5 Great Wedding Dress Timeline Tips
If your loved one has just popped the question… Congratulations on your engagement! This exciting chapter marks the beginning of a new adventure, filled with joy, anticipation, and, of course, the thrilling task of finding your dream wedding dress. Allow me to help you by sharing my 5 Wedding Dress Timeline Tips:
Wedding Dress Timeline Tip #1: 12-18 Months Before the Wedding:
-
- Spark Your Inspiration: Start by immersing yourself in the world of bridal fashion. Browse through magazines, explore online galleries, and create an Insta folder or Pinterest board filled with gowns that catch your eye. This visual collection will help you define your personal style and guide you towards the perfect silhouette and design elements that you love.
- Know your Body Shape: Pinterest has some great tools to help you find your body shape and refer to my earlier blog here on how to choose your ideal silhouette based on your individual figure.
- Budget Wisely: Determine a realistic budget for your dress, including any alterations and accessories. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid unexpected costs.
- Boutique Scouting: Research bridal boutiques in your area, paying attention to the Designers/Labels they carry. Look for boutiques that align with your preferred style and budget. Schedule initial appointments with 3-5 boutiques to get a feel for their selection and the overall experience.
- Custom Bridal: If you’re opting to go the full custom route then be sure to research which Bridal Designers are in your area and best suited to your style/vibe/budget.
Wedding Dress Timeline Tip #2: 10-12 Months Before the Wedding:
-
- Embrace the Shopping Experience: Begin your dress shopping journey! Attend your initial appointments, trying on various styles and silhouettes. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try on unexpected options. You might be surprised by what you love!
- The “Yes!” Moment: When you find “the one,” trust your gut feeling. It should evoke a sense of joy, confidence, and excitement. If you do not get the YES Moment then be sure to reach out to your favourite Custom Designer or contact me to book in a call to discover if we can work together to create your most perfect wedding dress!
- Order Your Gown: Once you’ve made your selection, place your order and schedule your first alterations appointment.

Wedding Dress Timeline Tip #3: 3-4 Months Before the Wedding:
-
- Accessorise with Flair: Begin shopping for accessories like veils, jewellery, and shoes (which you’ll need for your first alteration appointment). Consider how these elements will complement your chosen gown and overall wedding aesthetic.
- Alterations and Accessories: Attend your first alterations fitting. Work closely with your seamstress to ensure the perfect fit and discuss any necessary adjustments. Normally this will include a bustle for your wedding dress train if you have one.
Wedding Dress Timeline Tip #4: 1-2 Months Before the Wedding:
-
- Final Fitting and Finishing Touches: Attend your final alterations fitting to ensure everything is flawless.
- Relax and Anticipate: Take a deep breath and savour the anticipation of your wedding day.
Wedding Dress Timeline Tip #5: How to achieve a Stress-Free Dress Shopping Experience:
- Limit Your Entourage: Bring only a few trusted loved ones whose opinions you truly value. Too many opinions can be overwhelming and distract you from finding a dress that truly resonates with you.
- Embrace Your Individuality: Don’t feel pressured to conform to trends or choose a dress that doesn’t feel authentic to you. Your wedding dress should be a reflection of your unique style and personality.
- Prioritize Comfort: Remember that you’ll be wearing your dress for several hours, so comfort is key. Choose a gown that allows you to move freely and dance the night away.
EXTRA Wedding Dress Timeline Tip: Navigating the Emotional Journey:
Wedding dress shopping can be an emotional rollercoaster. It’s important to remember that finding the perfect dress is a personal and unique experience. Don’t compare yourself to other brides or feel pressured to adhere to unrealistic expectations. Take your time, enjoy the process, and trust your instincts.
Ultimately, the most important aspect of your wedding dress is that it makes you feel confident, beautiful, and excited to walk down the aisle.
I hope these 5 Wedding Dress Timeline Tips provide valuable guidance as you embark on this exciting chapter of your wedding planning journey and please reach out via the links below if you’d love more help in saying “YES to the Dress”!
With love,
Jo x
Photo Credit: Natalie Jane Photography