When Should You Start Shopping for Your Wedding Dress?
Just got engaged and excited to start shopping for your wedding dress? At Bridal Gown Studio Orlando, we recommend booking your bridal appointment 6-12 months before your wedding date. This timeline gives you plenty of time to order your gown, account for production time, and complete alterations.
If your wedding date is approaching faster than expected, don’t worry! We offer rush orders on bridal gowns to get your dress here quickly. There are also new “off-the-rack” sample dresses in sizes 10 -24 available immediately in the store. Share your wedding date with your bridal stylist so they can guide you to gowns that fit your current timeline.
For brides shopping for wedding dresses in Orlando, here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate from your first appointment to your final fitting.
Book Your Bridal Appointment (6-12 Months Before)
You don’t need to have a specific vision when you first step into a bridal boutique. A handful of saved inspiration photos or Pinterest dream gowns, plus an idea of your wedding venue, is enough to kick off your journey. Our stylists are committed to guiding you through the discovery process and helping you decide how you want to feel in your dress.
Are you dreaming of something light for a garden ceremony, a fitted gown adorned with a dramatic train, or a flowy skirt perfect for dancing? Your stylist is here to turn those ideas into dresses you can experience in person. Before your appointment, establish a comfortable budget that leaves room for alterations, accessories, and any modifications you might consider. When comparing bridal shops in Orlando, ask about ordering timelines and whether your favorite styles can arrive in time for your big day.
Getting Married in Less Than 6 Months?
A shorter engagement doesn’t mean you have to compromise on finding a dress you adore! As a design house and bridal retailer, Bridal Gown Studio excels at getting your dress to you quickly and conveniently, so every bride gets the dress she wants. Book your appointment as soon as possible and share your wedding date so our stylists can guide you toward options that work for your timeframe.
The Appointment: She said Yes!
Give yourself the freedom to explore, but stay open to discovering your dress on your first visit. There’s no need to check off a set number of stores before saying "yes" to something you love. Many brides find their dream gown right away! When you know, you know!
Try on a variety of silhouettes, even if your inspiration photos appear similar. For instance, A-line wedding dresses and fit-and-flare wedding dresses can offer very different experiences. Take the time to sit, walk, and move in each gown to see what truly feels right.
After you find your gown, confirm its estimated arrival date, discuss any customization requests, and review the payment schedule before placing your order. We have payment plans available that align with your dress delivery.
Most of our wedding dresses are designed in-house and made to order, with standard production typically taking 4 to 6 months, depending on the level of customization. Your stylist will help you select gowns that fit your needs and work around your wedding date, and clarify whether you need a standard or rush order. If you want a custom wedding dress or significant design changes, ask about timing early on, as these may require a longer lead time.
Dress Production: Choose Your Accessories While Your Gown Is Being Made (4 Months Before)
Once you’ve selected your gown, it’s time to think about shoes, veils, and accessories. You don’t need to decide on everything right away, but make sure your shoes and planned undergarments are ready before your alterations begin. When your dress arrives, we’ll reach out to schedule your first fitting. Our stylists and alterations team will work with you throughout the process, so you’ll have a familiar team as your wedding day approaches.
First Fitting! (2 Months Before)
A stunning gown deserves an impeccable fit. Our master seamstress will handle your alterations in our studio, giving you personal attention at each fitting. From refining the bodice to adjusting the hem, these details ensure your dress feels secure, moves comfortably, and sits just right come wedding day.
Having your alterations done in-house means you won't have to find and coordinate with a separate seamstress. You can ask questions, discuss adjustments, and witness your bridal look come together with the team that helped you select it.
Alterations generally begin about 2 months before your wedding, and it’s common to have up to 3 fittings before you take your wedding gown home. At your bridal gown fitting, we’ll review the fit, length, and bustle needed to lift your train for the reception. Our team will schedule your fittings around your gown’s arrival and wedding date, with expedited options available if needed.
Enjoy Your Final Fitting!
Our in-house alterations team will schedule your final fitting based on the required adjustments. During this appointment, make sure the gown feels secure and that you can move comfortably in your wedding shoes. If your dress features a bustle, bring along someone who can assist you with it on the big day. Our alterations specialist will provide instructions on how to bustle your gown correctly for the wedding. We recommend taking a short video for reference later. Before you take your gown home, we’ll confirm steaming instructions, storage, and the best way to transport it. If you’re headed to a destination wedding, we’ll incorporate your departure date into the fitting and pickup schedule.