The Engagement Starts The Fuss



The moment the man pops the question, the wedding planning frenzy starts, and the fiancee is always overwhelmed with the amount of preparation for the wedding. The wedding gown is the major issue to deal with, while the rest are secondary issues and can be attended to by family members and friends.

After deciding the wedding date and the venue of the ceremony and reception, everything goes on a roll, but the brides-to-be give more attention to the wedding gown of their fantasies. They must have the best or go bust. With so many things to do at once, tempers flare and misunderstandings between the couples and families happen, but these are expected.

The best way to treat the issue and keep one's composure is to make a list of the things to do, bridal shops to visit, and the gowns and accessories to get for the bride and the bridesmaids.

Deciding the Details

Wedding Theme - The design of the bride's gown will depend on the type of wedding ceremony in mind. Will it be an elaborate traditional wedding, or an informal but elegant themed wedding? Once this has been decided, there will be a general idea where to begin one's search for the perfect gown.

Budget - The budget is the cincher. No matter what you decide for your wedding, the budget will dictate the extent of your expenses for gowns, number of groomsmen and bridesmaids, menu and reception, and honeymoon.

Other details like invitation, wedding cake, photography, DJ service, and limousine rental will have to be carefully adjusted without giving up the frills for a dream wedding, no matter simple or extravagant it is.

Preparing for the Wedding Gown

When you have decided the budget for the wedding and the gown, you either have three choices - get a custom-made gown, buy a gown off the rack, or rent a gown.

It is also a big mistake to stick to a particular design because it looked terrific on Noami Campbell or Adriana Lima, and rush order gowns should be avoided because these are expensive. It's better to stay cool and plan the purchase of your gown six months before the wedding.

Six months may seem too much, but when you're on the hunt for a wedding gown here are the energy-zappers you have to deal with:

* Choosing the design and fabric.

* Selecting the accessories and jewelries.

* Fitting sessions.

* Watching your weight.

* Sticking to the budget.

If your wedding falls on prom month, better make reservations for your gown and accessories, limousine, and other services well ahead of time, even a year ahead, just to make sure you can be accommodated. During peak months, prices can be staggering and discounts are hard to come by.

When shopping for your gown, take along two of your best friends and let them judge the fit and cut of the dress on you, not while it's still on the hanger. Just make sure you look perfect from all angles in your wedding gown.