Skip to main content
31 Jan 2025

Say Yes to the Dress: 5 Top Tips for Finding The One

Hannah Crees, Bride of the Season

Shopping for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many styles, designers, and boutiques to choose from, it’s easy to feel the pressure of finding the one. To help make the experience as stress-free and enjoyable as possible, here are my top tips for wedding dress shopping.

hannah crees proposal

1. Start Looking Early – Before the 12-Month Mark If Possible

If you can, begin your search at least 12 months before your wedding. Wedding dresses often take six to nine months to be made, and that doesn’t include time for alterations. Giving yourself plenty of time means you can explore different styles, visit multiple boutiques, and avoid any last-minute panic. If you're short on time, don’t worry—many shops offer off-the-rack dresses or rush orders, but starting early gives you the best options.

2. Bring the Right People – Honest, but Not Too Many Opinions

Choosing who to take with you can make or break the experience. You’ll want people who will give you honest yet supportive feedback, but bringing too many opinions can be overwhelming. I found 3-4 trusted people was the perfect amount —whether it’s your mum, Maid of Honour, or bridesmaid — the right people around you can help keep you focused and uplifted without adding unnecessary stress.

hannah crees dress shopping

3. Keep an Open Mind – You Might Surprise Yourself!

You may have a dream dress in mind, but trying on different styles can completely change your perspective. Brides often find that the dress they fall in love with is nothing like what they originally pictured. Trust your bridal consultant, experiment with silhouettes, and allow yourself to be pleasantly surprised!

4. Take Photos & Videos – But Delete Them Once You’ve Said Yes

If the boutique allows it, take pictures and videos of each dress you try. This will help you compare styles later, especially if you visit multiple shops. However, once you’ve chosen the one, DELETE everything. It’s easy to second-guess yourself when scrolling through photos/videos, but remember—you picked your dress for a reason! Focus on the excitement of wearing your perfect dress rather than what-ifs.

5. Most Importantly – Enjoy the Experience!

Wedding dress shopping is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, so make the most of it! Whether it’s a fun day out with loved ones or a solo adventure, embrace the excitement, sip some bubbly, and soak it all in. This is your special moment—enjoy every second of it!

hannah crees searching for the dress

Final Thoughts 💕

Finding your wedding dress is an unforgettable part of your journey to “I do.” By starting early, keeping an open mind, and surrounding yourself with the right people, you’ll have an amazing experience and walk away with a dress that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.

For more wedding tips, bridal inspiration, and all things WeddingTok, follow me on TikTok @hannahcrees! 💍✨

🎉 Plus, I’m running an exciting competition to WIN 2 VIP tickets to The National Wedding Show! Head over to my page now to enter and be part of the UK’s biggest wedding event! 🎟️💕

Loading