New York Wedding Photographer and Videographer

How NOT to buy a wedding dress....

What Not to Do When Choosing Your Wedding Dress: 5 Essential Tips

Finding the perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day, but it can also be overwhelming. With so many styles, fabrics, and designers to choose from, it's easy to make a few missteps along the way. To help you avoid common mistakes, here are five things not to do when choosing your wedding dress.

1. Don’t Start Shopping Without a Budget

It’s easy to fall in love with a gown that’s way outside your price range, only to feel disappointed when you realize it’s not an option. Before stepping into a bridal boutique, determine your budget, including alterations and accessories. Communicating your budget upfront helps your consultant find options that you’ll love without the heartbreak.

2. Don’t Bring Too Many Opinions

While it’s great to have support from family and friends, bringing too many people to your bridal appointment can lead to conflicting opinions and unnecessary stress. Limit your entourage to a small group of trusted loved ones who understand your vision and will give constructive feedback.

We had one client once tell us that she went ALONE to buy her dress. Found exactly what she wanted and THEN brought her crew. The dress shop was onboard with her plan and it worked out perfectly.

3. Don’t Ignore Comfort

A stunning gown that makes you feel uncomfortable isn’t worth it. You’ll be in your dress for hours, so consider how it feels when sitting, walking, and dancing. Avoid overly tight or restrictive dresses, and make sure you can move with ease.

Might we suggest a 2nd dress? Sounds bougie. However we find most people are kinda over the big dress by dance floor time. Get something still fancy, but less overwhelming. Take a 15 min. break, touch up make up, hair and change into something fresh to PARTY in.

4. Don’t Wait Too Long to Order

Wedding dresses can take months to arrive, and alterations may require additional time. Waiting too long to make a decision can leave you with limited choices or rush fees. Ideally, start shopping at least 8-12 months before your wedding to ensure enough time for fittings and customizations.

5. Don’t Dismiss Other Styles Too Quickly

You might have your heart set on a specific silhouette, but be open to trying different styles. Many brides end up loving a dress they never expected to choose. Trust your bridal consultant—they have experience and can help guide you toward a gown that flatters your body type.

Choosing your wedding dress should be an enjoyable and memorable experience. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll have a smoother, more enjoyable shopping journey and walk down the aisle feeling confident and beautiful. Happy dress shopping!

A list of some shops in and nearby Rochester, NY:

1. Chic & Sassy Bridal

  • Location: 540 Fairport Rd Suite 1, East Rochester, NY 14445

  • Description: Offers a wide range of bridal gowns, bridesmaids dresses, and accessories. Known for its personalized service and trendy selections.

2. David's Bridal

  • Location: 3349 Monroe Ave, Rochester, NY 14618

  • Description: One of the largest bridal chains in the U.S., providing a wide selection of dresses in various styles and price points.

3. The Bridal Studio

  • Location: 11 S Main St, Pittsford, NY 14534

  • Description: Specializes in designer gowns with a focus on high-end couture bridal fashion. Offers a personalized experience.

4. Jovani Bridal

  • Location: 2855 Monroe Ave Suite 4, Rochester, NY 14618

  • Description: Known for its luxurious bridal gowns and formalwear. They carry a range of styles, from classic to more modern, fashion-forward designs.

5. Charming Charlie Bridal

  • Location: 1242 Jefferson Rd, Rochester, NY 14623

  • Description: Known for its variety of bridal accessories, this boutique also offers bridal gowns for every taste and budget.

6. Sophie’s Bridal

  • Location: 2017 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14618

  • Description: This boutique offers a curated collection of bridal gowns and accessories. The shop prides itself on personalized, attentive customer service.

7. Lori’s Bridal Boutique

  • Location: 5851 Big Tree Rd, Lakeville, NY 14480

  • Description: Lori’s Bridal Boutique is a family-owned shop known for its extensive range of bridal gowns and professional fitting services.

8. The Wedding Dress Shop

  • Location: 88 S Clinton Ave Suite 100, Rochester, NY 14604

  • Description: Offers a selection of wedding dresses and accessories. Known for its exceptional customer service and a large variety of styles.

9. All Brides Beautiful

  • Location: 5248 W Genesee St, Camillus, NY 13031 (about 1 hour from Rochester)

  • Description: While not directly in Rochester, it offers a wonderful selection of bridal gowns and provides a high-quality, boutique experience.

10. Bridal Accents Couture

  • Location: 445 E Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14620

  • Description: Specializes in custom bridal gowns, along with a great selection of top designer dresses.

11. Heart to Heart Bridal

  • Location: 3320 Monroe Ave, Rochester, NY 14618

  • Description: Known for its exceptional selection of designer bridal gowns and personalized customer service. Heart to Heart Bridal offers a curated collection of elegant, high-end dresses for brides who want a unique and luxurious experience.

12. Two Hearts Bridal

  • Location: 5053 W Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14623

  • Description: Specializes in elegant and luxury bridal gowns. Two Hearts Bridal offers a wide variety of upscale wedding dresses, focusing on custom fittings and providing brides with a personalized, boutique shopping experience.

Don’t forget places like Roc Vintage or The Bridal Closet for gently used and unique vintage-inspired gowns!

Chelse Thompson