What to Expect When Shopping for Your Gown

Shopping for your gown is one of the true delights in planning your wedding. Nevertheless, most brides get a rude awakening when they first step into a bridal shop. Just knowing what to expect will help make the experience an enjoyable one�.

Most shops do not let you browse through their gowns. Instead, you'll be waited on (hand and foot!) by your own private saleswoman. At first, yu might think that you aren't getting to see the gowns you want - but the reality is that you'll be saved the tiresome chore of sorting through hundreds of dresses. The sales staff knows their merchandise very well, so they'll bring you gowns that fit what you're looking for.

Some shops will allow you to browse through their gowns; however, you will almost always have the benefit of a saleswoman's assistance. Take advantage of her expertise and knowledge by communicating to her what you like. (See Gown Shopping 101: Ten Tips From the Pros).

Every shop gives you your own private dressing room - though "private" is really a misnomer. The saleswoman is always there (to help you put on the gown� it's impossible to do so yourself). Sometimes, your mom and friends who came with you will be squeezed into the room too. More often, they will be waiting outside for you to model each gown, but the point is the same: you don't have much privacy (so leave the lacy red undies at home) and you don't have much room - so leave the little nieces and nephews at home too� though preferably not with

 the lingerie!

Some shops rip the labels out of the gowns, so that you will not know who designer's name. This is to prohibit you from ordering it from a discount retailer after they have spent so much time in helping you find the right gown. Most forbid photographs, so that you cannot have the gown copied by a dressmaker. While this is immensely frustrating for the bride who lives far away from her mom or maid of honor, it's best to respect the rules. If you're worried about not remembering the dress the next time you come back, don't worry: your saleswoman will write down the gown and keep it on file - and she'll have it waiting for you to try on again when you return.

Last but not least, you should not expect to find your gown right away. For this reason, you should start shopping early. Many brides shop for a few months before they find "the one." Don't worry, though - as long as you are learning what looks best on you and what styles you like, you'll find it soon enough!