Shopping for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day, and having a solid timeline will make the experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’ve been dreaming of lace wedding dresses or envisioning yourself in something sleek and modern, knowing when to start and what to expect will help you say “yes to the dress” with confidence. From the first fitting to final alterations, this wedding dress shopping timeline will guide brides of Florida through every step.

12 Months Before: Start Gathering Inspiration

A year before your wedding is the perfect time to start gathering inspiration for your gown. Scroll through bridal magazines, save your favorite wedding gown styles from our Pinterest, and follow local boutiques for updates on new collections. This is also the time to set your budget and determine who will accompany you on shopping trips. With so many elegant wedding dresses available, knowing your style preferences will make the process smoother when it’s time to try them on.

9-10 Months Before: Schedule Bridal Appointments

Once you’ve narrowed down your favorite styles, it’s time to book your appointment at Aurora Bridal. Appointment times can fill up quickly, especially in peak wedding seasons, so schedule early to secure the best dates. Keep an open mind when trying on gowns—sometimes, the dress you never expected becomes the one. Whether you love intricate beading or prefer the timeless beauty of lace wedding dresses, allow yourself the chance to explore different options.

6-8 Months Before: Say Yes to the Dress

Around this time, you’ll likely find the wedding dress that feels just right. When you do, place your order with us and celebrate this special moment with your loved ones! Most gowns take several months to arrive, so ordering with plenty of time ensures you won’t feel rushed. Once your dress is on its way, start planning accessories, including veils, shoes, and jewelry, to complete your bridal look. If you’re planning any customizations, like adding sleeves or altering the neckline, let your boutique know early.

3-4 Months Before: Schedule Alterations

Even the most perfectly fitted gown will likely need a few adjustments. Schedule your first fitting at least three months before your wedding to allow time for alterations. Your seamstress will check the fit, hem the length, and adjust any intricate details to make sure your dress feels flawless. Bring your wedding shoes and undergarments to every fitting to ensure everything sits perfectly. By the final fitting, your gown will be tailored to you in every way.

1 Month Before: Final Touches and Bridal Portraits

With your wedding dress ready, it’s time for final preparations. Pick up your gown, store it properly, and make sure you have everything ready for the big day. Some brides schedule bridal portraits around this time to capture their gown in all its beauty before the wedding. Whether posing in an elegant garden or along Florida’s coastline, these photos are a wonderful way to celebrate your bridal look before walking down the aisle.

Now that you know your ideal wedding dress shopping timeline, you can confidently say “yes to the dress” and look forward to wearing the gown of your dreams on your special day. We can’t wait to be part of your journey to finding the perfect dress.