FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Wedding Dress Shopping

Welcome to the start of an unforgettable journey! Shopping for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, and we’re here to make it a joyful and stress-free experience. But it also comes with a lot of questions. To make your experience seamless and stress-free, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions brides ask when searching for their dream gown.

Before You Shop For Your Dress

When should I start shopping for my gown?

We recommend starting your dress search at least 12 months before your wedding day. Since wedding dresses are custom orders made specifically for you, they can take up to six months to arrive. The earlier you start shopping, the less stress you'll have in the long run. Leaving it too late may mean incurring rush charges and additional stress to get everything ready in time.

If you have less than 12 months before your wedding, don’t worry! A Love Story Bridal, like many other boutiques, offers off-the-rack options, where you can purchase a sample gown in your size. Our expert alteration team can ensure that any necessary adjustments are made so that your dress fits perfectly before your big day.

How much do wedding dresses cost on average?

The price of a wedding dress varies depending on the designer, fabric, and details. On average, brides in the greater capital region spend between $2,500 and $4,500 on their dress. The quality of fabric and craftsmanship play a big role in pricing—luxury fabrics like silk, lace, and hand-beaded embellishments will cost more than synthetic alternatives. However, for brides looking to stay within a specific budget, there are beautiful gowns available in more cost-conscious fabric choices that offer a similar look for a lower price point.

It’s also important to factor in additional costs beyond the dress itself. Alterations are almost always necessary to ensure a perfect fit, and they can range from $700 - $1000 depending on complexity. Additionally, don’t forget to budget for accessories like veils, shoes, jewelry, and undergarments, which can add to the overall cost of your bridal look.

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, consider sample sales or off-the-rack gowns, where you can find designer dresses at discounted prices.

At the Bridal Boutique

How long does a bridal appointment last?

Most appointments last 60-90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to try on multiple styles and find your dream dress. To provide every bride with the same level of personalized attention and service, we kindly ask that all appointments start and end on time. Other brides are often scheduled after your appointment, and we want to ensure that everyone receives the same wonderful experience. If you feel like you need extra time, we are happy to schedule a follow-up appointment to revisit your favorite gowns!

How many dresses should I try on?

There’s no magic number! Some brides find ‘the one’ after trying just a few gowns, while others need to explore more options. However, trying on too many dresses or visiting too many stores can lead to dress fatigue, making the decision process more difficult. We understand the fear of missing out, but it's important to trust your instincts. If there's a dress—or dresses—that you can’t stop thinking about, those are the ones you should focus on. Your gut feeling is often the best guide when making the final decision!

What’s the difference between sample dresses and made-to-order gowns?

Bridal boutiques typically carry sample dresses from the designers they represent. When you visit, you’ll try on these samples to see how different styles look and feel before placing an order for a made-to-order gown that is customized in your correct size and color.

For brides with a wedding date that is very soon, A Love Story Bridal often has the option to sell sample gowns off the rack. This can be a great way to find a beautiful designer gown without waiting months for production.

Additionally, many bridal stores host sample sales once or twice a year, where sample dresses are offered at significant discounts. This is a fantastic opportunity to find a stunning dress at a reduced price while still receiving expert guidance from our consultants.

Ordering & Alterations

How long does it take to order a wedding dress?

Most wedding dresses take 6-9 months to arrive from the designer. While many brands do offer rush shipping, we highly recommend trying to avoid this when possible. Rush orders often come with additional costs and can add extra pressure to the process. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, we highly recommend shopping early so you can focus on the excitement of finding your dream dress without added worries! The best way to ensure a smooth process is to shop early and allow plenty of time for ordering, fittings, and alterations.

What happens if my dress arrives and doesn’t fit perfectly?

Although wedding dresses are custom-made to your measurements, almost every bride needs alterations. Expect to have 2-3 fittings to ensure your dress fits like a glove. When taking your measurements and ordering gowns, our expert team allows for natural changes in your body, ensuring that the gown can be easily taken in or let out if needed.

It’s very rare for a dress—even one measured carefully—not to require some level of alteration. We find that brides’ bodies can sometimes change significantly between the time of ordering and the dress’s arrival, which can impact the alterations needed. Whether it’s adjusting the fit in the bodice, hemming the length, or fine-tuning the details, our professional seamstresses will ensure that your gown fits you beautifully and comfortably on your big day.

How much do alterations cost?

Alteration costs vary but typically range between $700 and $1000, depending on the complexity of the adjustments. While alterations may seem like an added expense, they are a crucial part of ensuring your dress fits perfectly. The skill, time, and precision required to perform exceptional alterations are significant, as expert seamstresses carefully adjust delicate fabrics and intricate details to create a flawless fit tailored just for you.

Can I customize my wedding dress?

Customization is available at some bridal boutiques, and A Love Story Bridal is the leading bridal salon in the Capital District for customization. Our expert team will guide you through what can and should be altered during your consultation. Many dresses allow for custom changes such as adding sleeves, changing necklines, or altering train lengths, and we will work closely with you to determine the best options for your gown.

It’s important to note that customizations can be expensive, and costs will depend on the complexity of the changes. Our consultants will explain all pricing details upfront so you can make an informed decision about your custom alterations. If you’re interested in personalizing your dress, we recommend discussing it early in the shopping process to ensure that all modifications can be accommodated within your timeline.

When should I book my wedding dress fittings?

Our team will schedule your follow-up and fitting appointments as needed, but you should expect to have two to three appointments prior to pickup. These fittings are an exciting part of the journey, as you’ll get to see your gown come to life with every adjustment. Our expert seamstresses will ensure that every detail is perfected so that you feel absolutely radiant on your wedding day! to ensure your dress fits perfectly. These fittings allow us to make any necessary adjustments so you can walk down the aisle feeling confident and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

We hope this FAQ has answered all your wedding dress-shopping questions! Still need help? Book an appointment today, and let our expert stylists guide you to your dream gown.