My inventory usually consists of over 1000 gowns! That's a lot. Yet, I don't have enough diversity to please everyone.
 
Many times, a bride walks in with a style in mind. But when she tries it on - yuck...not flattering. 
 
It is not unusual that I pull a gown off the rack that is completely different from what she has described to me - and that's THE dress!

Lesson 1 - be open minded, be very open minded.
Remember too, dresses are just fabric. The big bow, those ridiculous fabric roses, dangling beads, etc - they can be easily removed!
 
Even keep in mind that many sleeves can be removed if you are looking for a tank style dress. Straps can be added to a strapless. A modesty panel can be added to a plunging neckline. Lace too sheer? add a lining. Bra cups can be added to fill out a bustline or elimite the need for a bra/bustier.
 
You wanted a pick-up skirt - maybe it can be hemmed with pick-ups? You did not want a train - Adding a bustle to pull up the train keeps you from having to drag it around all day.
 
I have even added color to beading on a dress and veil with the creative use of some nail polish. Add a colored sash by using any shawl...or the remnants from the hemming of one of your bridesmaids' dresses. There is even a service that will dye the entire gown for you.
 
Lesson 2: Don't sweat the small stuff.
Some brides buy the first dress they try on. Others shop for months and become desparate. My advice is to try on several different styles to start with. This way you will narrow down your basic silhouette and fabric. Then it is all up to the details.
 
If you plan on special ordering, do it early and leave yourself plenty of time. The store has no control over the manufacturer's schedule or which dresses will be discontinued with little notice.
 
If you are shopping "last minute" don't fret. There are several designers that offer a rush service (for an extra fee) and may even stock limited styles for quick delivery. You may find it less stressful to purchase something off the rack. I am all about less stress.
 
Last week I had a bride come in who had 2 weeks until her wedding. She found a dress and took it immediately to the seamstress.
 
Lesson 3: Start searching early, when you find the dress - buy it!
Designers discontinue style with little or no notice. It is not a sales tactic to get you to purchase - it does happen --- a lot! I can'tt tell you how many brides have come back only to find that the dress they wanted was no longer being made. Then it's back to square one. 

-Your Fairy Godmother

www.belchertownbridals.com