Wedding Dress Shopping Etiquette?

I tried on dresses at 3 different stores. You can try on and look as long as you need/want to!

Go, and enjoy! The consultant's goal is to provide fantastic service so when you are ready to make a purchase, you'll come back to them. Don't put that pressure on yourself (or let anyone else pressure you) to make a purchase on the spot.

As a former bridal stylist, if you know you are just looking and want to make a second appointment with your mom (perfectly normal) please say something to the extent of, "I want to shop around first and see what is out there. I won't be committing to a dress until my mom can free her schedule and come with me because I want her to see me in the dress."

You can tactfully add, "I am considering ___ and ___" and I have brought, _______ with me to give me their opinion today.

The main thing is that you want to establish that you do not want to be pressured into making a decision, but you will not be wasting anyone's time. Stylists usually do make money on dress commissions on top of hourly wages, but sadly, some places may fire their stylists if they fail to bring in certain revenue, or write them up.

Because of this, some of the shady business practices within the bridal industry can prey on women's emotions. Some stores may want to pressure you to commit by saying things like, "It may not be in stock", or, "You won't be able to use the promotion later". If you are someone who has trouble saying, "No" or walking away, please bring a family member or friend who can.

Some other general pointers:

Do:
-Wear full coverage underwear or boy shorts.
-Come in wearing a comfy outfit that reflects your personal style.
-Bring in shoes with the heel height you are comfortable in.
-Be direct in your critique of each dress. Don't compromise in your critique.
-Call in days in advance. Walk ins sometimes happen, but more places are taking scheduled appointments only.

Don't:
-Put on a full face of makeup. You will be going in and out of dresses. You may even see foundation on stock pieces from clients who had thick foundation everywhere.
-Bring too many people. 1-2 is a good number to bring (if you choose to bring anyone) for your first appointments.

Be willing to try a few dresses you may have not considered. You may be pleasantly surprised.

Consider purchasing a bouquet of artificial flowers that resemble the colors and flowers you want on your wedding day, it will help you visualize your day and the image you want to create.

If you have jewelry that you know you want to wear, or are considering incorporating, bring it along.

Of course it's not bad etiquette! Deep down every dress shop worker knows that for every woman who finds The Dress the first time around, there are plenty of others who won't. It took me three trips to find mine. Besides, you should have as much fun with it as you can. If you happen to find the one that first day, great! Otherwise, enjoy each trip!