How to Prepare for Your First Bridal Appointment (So You Actually Enjoy It)
First bridal appointments are exciting. They're also, for a lot of brides, quietly terrifying. Here's the honest guide to walking in feeling ready and more importantly not overwhelmed.
What to wear
Nude or strapless underwear (or a strapless bra)
Hair up or easily pinned so you can see necklines clearly
Minimal jewellery — you'll be trying accessories too
Some heels.
As high as you can get away with and feel comfortable. They don’t need to be THE heels, just something to help you stand a little taller, as all the brides before you will affirm… I don’t believe in podiums!
Who to bring (and who to leave at home)
Two or three people who are completely in your corner, who possibly know you better than you know yourself!
Someone who listens before they speak.
Your thoughts and feelings are whats important and what I want to hear, and I want to hear them first before Auntie Sarah gets to chip in with what wedding dress shopping was like for her 20 years ago..
Fewer opinions = better experience, every time. TRUST ME ON THIS ONE!
and if everyone wants to come, blame me and my less is more policy. It’s ok, I can take it!
What to think about beforehand
One word: how do you want to feel?
It always amazes me that when I ask this question, those of you who have shopped elsewhere before your visit to me, state that you have never been asked that. I am aware that this is going to sound absolutely ridiculous but your wedding dress isn’t just about how you look, that’s not even the most important part. It’s about how your dress makes you feel, and to say Yes to the Dress, I want to know you feel like THE most beautiful and confident version of you!
Your actual wardrobe, not your Pinterest board
As in what is your normal style? This is a hill I will die on, your wedding day is THE day to look like you at your absolute best, not the day to try something new just because you are a bride, therefore if you wear glasses everyday then wear your glasses, if you always have your hair down, then have your hair down etc, anyway I digress, what I mean here is are you someone who will always go for something off the shoulder when you get glammed up, do you love skirts with a split showing off your legs… (or leg but you know what I mean)
A rough budget range (including alterations — budget £250–£450 separately)
What NOT to do
Don't over-research. Too many images creates a fixed idea that's hard to move past.
Don't bring someone who has their own vision for what you should look like.
Don't panic if nothing feels right in the first 20 minutes. That's completely normal.
What to expect at The Bottom Drawer bridal specifically
The boutique is yours, completely — no other brides, no strangers
We start with a conversation, not a form
You'll try things you asked for and things you didn't — the second category is usually where the magic happens. You’re welcome by the way!
How does that all sound? Ready to book? The link is here. I can't wait to meet you.
