Hey There, Gorgeous! Engaged?
We know you’ve got a million things to plan, but let’s be real—finding the dress is probably top of mind. Before diving into Pinterest boards, a TikTok rabbit hole, or endlessly examining bridal designer collections, let’s talk about how to make your journey fun and stress-free.
Bridal Gown Shopping Tips
1. Set your wedding dress budget.
Talking numbers is 100% not romantic, but it is important! Before you try on even one gown, it’s a good idea to understand pricing and set your budget.
What do wedding gowns cost? The national average for a wedding gown is $2,000. At this price point, you are typically looking at high-quality, mass-produced gowns. Prices for luxury designer dresses are generally greater. Due to the fabric, fit, and hand-finished details, these gowns are $2,300 +. Lea-Ann Belter Bridal gowns range from $3,000 to $5,000+, and our Astrid & Mercedes gowns range from $2,200 to $3,000.
Why the range? Several factors influence the price of each dress. The cost per yard of fine textiles like jacquard, lace, Duchess Satin, and Mikado is greater, as are elements of construction, such as linings, boning, and horsehair hems. Then there is the fabrication of the actual dress. When you place your order for any Lea-Ann Belter or Astrid & Mercedes dress, it’s cut, sewn, and finished by our marvelous Toronto team.
Don’t forget the extras: Most of the time, when you buy a wedding dress, you’ll need alterations. Plan for alterations to cost between $300 and $600.
Then there are accessories like veils and jewelry, and taxes. A veil alone can range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 for longer, embellished styles.
Shopping at Lea-Ann Belter? At our flagship Toronto bridal shop, alterations are included in the price of your dress and handled in-house by our talented team.
If you’re shopping at one of our stockists across the US and Canada, ask about their alteration services and pricing when you book your appointment.
Be honest with your consultant: When you arrive for your appointment, share your budget. There’s nothing to be cagey about, and you’re setting the stage for a better experience. Your consultant will not suggest dresses outside your budget, so the chance of wanting something outrageously more than you want to spend is zero.
2. Wear underthings you feel good in.
At most boutiques, your consultant will help you into every gown, which means they’ll see you and your underthings. Don’t stress—wedding gown consultants are total pros at making you feel comfortable. We know that the moment you’re standing there mostly undressed can feel awkward. Just remember a brdal dressing room is a judgement-free zone, and the person helping you is focused on helping you find the right gown – not examining every inch of you.
Still, wearing the bra and underwear you feel good in can go a long way. After that first dress, you’ll forget all about the fact that you’re in a dressing room with a near stranger!
Pro Tip: Bring along a strapless bra that works! Not the one you haven’t worn since high-school or the one that you have to tug up every half-second! If you prefer to wear smoothing undergarments, bring those along, too.
3. Treat it like a date.
Shopping for your dress is a big moment, and we’ve found that for many, it’s much easier to see how you may look on your wedding day when you’re feeling your best. We’re not suggesting you go to a blowout bar or have your makeup done! Just wear your hair and makeup (if you wear any), as though you’re meeting someone special, because you are!
4.Bring a curated crew.
Less is more when it comes to your entourage. While it’s tempting to invite everyone, too many opinions can lead to unnecessary stress. Stick to one to three trusted people whose feedback you value.
Bonus Tip: Virtual appointments are a fantastic way to keep the focus on you. A quieter setting with just your stylist and one or two loved ones makes it easier to focus on what YOU truly love.
5.Keep an open mind.
We can’t tell you how many times someone has visited our shop, intent on wearing no lace or a minimal skirt, only to fall in love with a ball gown wedding dress! If your stylist suggests a silhouette that’s not what you pictured, try it on! You might be surprised—or you may not. But taking a fit-and-flare bridal gown for a twirl when you always pictured yourself in an A-line is part of the journey to finding your match.
6. Use photos with caution.
Photos can be helpful, but don’t rely on them entirely. Lighting, angles, and posture can mislead you. Instead, focus on how the gown makes you feel and what you see in the mirror. Your heart knows best!
Ready to Find the One?
Search for your nearest Lea-Ann Belter Bridal retailer or visit us at our flagship Toronto bridal shop for personalized service and exclusive collections.
📍 Flagship Location: 238 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON
📧 Book an appointment
📞 Call Us: 416 778 6868
