In the midst of the sometimes hectic process of preparing for every detail to come on your wedding day, a trip to the bridal salon can be a welcome retreat. Salons are designed specifically to help you find the special dress that's simply perfect for the occasion of a lifetime. But if you've never set foot in one before, you may not know just what to expect.
While bridal salons vary from one establishment to the next, you can be certain to expect a lot of personal attention by professionals whose job it is to help you find that perfect bridal gown. Unlike flipping through magazines or web pages, salons let you actually see, touch and try on potential candidates. Use this quick overview to learn just what you should have ready before plunging into the bridal salon experience.
Make an Appointment
At most bridal salons, you can expect to enjoy the attention of a dedicated professional for the length of your visit and beyond. This makes it very important for you to schedule your trip well ahead of time. When you set up your appointment, you'll likely be asked a few questions about your upcoming wedding and the style you had in mind for it.
Salon specialists can help you decide on any number of details for your wedding, from the basics to the tiniest details, but the main focus is on finding your gown and accessories. In addition to style consultants and thousands of dresses, salons offer the expertise of professional tailors and seamstresses who can discuss the limits of alterations and personalization as well as talk you through catalogs and even mock up specific gowns with pins to give you an idea of what to expect.
Learn About Basic Gown Cuts
Before visiting the salon, it's a good idea to learn the basics of wedding gown styles and cuts. Although the consultants available will be able to teach you all you'll need to know, having a basic goal in mind will help your appointment go as quickly as possible, and find you trying on dresses sooner rather than later.
One detail in particular you should try to have in mind as you arrive for your visit is silhouette. This simply refers to the general shape of the dress itself and has different implications for varying body shapes and sizes. While the traditional ball gown, with its fitted bodice and dramatically flowing large skirt, is the most common request for ceremonies, lots of other cuts can lend a contemporary touch while flattering your figure to the fullest extent.
Other common silhouettes for wedding dresses include the A-line, which is characterized by a bodice that is fitted at the neckline, but flares out gracefully as it extends to the floor. On the other hand, the empire (a French term pronounced ahm-peer) cut features an intentionally high waist line with a flared skirt below. Both of these styles are flattering to fuller figures.
Research Popular Styles
Another way to prepare for your bridal consultation and dress viewing is by checking out several bridal magazines, catalogs and websites before arriving. This can help you get an idea for what fashions are most popular currently while letting you see what different styles look like in general. As you do your research, pay attention to small details like length, neck line and waist line, since they can help you find the right dress for you.
In addition to the dress itself, the bridal salon is the perfect place to discover options for accessories and more. Your personal consultant can help you determine whether you want a veil or not, for instance, letting you see how a number of styles and shapes can augment your gown once it has been chosen. The experts at a salon will be able to offer excellent advice about jewelry, makeup and hair styles as well.
Bring a Trusted Friend
Although your final decision on a wedding gown should be yours, the process of picking one out can be a long one. Salons usually understand the support a few trusted friends can provide as you pick out a dress, so don't hesitate to bring along a family member or close confidant when you head out for your appointment.
The bridal salon is one of the most essential resources on that extended trip down the aisle, which actually begins the moment you get engaged. With its bustling staff who can help you make that final decision and thousands of beautiful dresses at your behest, only a few trips to a great salon will help you narrow your options before you eventually zero on the gown of a lifetime. Take some time to get some bridal gown basics under your belt and make your appointment today!
