EIS FOR ENTOURAGE “Take a couple of valued people with you to your appointment, those you can’t picture making such an important decision without,” Cathy recommends. “No more than three or four though or you’ll be overwhelmed with too many opinions!” Sarah Hackett from Rookery Bridal (www.rookerybridal.co.uk) is in agreement: "While it's tempting to bring lots of people, bear in mind that you'll have to be able to deal with their initial reactions. This can be uplifting, but it can equally be the opposite. Having a trusted, smaller group will mean you can seek their input and advice more calmly and develop a deeper understanding of what you're looking for. Be prepared to stand up for what you want. It's all too easy to become influenced by others and you need to feel your choice is the one for you." A Rock that frock The ultimate A-Z guide to wedding-dress shopping IS FOR ALTERATIONS “With most designers taking six months to make and deliver their gowns, you also need to factor in time for alterations once it arrives. After all, it’s not something you want to rush!” says director of Bath’s Krystle Brides (www. krystlebrides.co.uk) Krystle Worgan. So don’t dilly dally! Once you’ve ordered your dream dress you’ll need to start looking for a seamstress. Even though you’ve ordered your size, chances are it’ll still need a little tweak as gowns fit everyone differently. BIS FOR BODY BEAUTIFUL Everyone, without exception, deserves to feel beautiful on their wedding day. We all have concerns out about our bodies, but remember there’ll be something stunning out there just for you. Dress for your gorgeous shape making sure you're confident and comfortable, and you can’t go wrong. Now recognising the true average dress size in the UK, more boutiques are holding a much wider range of sample sizes. Check out www. izzistocktonbridal.co.uk, which has gowns from size 8 to 30 in store. Also, look out for designers such as Romantica of Devon and True Bride. CIS FOR CATWALK Our top tip for newly-engaged couples is to hit the wedding shows asap. It’s the best way to meet suppliers and assemble your W-day team. While you’re there, be sure to experience a catwalk show. It’ll help you find inspiration from silhouettes, to fabrics and designers; as well as guiding you towards a boutique you might want to make an appointment with. FIS FOR FABRIC The fabric you opt for will largely be governed by the style you’ve fallen in love with. Gorgeous floaty chiffon and tulle are delicate, lightweight materials often found in soft, effortless, boho-chic gowns – ideal for summer nuptials. Sparkle tulles in particular have been experiencing a heyday. Meanwhile, classic satin with a modern twist too is very much en vogue when it comes to beautifully to structured shapes and clean lines. Ferna by Justin Alexander, available at Rookery Bridal 14 & Sixpence IS FOR DIARY Cathy Keen, owner of 14 & Sixpence (www.14andsixpence.co.uk) in Illminster says, “Around one year before the big day (eight to 12 months minimum), book a couple of appointments at local boutiques. You may want to research a little first, so look into silhouettes you’re drawn to and the look you want to achieve before saving some images to your phone to take with you. You’ll know when you’re getting close to finding the one, and we have a couple of questions to ask to make sure!” Krystle says, “When you book an appointment with us, you’ll have your own private fitting room for an hour-and-a-half, a bridal stylist to guide and assist you, as well as enough seating for three guests to join you. Our priority is that you feel completely comfortable during your appointment, so we’ll ask you about your venue, your style preferences, and your budget so that we can work with you to find the one. You don’t need to bring anything along with you, although we do recommend that you wear nude underwear.” D Kyrstle Brides BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 59
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