Shopping for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting moments of your bridal journey! But knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make the experience even more magical. Here’s everything you need to know before stepping into TDR Bridal Birmingham
Who should you bring to your bridal appointment?
Choosing the right people to bring to your appointment is like choosing the dress itself! While family and friends can offer valuable opinions, it’s important to bring people who are not too opinionated as it is ultimately your choice!
Consider these key questions before inviting someone:
✅ Will they listen to what you truly want?
✅ Can they be honest without being overwhelming?
✅ Will they celebrate your moment rather than making it about them?
If there’s any doubt, it may be best to limit your group. Some brides prefer to shop solo or only bring one or two trusted loved ones—this can keep the experience stress-free while preserving the magic for the big reveal on your special day
Image by ESTHER LOUISE TRIFFITT PHOTOGRAPHY
What underwear should you wear?
The right undergarments can make all the difference when trying on dresses. To ensure your gown fits flawlessly, opt for plain, seamless, skin-coloured underwear and strapless bras and shapewear can also be helpful for certain styles.
Here’s a quick guide based on dress styles:
Strapless, backless, or deep-V necklines: Consider stick-on cups or Boomba bras, which offer natural lift and shape without straps.
Fitted gowns: Seamless shapewear can smooth out lines and enhance confidence.
Ballgowns or A-line dresses: Standard, comfortable undergarments work fine since the skirt provides coverage.
If in doubt, bring a few options and ask your stylist for advice. At TDR, we offer Boomba bras, ultra-discreet inserts designed to enhance the fit effortlessly!
How long does ordering and alterations take?
Timing is everything when shopping for your gown if you want a brand new dress ordered!
Here’s a realistic timeline to follow:
✨ You might want to be super organised like some of our brides and shop 24-30 months in advance- this gives you longer to plan, organise & budget well for your wedding.
✨ You might want to shop 12 – 18 months in advance- the majority of our brides do this as it still gives us plenty of time for your wedding dress to arrive and for all your fittings to be done.
✨ You might only have 6 – 12 months because you got a great deal on a shorter lead time with your venue. This is no problem for us at all. We will still have plenty of time to have your dress made & delivered to us plus we have the added benefit of 4 onsite seamstresses so you’re guaranteed to have your dress fitted perfectly in time for your special day.
✨ you might have 1 – 6 months, don’t worry! We can help you! Lots of our Designers hold stock and we are able to “live pick” that stock so that you can have the dress you want in the size that you need. Again, our amazing onsite Seamstresses will get you Aisle ready in no time!
At TDR, we provide in-house seamstress services for expert tailoring, ensuring a flawless finish while keeping everything conveniently close to the boutique. The alterations team are located just in the building adjacent to TDR. Alterations happen on usually 6-8 weeks before your wedding.
Dress by Elysee- See HERE
What happens during your bridal appointment?
From the moment you step into TDR, expect an experience that is both luxurious and personal!
🥂 Warm welcome: Your private suite awaits, complete with a complimentary drink for you and your guests. Whether you prefer cocktails, fizz, coffee, or hot chocolate!
💃 Dress discovery: Your stylist will discuss your vision, walk you through our collections, and help you find the perfect gown.
👰 The try-on experience: You can try as many dresses as you like as there are no limits
💖 Tailored support: Our experienced stylists understand your emotions, fears, and body language, ensuring a personalised experience .
Oh, and did we mention? TDR appointments are free- because finding your dream dress should be about joy, not fees!
Final tips for a stress free wedding shopping experience
✔️ Come with an open mind- sometimes the gown you never expected is the one!
✔️ Take photos- capturing the moment can help you reflect on styles and remember the ones you LOVE
✔️ Trust your instincts- you’ll know when a dress feels just right!
✔️ Enjoy the experience- this is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, so soak in every second!
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Find your bridal inspo HERE
