Just Said “Yes”? Here’s What to Do Next (Wedding Dress Focused!)

First off—congratulations! You’re engaged! 💍 This is such an exciting time filled with love, celebration, and (let’s be real) a little bit of planning overwhelm. While there’s plenty to think about after you say “yes,” one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning is finding the dress.

If you’re recently engaged and wondering what your next steps should be when it comes to your wedding gown, we’ve got you covered.

1. Celebrate the Moment

Before diving into planning mode, take time to enjoy your engagement. Share the news with family and friends, pop some champagne, and soak it all in—you only get to experience this chapter once.

2. Set Your Wedding Date & Venue

Your venue and season play a huge role in the type of dress you may want. A ballroom wedding in winter calls for a different gown vibe than a breezy summer beach wedding. Once you have a date and venue, you’ll have a clearer vision for your dress.

3. Do Some Research & Gather Inspiration

Pinterest, Instagram, and bridal magazines are your best friends right now. Start saving dresses that catch your eye—even if you’re not sure why you love them. Pay attention to patterns in your favorites: silhouettes, fabrics, details, and designers. This “wish list” will help guide your shopping.

4. Book Your Bridal Appointment Early

Here’s a little insider secret: wedding gowns typically take about 5–6 months to be made, and most brides need an additional 2 months for alterations. That means you’ll want to start dress shopping about 8–10 months before your wedding date to have the best selection and the least stress.

If your wedding is sooner, don’t worry! Many bridal salons (like ours) offer:

• Rush orders for certain designers

• Off-the-rack gowns you can take home the same day

5. Set Your Budget

It’s important to go into your appointment with a clear budget in mind. This helps your stylist pull gowns that fit both your style and your price point. Don’t forget to factor in alterations, accessories (veil, jewelry, shoes), and cleaning/preservation after your big day.

6. Choose Your Shopping Squad Wisely

Bring a small group of supportive people who will celebrate you and your style. Too many opinions can get overwhelming, so 2–3 trusted guests is usually perfect. Remember, the final decision is all about what makes you feel the most beautiful.

7. Keep an Open Mind

It’s common to walk in thinking you know exactly what you want, only to fall in love with something completely different. Trust your stylist, try on a variety of styles, and listen to your gut. The right dress will make you feel like a bride.

8. Say Yes to the Dress & Celebrate Again!

Once you’ve found the gown, pop that bubbly (again!) and celebrate the milestone. One of the biggest decisions of your wedding planning is complete, and now you can start envisioning the rest of your bridal look.

Final Thought

Getting engaged marks the start of a beautiful journey—and finding your wedding dress is one of the most memorable parts. The key is to start early, stay open-minded, and enjoy the process. After all, this is your moment to shine!