The Truth About Timelines: When to Start Shopping for Your Wedding Dress
When you’re planning a wedding, it can feel like juggling a hundred spinning plates—venue, photographer, florist, and more. But if there’s one piece of advice we share with nearly every bride who walks through our doors, it’s this: timing is everything when it comes to finding your dress.
We often hear, “Is it too early to start shopping?” or “I’ve got loads of time, don’t I?” But the truth is, shopping early really makes all the difference—not just for peace of mind, but for getting the dress you truly want.
12–18 Months Before the Big Day: The Ideal Window
We always recommend starting your dress search 12 to 18 months before your wedding. Why so early? Because most of our bridal gowns are made to order. That means your dress is handcrafted just for you—and that process takes time.
From the moment you say “yes” to the dress, it can take 6 to 9 months for it to arrive in-store. Then you need to factor in alterations, which usually take another 6 to 8 weeks. It might seem far away, but time flies—and by shopping early, you’re giving yourself the luxury of choice, a stress-free timeline, and the chance to enjoy the experience fully.
What If You’re On a Tighter Timeline?
Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Plenty of brides come to us with just a few months to spare. We offer a great range of quick-delivery dresses (often available for an extra fee), as well as off-the-rack and ready-to-wear gowns.
So if your timeline is tight, don’t panic. Come in for a chat and we’ll do our best to help make your dream dress happen.
Before You Visit: What to Know
When booking your appointment, we always recommend doing it early—especially if you already know your venue or season. That will help guide your dress selection. A November wedding? You might want something dramatic and warm. A summer garden ceremony? Lightweight, floaty styles could be your best friend.
We also recommend bringing your bridal party with you for the first appointment—especially the people whose opinions matter most. It helps to stay focused on your vision.
The Alterations Timeline
Yes, your dress will likely need a few tweaks. That’s where your fittings come in! You’ll usually have two or three, starting around 10–12 weeks before the wedding. This is when the gown is tailored to perfection—adjusting the straps, shaping the bodice, adding detail—whatever it needs to feel like it was made just for you.
We work with talented local seamstresses who will make sure everything from your hemline to your neckline (and your underwear!) is flawless.
One Less Thing to Worry About
Planning a wedding comes with plenty of stress, but your dress shouldn’t be one of them. This is one of the most joyful parts of the journey. When you shop early, you get to enjoy that buzz without the pressure of a looming deadline.
So grab your calendar, book that appointment, pop some Prosecco—and let’s find the one.
📍 Bridal Elegance
18 Main Street, Larne, BT40 1SS
📞 028 2832 9402
🌐 www.bridalelegance-boutique.co.uk
