How early should I start shopping for my wedding dress?

Ideally, start shopping for your wedding dress 8 to 12 months before your wedding. Starting earlier is fine, but waiting longer may limit your options.

If you need a wedding dress in less than six months or there's less than six months prior to your wedding, you have options. Some designers have hanging stock meaning dresses are in stock in their warehouse and can ship out right away. Some designers offer rush options, but they are usually at a significantly increased cost. If your wedding is coming up faster than six months and you need a dress right away The Story Bridal Couture does offer off the rack options. You can come into the store and purchase any gown off the rack and take it home the same day. Not all stores offer “off the rack” options so if you need a gown right away you should definitely call to be sure that that is an option at the store you're going to.

Some brides want to know if purchasing a dress off the rack will give them a discount, usually the answer is no, the gown is full price because it is new dress it has never been worn for a wedding or outside the store it has only been tried on just like clothing from a department store. If you do have to purchase a gown off the rack you should be prepared to make a decision the day that you come in to shop because if there's only one of each dress, there is no guarantee the dress will be there if you come back.

The Story Bridal Couture will always do our best to help brides find their dream dress even when you are limited on time. We are here to help.

If you are short on time and have a limited budget. Consider working with our sister company The Wardrobe at The Story Bridal Couture, The Wardrobe offers wedding gown rentals starting at $500.