Shopping for the perfect wedding dress is an important part of any bride’s planning process. Luckily, the Quad Cities offer plenty of options when it comes to finding that special gown! From budget-friendly boutiques to designer chains, this guide has all the information you need to find your dream wedding dress.

Research Your Options in the Quad Cities

One of the first steps to finding the perfect wedding dress is doing your homework on what is available. To get started, research local bridal stores, visit online reviews to see which boutiques may be a good fit for you, and take note of designers whose styles you like best.

Set a Preliminary Budget for Your Dress

In order to narrow down your specific style selection, it’s best to set a preliminary budget for your dress. Consider factors such as the type of fabric, embellishments and construction you’d like, then use this knowledge to make sure you don’t overspend on a dress that is beyond your budget. This will help you focus on styles within your price range and save time as you shop.

Schedule Appointments at Multiple Bridal Salons and Boutiques

Make a list of the boutiques and salons that you want to visit and start booking appointments. Read customer reviews prior to setting an appointment with each location to ensure you’re selecting a store whose offerings fit your style and budget, can handle any special requests, and also provides an enjoyable experience for you and your guests. Keeping these elements top of mind throughout your research will help ensure that you find “the one!”

Think About How You Want to Accessorize

As you’re shopping for your perfect wedding dress, consider the accessories you’ll want to add to bring the look together. Consider pieces like a veil, hairpiece, sash, jewelry, and even a cape or shrug for added warmth and drama. Accessories can also help show off the neckline of your gown, draw attention to features that make it unique from others, and emphasize any special details. If you have experiences in this area or know someone who’s familiar with styling brides, get their opinion before making a commitment to an accessory purchase.

Be Thoughtful about Alterations and Fittings

Alterations are an important part of getting your wedding dress to fit perfectly. Plan to get professionally measured for the dress and expect to try it on with your veil, shoes, and other accessories. Try scheduling fittings at least six months before the big day, so there is plenty of time for making necessary adjustments and alterations. And don’t skip the bustle!