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 RIWeddingGuide.com:    Home  |   Planning  |   Local Vendors   |   Brides' Corner   |   Shopping
Finding that perfect dress - for any occasion - can be an enduring task. The right style, cut, fit can all lead to one frazzled woman!  You don't want to go through this when selecting a gown for your wedding day.  Be prepared before you begin this task: we've listed tips and what to expect on this journey, as well as dress styles that will fit your body type the best.
  
In this issue, you'll find helpful info on:
  - Wedding Attire Tips
  - Choosing Your Gown
  - FAQ: A friend is singing at our ceremony - what do I pay her?
  
 Wedding Attire Tips
> Choosing your wedding dress can be overwhelming. Before you begin your hunt for the perfect dress, prepare yourself! We've listed steps to help you get started and what to expect from bridal shops. If you are not sure what style dress will look best on you, be sure to read about choosing a wedding gown in the article below.
 
The bride will be the center of attention as she walks down the aisle in her wedding dress. The dress will set the level of formality for the ceremony and the reception. Therefore, you must leave plenty of time for shopping because you must complete your shopping before your attendants can begin theirs.
 
Choose a bridal shop that has a good reputation. Ask friends and relatives for referrals. You want and need a bridal retailer who will do whatever they can to ensure that you are happy. The retailer should be able to handle everything including customizing the gown, fittings and alterations, accessories and ordering and fitting attendants' dresses.
 
The average cost of a wedding gown is approximately $800-$1500. A designer gown can cost you thousands of dollars. If you decide on a one-of-a-kind wedding gown, plan on paying much more. The average headpiece can cost you anywhere from $150 - $300. Average cost of shoes: $50.
 
Get ideas on different styles by going through bridal magazines. Cut out any styles you like and show them to the bridal retailer. This way she can show you gowns similar to your taste. Don't be afraid to try on many different styles. You may be surprised on how they actually look on you.
 
It's a good idea to bring along a trusting friend or relative while you try on the gowns. This way they can give you their opinions on what particular style looks best on you. It's also a good idea to bring a pair of shoes with the same size heel that you plan on wearing on your wedding day. Fix your hair the way you are planning on wearing it at your wedding so you can get the full effect of the gown and headpiece.
 
You will need to order your gown at least four to eight months in advance. This will allow time for the manufacturer to make your gown closest to your size. Most bridal styles are sized smaller than everyday dresses. If you are normally a size 8, don't be surprised if you need a size 10 wedding gown. When your gown comes in, allow yourself at least a month for alterations and fittings. Remember, alterations and fittings cost extra!
 
Make sure you find out the cancellation policy that the store has before you leave a deposit. Also, be sure to find out how much they charge for alterations.
 
If you are on a tight budget, you may consider renting your gown. You can call your local formal-wear shop and check out their selection. Another alternative would be to go to a second-hand shop. You will probably need alterations but the savings will still be great. You can also have your wedding dress sewn by a seamstress, friend or yourself. The price of the material and labor costs are often cheaper than designer gowns.
 
Find a local bridal shop. More>
Find tips on ordering and saving on your gown. More>
 
 Choosing Your Gown
Your wedding gown will probably be the single most expensive dress that you will ever purchase. Regardless of price, you want the dress to look and make you feel beautiful. You'll want a dress that flatters your height, weight and body type. A dress that will accentuate your best features!
 
If you're not sure of what style dress would look best on you, below we've listed some of the popular dress styles and body types that the style will look best on:
 
A-Line
: The A-Line dress has a fitted bodice which gradually flares wider from the bust down to the hemline (looks like the shape of the letter "A"). This dress flatters just about every body type.
 
Ball Gown: The Ball gown has a full skirt with off-the-shoulder bodice and a natural waistline. A good example would be Cinderella's Ball Gown. If you have a full-figure, this would be a great dress for you.
 
Empire: The Empire gown has a very high waist which starts right below the bust line. It has a slim, slightly flared skirt. If you're petite, this dress will tend to lengthen your look.
 
Sheath: The Sheath gown fits snug. It has a straight skirt without a waist. If you have a well-proportioned figure (and who doesn't?!) this dress will look great on you.
 
Princess: The Princess gown has a bodice that is slim-fitting and it accents the waistline. It has vertical seams that flow from the shoulders all the way down to the hemline of a flared skirt. This is another great gown for a petite woman. It will give her height.
 
Basque Waist: The waistline of the Basque gown begins several inches below the waist. It has a V-shape or curved U-shape that fits the waist snug. This dress is a slenderizing dress for all body types. It gives the bride the appearance of a perfect hourglass shape.
 
If you're looking to minimize your hips choose an A-Line, the Basque Waist or a dropped V-Line. If you are a flat-chested woman, strapless or sleeveless gowns with detailing on the bodice is a nice choice.
 
Try on several different styles of dresses to see which looks best on you. Dresses look different on the hanger so try on a few different styles to see what best compliments your figure.
 
Select the right accessories to compliment your gown. More>
 
 Frequently Asked Question
Q: > An acquaintance from church is going to sing a solo at our wedding. I'm not sure if I'm suppose to pay her. When I asked her, she never mentioned anything about being paid. I'm afraid that I will insult her by not paying her. Should I pay her? If so, how much?
A: If you're not sure whether or not you should pay her, give her a gift certificate to a restaurant or store and a very nice thank you note to show her that you appreciate her being part of your special day.
  Suggestions for the Prelude, Processional and Recessional. More>
Show your appreciation with a special gift. More>
 
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Monogram Garter
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