Wedding Dress Shopping 101: What to Expect at Your Bridal Appointment

You're engaged! Yay! Now it's time to get down to business. Planning and preparing for a wedding can be a confusing process, and, for most brides, uncharted territory. Maybe you're ready to find the dress of your dreams, but you're not quite sure how the process works. Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting moments of the bridal journey, but if you’re not sure what to expect, it can also feel a little overwhelming. Girl, we're here to help. Here's everything you need to know to prepare for your upcoming bridal appointment.

1. Schedule Your Appointment in Advance

Here at Mimi's Bridal, we operate by appointment to ensure each bride receives personalized attention. Booking in advance allows you to secure a dedicated stylist who will guide you through the process and help you find a dress that matches your vision. We kindly ask that brides schedule an appointment when they are truly ready to find their dream dress, as our team is dedicated to providing the best experience for those prepared to make a purchase.

2. Know Your Budget

Before you step into a bridal boutique, have a clear idea of how much you’re comfortable spending on your wedding dress. Keep in mind that shipping fees, alterations, and accessories can add to the overall cost. Here at our shop in Kalispell, Montana, our designer wedding gowns range from $1,200-$3,400. We also have recently discontinued sample dresses which are marked down and are perfect for lower budgets or shorter time frames. Your stylist will help you find stunning options within your price range.

3. Do Some Research, but Keep an Open Mind

It’s great to come in with inspiration—bring photos of dresses you love or save images on your phone. However, don’t be afraid to try on different styles! Many brides fall in love with a gown they never expected to choose. This is one of the key bridal dress fitting tips: trust your stylist’s expertise and be open to exploring new silhouettes.

4. Wear the Right Undergarments

We ask that our brides come prepared with underwear, and recommend a nude color. As all of our dresses are lined with cups, you don't need to worry about the right bra.

5. Bring a Small, Supportive Entourage

While it’s tempting to bring all your loved ones, too many opinions can make the decision more difficult. Choose a few trusted friends or family members who understand your style and will support your vision. Remember, this day is for you! While your loved ones might have their own vision of what they'd love to see you in, it's important that your entourage is committed to bringing your vision to life.

6. Expect to Try on Multiple Dresses

Finding “the one” usually takes some trial and error. You might love the first dress you try, or it might take a few rounds of dresses to discover your favorite. Be patient and enjoy the experience!

7. Be Ready to Say Yes!

If you find a dress you adore, don’t be afraid to say yes! We know that it can feel scary to make such a huge decision, but have found that taking time to think about things can often leave a bride feeling more confused, because she's lost that special feeling she had while she was in the dress. It's also important to keep in mind that bridal gowns often have long lead times for ordering, and you'll also need to plan time for alterations, so deciding sooner can reduce stress later. Learning how to find the perfect wedding gown means trusting your instincts and knowing when you've found the right dress.

8. Enjoy the Experience

This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Celebrate every moment, take pictures, and embrace the magic of finding your dream dress. Here at Mimi's, brides have the option to upgrade their bridal experience by adding on champagne, sweet treats, and more!

Mimi's Bridal, Northern Montana's premiere designer wedding gown boutique, is here to make your wedding dress shopping journey fun, stress-free, and unforgettable. Book your appointment today and let’s find the dress that makes you feel like a bride!