It’s time for THE dress. The dress you might have been dreaming about since you were a little girl playing dress-up. The dress you’ll be remembered in photos for years to come. And the dress that all of your family and friends at your wedding will turn their eyes to see you in as you walk down the aisle.

Needless to say, many stress out about the dress looking for just the right one.

So here are a few of a lil’ wedding planner’s tips I’ve found along the way to help with your wedding dress shopping:

• First time’s a charm. Believe it or not, a large percentage of brides actually choose to go with the first dress that they do try on. You might be one of those brides and if that’s the case – don’t stress or second guess yourself! You might have already spent hours pouring over bridal magazines and online photos and know exactly what you want. Your heart might already be set on a style, and if you know your body then you know it works well with your shape. If that’s you, then first time is a charm! Don’t feel the pressure to keep trying on other dresses “just to make sure”. One or two might be enough, your heart will know!
• Sit, stand, walk. Do all three things while trying on your dress. We know, sometimes you feel like a deer caught in headlights staring at your reflection in the mirror. But take a moment to inhale, take in the moment, and then walk to a chair and sit down! You need to know how your dress will feel since a large portion of your day will include walking in your dress and sitting for the reception. Don’t be surprised on your wedding day. If something doesn’t feel right, alterations can adjust it for you before the big event. And go ahead – throw in a little twirl while you’re at it
• Complete the look. Throw on a veil, grab a bouquet in the store, choose some jewelry and put it on! It might sound like common sense but sometimes brides don’t complete the look until they’ve bought all the pieces and realize that something doesn’t look right. Your dress shape and size will often guide you in what your veil, jewelry, and bouquet should look like so that it compliments the dress and works with your entire look. So do it at the beginning in the store and remember what you’re looking for as you shop for the rest of your pieces!
• Beware numerous opinions. I know you love your mother and grandmother and bridesmaids, and they are there to give you their support and honest opinions, but remember that they have their own fashion tastes as well – which might be different from yours. So take in what they have to say if a dress makes your butt look big or shows too much cleavage (and thank them for their loving honesty) but also remember that you know your body and your style, and don’t let their voices crowd out yours – which is the one that knows you best.

Have fun shopping! Be courageous and throw in a dress you normal wouldn’t go for into the mix to see how it looks on you (and at the least, confirm what style you think you want). The experience should be fun and full of giggles, not clouded with stress or doubts. And remember to start shopping early – so you can have more time to look if you haven’t quite yet found the dress.