Wedding dress shopping with a busy schedule

If your profile date of 1/7/25 is correct, you’re right in the window. I would just make an appointment at a bridal salon within the next few weeks and go. Be open minded and try on a variety of styles. Most new wedding dresses take around 6 months to come in, so you’re fine.

I would try to figure out what size you need first. That way you can save time by just trying on dresses that fit. I say figure this out because it has been said that bridal sizing is different from dress sizing (not sure how true that really is, but you can never be too safe). Just get a fabric measuring tape (they're easier to wrap around your body, you can get them in craft stores or the craft section at walmart) and ask someone to help you measure (you can look up what you need to measure), then write it down and look up a bridal sizing guide

Also, if you want to buy from a specific brand, go on their website and test out the store locator so you can see who locally sells that brand. Then call in and schedule an appointment. You could even probably check out specific dresses you like (like your top 3) and ask if they can hold one in your size when you reserve your appointment

Do you have days off from work during the weekend or midweek? Call to schedule one morning or afternoon over the course of a few weeks to book appointments during your availability and don’t plan to purchase the first dress you see. Another option is Azazie or Cocomelody that can ship dresses to you to try on at home on your schedule.

Every single brand & dress is going to vary in size & fit. I tried on sizes ranging from 0 up to 6 & they all fit about the same. I'd start by getting measured at a trustworthy seamstress first before making any appointments. You'll feel more confident when you do have time to go to a dress shop. When asked about your dress size, you can reference your measurements & try on appropriately fitting items.
Another thought & this comes from my own experience; Get fitted by a seamstress then shop online for dress styles you like. DO NOT order a custom size as they are often non-returnable. Should your perfectly fitted dress arrive & not fit, it may not be alterable if too large/small & depending on the policy, may not be returnable. I ordered a custom fit dress & it was far too large to be altered. Because I'd looked on branded websites as well as Etsy, & Amazon, I had an idea of the dress style I had in mind. When the high dollar, long shipping time dress didn't work out, I had an Amazon backup. For $80 & Prime shipping, I ended up with a perfect dress that fit immediately. I spent $1800 & waited 3 months for the 1st dress to come & it work out.
Because you have about a year to find a dress, I'd start actively looking now for styles, come up with a price range you'd like to stay within, & get measured sooner than later as wedding season is fast approaching & a seamstress may not have a lot of free time to meet with you.