For many brides, wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting parts of the planning journey. It’s easy to get swept up in the dreamy lace, flowing tulle, and sparkling beads - we get it! But before you step foot in a bridal shop, there’s one important question you should ask yourself: Am I truly ready to commit to buying a dress?

Here’s why shopping for your wedding dress before you’re prepared—both mentally and financially—might not be the best idea. Read to the end to see what you can do instead!

You might fall in love with a dress you can’t afford

Most brides actually find their perfect dress in their very first appointment! Brides often think they need to get a head start and at least know what styles they like, but truthfully this isn’t actually helpful as appointments are there to help you find ‘the’ dress. When you start shopping without a clear budget in place, it’s very easy to get attached to a dress that’s out of your price range or that you want to buy there and then to secure it, but you unfortunately can’t commit to right now.

If you shop at an off-the-peg bridal shop, the chances of certain dresses still being available in your size months later is unlikely, and all bridal boutiques change their stock due to discontinuations and dresses being sold off-the-rack. You could find yourself heartbroken after trying on a gown that you have to leave behind in store, not knowing if it will be available when you finally are ready to shop. This can add unnecessary stress and disappointment to the process.

It’s best to have your budget set and be financially ready to purchase your dress, just in case you have that moment and find "the one.”

Shopping etiquette matters

Wedding dress boutiques are often small businesses that take time to prepare for each appointment, which are often limited due to the small amount of appointments they can offer. If you’re not genuinely in a position to commit, it can take valuable time from stylists and appointments away from other brides who are trying to find their dress more urgently. This means we are better able to assist everyone when brides shop when ready and seriously looking to find a dress. There is absolutely no expectation or pressure to buy a dress, we simply ask you to come in when you are actively trying to find and buy your dress and we will aim to do just that!

Styles & preferences may change

Your vision for your wedding might evolve over time, and shopping too early means you could end up choosing a dress that doesn’t match the overall look or feel of your day. Whether it's a venue change or a different season, what you want in a dress now may not be what you want closer to your wedding day.

It’s best to shop when you have a clearer idea of your venue, season, and overall wedding vibe to avoid you questioning whether you have bought the right dress for your day - which nobody wants!

Too many appointments cause overwhelm

Trying on too many dresses too early can lead to “decision fatigue.” It’s tempting to schedule several appointments at different shops when you’re just browsing, but seeing too many gowns can make it harder to decide when the time comes to purchase. You might find yourself constantly second-guessing your decision, wishing you could try on that dress from six months ago.

So, when should you shop?

The best time to shop for your wedding dress is when you’ve finalised a few key details:

• You’ve set a clear budget.

• You know the date and season of your wedding.

• You have a good idea, or have secured your venue.

• You’re ready to make a purchase if you find the dress.

Ultimately, shopping for a wedding dress is a magical experience when the timing is right. By waiting until you’re fully ready to commit, you’ll avoid the stress, disappointment, and uncertainty that can come with shopping too early. Just remember to give yourself a few months before your wedding date to allow for any alterations. When you’ve got everything in place, your dress shopping experience will feel more meaningful, focused, and exciting!

Not ready yet? Do this instead!

Browse wedding dresses. Whether on local bridal shop websites or on Pinterest - use images to inspire you and find what you are drawn to. You can even write a list of dresses you’d like to try when the time is right.

• Define your aesthetic. Are you envisioning a romantic garden wedding, a vintage look, or something more minimalistic? Whether you’re drawn to dramatic or simple styles, identifying your vision will focus your search.

• Establish your must-haves and deal-breakers. While it’s good to stay flexible, knowing the things you do and don’t want from your dress (silhouettes, train length, budget, dress detail) will help making the choice easier when it comes to finding a shop that suits.

• Plan your shopping trip. The ideal time to shop for your wedding dress is about a year before the big day, once your venue and budget are all set.

Ready to shop for real? Book your appointment with us when the timing is right, and we’d love to help you find the gown of your dreams!