7 Quick Tips for Bridal Gown Shopping

Careful planning is essential for your wedding preparations to go smoothly. Headaches and stress does not exactly make a blushing, beaming bride. You may have heard of rumors about otherwise placid females morphing into bridezillas, especially when it comes to picking a wedding gown. If you are keen NOT to be one of them, then review these tips:

1. Envision yourself on your big day. What do you see yourself wearing? Take into account the circumstances, your style. Are you going to have a beach wedding or a garden wedding? Or are you going to have a traditional church wedding? Consider the season; a wrap, strapless, skinny straps, or sleeves.

2. Decide on your budget. Formulate a general price range so you can be flexible enough in choosing from the wide variety of designs.

3. Do some homework. Browse the internet, books, magazines -- leaf through them and figure out which styles flatter you and which ones don't, which style you would be comfortable in. Narrow down your options and find the designs which suit your personality best, but do keep an open mind.

4. Research bridal salon locations, customer reviews, recommendations and price range -- these are the vital issues you have to deal with. Do some research on the internet. You might be tempted to order a dress from Ebay on the cheap, or from some shop across the country, but why take a chance on such an important decision. Look for shops near your area. Ask friends and relatives for recommendations.

5. Call the shops you've selected. Find out more about the store and the kind of goods it offers. It's best to make an appointment so you'll have time to browse and try on gowns. Learn about their staff through these phone conversations, as well.

6. Be practical. You may want to look like a princess on your wedding day, but surely you don't want to go broke doing so. Set a budget, set a design and find a dress that fits into both. Keep your options open as you do not need to stick to one bridal shop. Look for special sales, trunk shows, sample sales and end of season discounts. Go explore until you find the perfect one.

7. Keep open minded. Good full service bridal salon consultants and owners know their gowns, prices, and styles. They might suggest a designer or style you have not considered, that although may not look like much on the hanger, may look beautiful on you. Be flexible and give it a try!

Above all, have fun shopping for your gown. Know that it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so make the most of it. Know what you want, go for what you want. It is your wedding after all.

C is for...Cake & Confections

What's a wedding without delicious wedding cake! Many brides and grooms are expressing their style in theme and color on wedding cakes, even the old traditional stacked cake has taken on a new twist. It's called "personality!"
Dessert buffets can feature cupcakes with a variety of flavors. Provide a cute cake box so they are easy for guests to take home at the end of the night.

Holiday Giving!

It's that time of year and I'm sure you don't have to be reminded of those who are having problems making it during this holiday season. We always have a soft spot for children and this year we would like to remind you to consider giving a toy for tots! Between now and December 15th, two area wedding professionals are collecting Toys for Tots. Please feel free to drop your toys at:
Bancroft Bridals
225 Springfield Street, Agawam, MA
or
Durocher Florist
184 Union Street, West Springfield, MA

You would be helping make a child's holiday brighter!
Thank you!