One of the first questions many brides have after getting engaged is when they should start shopping for their wedding dress. While every wedding timeline is different, giving yourself enough time to explore your options, order your gown and complete alterations can make the process much easier.
For most brides, we recommend beginning your wedding dress search 9 to 12 months before your wedding. This gives you time to explore different designers, silhouettes and styles without feeling rushed. At Whittington Bridal, our experienced stylists can also help you navigate your options based on your wedding date, personal style and timeline.
Here's what to know about wedding dress shopping at different points before your wedding day!
9-12 Months Before Your Wedding
Starting your search 9 to 12 months before your wedding gives you the most flexibility. Many wedding gowns are made to order, and production can take several months before your gown arrives at the boutique.
Eva Lendel
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At Whittington Bridal, gowns typically take 5-8 months to arrive after ordering, followed by approximately 8-12 weeks for alterations. Starting early gives you time to explore different designers, try a variety of styles and make your decision without unnecessary pressure.
This timeframe also leaves room for the fittings and alterations that happen once your gown arrives, helping you approach your wedding day with your dress ready and properly fitted. |
6-8 Months Before Your Wedding
Six to eight months before your wedding is still a good time to begin your dress search, but your wedding date becomes an especially important part of the conversation. Depending on the designer and gown you choose, your ordering timeline may be more limited.
When you book your appointment, be sure to share your wedding date with your stylist. They'll be able to help you explore designers and gowns while keeping your timeline in mind.
If you're shopping during this window, it's still important to allow time for your gown to arrive and for alterations afterward. Shopping as soon as possible within this window gives your stylist more options to work with.
4-5 Months Before Your Wedding
If your wedding is four or five months away, you can still explore your options, but your timeline is now more time-sensitive. Some gowns may not be able to be ordered and completed within your timeframe, depending on the designer and gown.
Corinthian James
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Rather than assuming which options will work, contact Whittington Bridal as soon as possible and let our team know your wedding date. Your stylist can help determine which designers, gowns and ordering options can realistically work within your timeline.
The sooner you reach out, the more information your stylist has to work with when helping you find a gown for your wedding date. |
Less Than 4 Months Before Your Wedding
A wedding that's only a few months away doesn't mean you can't find a gown you love, but it does require a more immediate approach. At this point, your wedding date will play a major role in determining which gowns and ordering options may be available to you.
If you're working with a short timeline, contact Whittington Bridal before your appointment so our team can discuss your wedding date and help determine what options may realistically work. Depending on your timeline, designer availability and the gown you choose, different options may be available.
Don't wait to start the conversation. The sooner you contact the boutique, the sooner your stylist can help you understand your options and create a realistic plan for your dress.
When Should You Book Your Bridal Appointment?
Once you know your wedding date, there's no reason to wait to schedule your first bridal appointment. Booking early gives you the most flexibility and allows your stylist to take your timeline into consideration from the beginning.
Essense of Australia
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At Whittington Bridal, you'll have a private 90-minute appointment to explore our curated collection of designer wedding gowns with the guidance of an experienced stylist. You don't need to know your exact silhouette or have your entire bridal look figured out before you arrive.
Your stylist will learn about your wedding plans, personal style and what you're hoping to find, then help you explore gowns that make sense for you. You may discover that a gown you never expected to love becomes one of your favorites once you try it on. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to my first wedding dress appointment?
Bring any inspiration you'd like to share with your stylist, including photos or a wishlist of gowns you're interested in trying. Nude or seamless underwear is also a good choice for your appointment. You don't need to have every detail figured out before you arrive - your stylist can help you explore the collection and discover what you love.
How many people should I bring to my bridal appointment?
We recommend bringing a small, supportive group of approximately three to four guests. Keeping your group intimate allows you to hear the opinions of the people you trust while keeping your own reaction to each gown at the center of the appointment.
What is the price range of wedding dresses at Whittington Bridal?
Wedding gowns at Whittington Bridal range approximately from $1,500 to $7,000, with the average gown price around $2,800. Sharing your budget with your stylist at the beginning of your appointment helps them focus on gowns that fit both your style and budget.
How long does a bridal appointment last?
Bridal appointments at Whittington Bridal are 90 minutes. This gives you dedicated time to meet with your stylist, explore the curated collection and try on gowns without feeling rushed.
What if my wedding is less than four months away?
Shorter timelines are absolutely possible, but your options will depend on your wedding date, the designer, the gown and available ordering options. Contact Whittington Bridal as soon as possible so our team can help determine which options can realistically work for your date.
Ready to Start Wedding Dress Shopping?
For most brides, beginning the search 9-12 months before the wedding provides the most flexibility to explore different designers, silhouettes and styles, order a gown and complete alterations. But if your wedding is sooner, don't assume you've missed your window.
Whittington Bridal's experienced stylists can help you understand your options based on your wedding date and timeline. The sooner you reach out, the more time you'll have to determine which gowns and ordering options may work for you.
Ready to start exploring? Book your appointment at Whittington Bridal and let our stylists help you find a gown that's right for your wedding day.