We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again – bringing a big group to the salon is a gown shopping don’t! Enlist one or two of your closest pals to help you start your search. This way you can find the gown of your dreams and not feel pressured by others’ opinions.

Hidden costs add up

Remember, your wedding gown budget doesn’t just include the dress. Your veil or headpiece and alterations will also add to your bottom line. Be sure to factor in these costs before you give the salesperson your final gown-shopping budget.

Underwear is optional

Before you head into your appointment sans underwear, read this: Most bridal shops have a few different types of bras in the fitting room. If you have a favourite strapless style or plan on wearing a particular body shaper, go ahead and bring it. You’ll ultimately need your gown-specific undergarments for your first fitting but not your initial appointment.

Salons take requests

Just because a bridal salon carries your favourite designer, that doesn’t mean it’ll have the exact wedding dress you’ve been dying to try on. If you phone in advance and request a specific style, chances are that a salon staff member will able to call for a sample of that gown especially for you.

Don’t get discouraged

There are hundreds of bridal designers out there with literally thousands of designs – which makes the odds of your finding a fantastic gown, well pretty good. We know that coming up empty handed on your first trip can be a letdown, but don’t give up. You will find ‘the one.’

Shop for the body you have now

No matter what your shape, knowing your body shape – pear, full, thin, petite – is the first step in finding the right dress. Even if you’re planning on dropping a couple of kilos before your wedding, your frame isn’t going to completely change because you’ve swapped biscuits for carrots.

Always book an appointment

While you may get lucky and snag a salesperson just by walking in, scheduling an appointment is the only way to ensure that you’ll get a full hour of undivided attention.

It’s okay to pick favourites

To help guarantee your gown shopping experience goes smoothly, ask a salon staff member when you call to book your appointment if she can suggest a favourite saleswoman. Or get recommendations from friends, and request a saleswoman by name.