Currently booking 2026 weddings & events | Limited space available for 2025

Wedding Dress Shopping 101

Wedding Dress

shopping 101

Although we have a wealth of advice to give brides on the subject of wedding dress shopping, we’re going  to cover key points in this post: THE DO’S and DONT’S.

1. DO Make an appointment

I know, what a concept! Making an appointment  will ensure you arrive at the store and have a consultant ready to help and a fitting room available. Having a consultant help you navigate the store is so important. Not only will it save you time, but they know the inventory and price points. If possible, try and book your appointment for a weekday evening vs. a Saturday. Trust us, your experience will be much more enjoyable. For all you brides shopping around Winnipeg, we recommend the one on one consultant service Bliss Bridal Boutique offers (by appointment only, of course)

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”]

wedding dress
Dress from Kleinfeld Bridal (Samba Joy Photography)

2. Don’t bring everyone you know

We understand that your wedding dress is important to you, and you want it to be perfect. Having a large group won’t make your hunt any easier, if anything, it can work against you. We recommend a group of 4 or less. Having an entourage will lead to too many opinions and may steer you away from what you really want. Stay true to the style you want, and don’t let a strong opinion get in the way.

3. DO Give yourself time

A wedding dress can take 3 – 6 months to order depending on the store and the designer, plus 4 – 8 weeks for alterations.  This is a standard amount of time across the board, so don’t say we didn’t warn you. Check out The Knot for your Wedding Dress Shopping Countdown.

[/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”]

wedding dress
Dress from Bliss Bridal (Maverick and Me Photography)

4. Don’t try on too many dresses

Do your research before hitting the bridal shops. Know your wedding dress style and bring pictures to show consultants; this will help keep the appointment on track. When you find a wedding dress and you think it’s the one, stop! Have the consultant write down the style number and leave… If it’s still on your mind for days to come, then you know its the one.

[/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”]

wedding dress
Photo by Ariana Tennyson

5. DO stick to the budget…no matter what!

When choosing your budget, keep in mind that this should include your veil, jewelry, undergarments, shoes and alterations. All these things add up, and are often overlooked. A few other ways to save a buck are to keep your eye open for trunk shows and discontinued designs. We also recommend contacting dress shops in your area and ask to be on their mailing list, preventing you from missing a sale.

I hope you find these tips helpful when shopping for your dream dress!

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Elegant woman in professional attire sitting on a cream-colored sofa in a modern, stylish setting for Melanie Parent Events in Winnipeg.
Elegant wedding reception setup with floral centerpieces and soft lighting at Melanie Parent Events in Winnipeg.

Named Top 3 Planners in Winnipeg, Melanie Parent Events is one of the leading experts in the wedding industry. Having done weddings and events with budgets of $25,000 – $100,000 and over 100 five-star google reviews Melanie and her team have the knowledge, experience and professional approach necessary to make your event a reality.

Melanie is continuously growing, learning and expanding her skills and vision. If you would like to see how she can assist with your event, please get in touch!

CATEGORIES