Congrats on your recent engagement! We know planning your wedding can get a bit overwhelming and you might not know where to start. Let us help break down the wedding timeline for you and your wedding party. As a Justin Alexander retailer, we recommend starting your wedding dress shopping experience four to six months before the wedding date. It is best to start early in case of any production or shipping delays. In preparation of your bridal appointment you may want to bring any shape wear and appropriate undergarments. Also save any photos of styles and silhouettes you would like to try-on to show to your bridal stylist. Most importantly, invite any family members or close friends you would enjoy celebrating your eyes to the dress moment with! Be sure to ask the bridal boutique the limit on guests prior to your appointment.
You said yes to your dream dress! Take this moment to celebrate with loved ones. Once you are notified of your wedding dress arrival, make an appointment for your first fitting. When going to your fittings be sure to bring/wear the appropriate undergarments and shoes that you plan on wearing the day of the wedding. Brides should start alterations eight weeks before the wedding. When choosing a seamstress be sure to inquire on their experience with wedding gowns. Qualified seamstresses should be acquainted with altering intricate laces and beading your wedding gown may have. Most bridal stores have local referrals that many of their past brides recommend.
Any bridal accessories you plan on wearing, such as veils, hair pieces, and jewelry, should be ordered and purchased two to four months ahead of the wedding. When it comes to the bridal party, bridesmaids dresses should be ordered four months before the wedding. The bride should set an appointment with their bridesmaids to choose their gowns and have their measurements taken. Those bridesmaids that can not make the appointment should follow up with their measurements as soon as possible. Alterations should begin four to six weeks prior to the big day. This timeline is also suitable for flower girl and mother of the bride/groom dresses.
As for tuxedo/suit fittings for the groom, he should start off by scheduling an appointment where he can choose a couple sample jackets to try-on to see what best suits his style and the wedding colors. Once the groom and groomsmen's attire are chosen, the guys can schedule a time to get everyones measurements taken for an accurate fitting. This should all take place four to six weeks before the wedding. Once the garments arrive (usually up to 2 weeks before) it is crucial to try everything on, even the shoes! Do not wait until the last minute for the groom/groomsmen to go in for their last fitting. Allow at least a week before in case any exchanges need to be made!
From the initial bridal appointment to the last suit fitting, a bridal stylist will be able to help put your mind at ease, ensuring everything arrives on time and fits perfectly!
Photo by Paige Engel Photography