Everyone loves receiving packages – especially when those packages are wedding dresses.
Even if you can’t make it in to an Mari Bella Bridal Galleria Weddings store, trying on gowns can still be one of the most fun parts of wedding planning. To make the experience extra special, we asked our in-store stylists for their top tips on transforming your home into a bridal boutique. Read on for their step-by-step guide to styling success – and have fun!
Set the Scene: Prepping the Dressing Room
Take the time to set your gown up for success!
First, choose a space with a large mirror and good lighting – natural light is best, and you'll definitely want to avoid harsh overhead or fluorescent lights. Cover the floor with a clean bed sheet to protect your gown, and remove any spill-able items from the room. (OK, the bubbly can stay – but the coffee has to go.) This is also a good time to escort any furry friends to another room.
Inviting people from your inner circle to come watch and help you try on your wedding dress can make your wedding preparations even more meaningful and memorable. Plus, they can offer priceless advice on styles and shapes that will help you make the perfect choice.
First, choose a space with a large mirror and good lighting – natural light is best, and you'll definitely want to avoid harsh overhead or fluorescent lights. Cover the floor with a clean bed sheet to protect your gown, and remove any spill-able items from the room. (OK, the bubbly can stay – but the coffee has to go.) This is also a good time to escort any furry friends to another room.
Inviting people from your inner circle to come watch and help you try on your wedding dress can make your wedding preparations even more meaningful and memorable. Plus, they can offer priceless advice on styles and shapes that will help you make the perfect choice.
Look the Part: Don't Forget Bridal Accessories!
To best envision your wedding look, try to loosely mirror your styling plans for the big day. Style your hair simply but similarly (up or down makes a big difference!) and wear shoes the same height as your planned pair. If you have any must-wear accessories (such as an heirloom veil or a special "something blue"), keep them handy to try on with the gown.
Wear nude, seamless undergarments, and any shapewear that you're considering. Finally, remove any jewelry that could snag the gown.
Now cue the music – we're about to get started! (Need a little inspiration? Check out our
Wear nude, seamless undergarments, and any shapewear that you're considering. Finally, remove any jewelry that could snag the gown.
Now cue the music – we're about to get started! (Need a little inspiration? Check out our
Go Ahead – Try it On: How to Try On Different Wedding Dress Styles
This is where a friend comes in handy. If you can, recruit someone to help with any tricky fastenings.
If the gown has a back zipper, step into it; if the gown has a side zipper, pull it on overhead. Close the hook-and-eye (if there is one) before zipping the gown.
Now, look in the mirror!
If the gown has a back zipper, step into it; if the gown has a side zipper, pull it on overhead. Close the hook-and-eye (if there is one) before zipping the gown.
Now, look in the mirror!
Tailoring & Timing: Wedding Dress Alterations Timeline
We're sure you look amazing. But don’t be discouraged if your gown doesn’t fit perfectly – almost every wedding dress requires alterations from an experienced bridal tailor.
Plan ahead for tailoring; alterations generally involve three fittings over the course of eight to twelve weeks. For a list of recommended tailors, Ask friends and family for suggestions, or search online for highly rated bridal alteration experts in your area.
Plan ahead for tailoring; alterations generally involve three fittings over the course of eight to twelve weeks. For a list of recommended tailors, Ask friends and family for suggestions, or search online for highly rated bridal alteration experts in your area.
Say Goodbye (For Now): How to Store Your Wedding Dress
Store your gown safely until it's time to meet again. Cover it in a natural, breathable fabric for extra protection (we recommend a clean cotton bed sheet) and store flat in a dark, dry space (under your bed is perfect).
If you must hang your gown, do so in the back of the closet with room on either side. Use the garment loops to relieve any pressure on the straps.
If you must hang your gown, do so in the back of the closet with room on either side. Use the garment loops to relieve any pressure on the straps.
Before the Big Day: How to Prep Your Dress for the Wedding Day
A day or two before your wedding, hang your gown to release any wrinkles. Choose a location high enough that it won’t trail on the floor, or place a clean bed sheet below to protect the hem.
Steam (never iron!) to remove stubborn wrinkles. If you'd prefer to leave this to a professional, contact a local dry cleaner that specializes in bridal wear.
Transporting your wedding dress safely to the location where you will be getting ready for your special day is a must. Consider investing in a garment bag and use extra cushioning such as tissue paper or bubble wrap for extra protection. This way, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your beloved dress is in good hands and will arrive safely to its destination.
Steam (never iron!) to remove stubborn wrinkles. If you'd prefer to leave this to a professional, contact a local dry cleaner that specializes in bridal wear.
Transporting your wedding dress safely to the location where you will be getting ready for your special day is a must. Consider investing in a garment bag and use extra cushioning such as tissue paper or bubble wrap for extra protection. This way, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your beloved dress is in good hands and will arrive safely to its destination.
After the Big Day: Wedding Dress Preservation
After your wedding, correctly storing your dress is an essential step to preserve it for years to come. Look for a storage box made of acid-free paper or canvas and seal it with plastic, especially if you’re planning to store the dress for a long time. Alternatively, use polyester taffeta or an acid-free cotton fabric to wrap the dress. Hang or lay your wedding dress flat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.