The selection of your wedding gown is one of the most exciting and anticipated aspects of your wedding planning. Your wedding dress is one of the biggest features of your wedding day, a dress that draws attention both to your beauty and to the significance of the celebration of your wedding vows. So it’s wise to choose that dress carefully, taking time to select one that suits your figure, complexion and height just perfectly.

Begin your search in the bridal magazines where a variety of gown styles and fashions are displayed. These will give you a sense of what your options are and which dress lines you prefer. Take pictures of the gowns you prefer with you to the salons. If they don’t have the exact manufacturer's design in stock, the consultant can help select gowns that most resemble the pictures. Prepare to try on several completely different gowns at the bridal store, but don’t overwhelm yourself with seeing and trying on too many gowns in one day. If you plan to visit several salons, spread it over a few days. And book ahead: it’s recommended you make an appointment to allow the shop’s consultant to devote her undivided attention to you.

When choosing your gown, look at the care label so that there will be clear instructions when you take your gown to be dry cleaned.

If you choose to have your gown custom-made, allow six to nine months to have it crafted. The selection of style, fabric and detail can be time consuming. Often brides start a fitness program prior to the wedding. Whether it be to lose a few pounds or to tone up, let the designer know this in advance. This way they can make allowances for any alterations that may need to be made. It is much easier to take in a dress that is too big than to find you don't have enough material the month before. Several fittings are recommended.

Some brides choose to wear a gown that has been passed down from generation to generation in their family. Several dressmakers and dry cleaners specialize in restoring wedding gowns and completing alterations to make the gown look as if it were brand new.

Many bridal salons also carry accessories to complement the dress of your choice. Ask to see their selection of veils, jewellery, gloves and shoes. Try not to leave these decisions to the last minute for there will be many other details to look after.