Congratulations, you’re planning a wedding! There are many things about your day that you can delegate to your partner or event planner, but (luckily) wedding dress shopping is not one of them. Odds are you already have an idea of what kind of dress you like, whether you have been scouring pinterest since you were 14 or you ended up watching Say Yes to the Dress when you claimed there was nothing better on TV.
It is so exciting to think that your perfect dream dress is out there waiting for you, but there are so many choices that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Wedding dress shopping should be a day (or weekend!) where you feel happy, loved, and absolutely beautiful. To make planning this event as stress free and fun as possible, we’ve done the research and put together the top 6 most important tips from brides and wedding planners to have the most success finding your dream wedding dress.
Research Types of Wedding Dress
We don’t mean staying-up-all-night-writing-your-thesis type of research, just spend a bit of time on pinterest and online dress websites so you have an idea of what kinds of dresses you like. Knowing the difference between a mermaid-style dress and a fit and flare dress is much simpler than trying to describe (or draw!) a shape when you get to the bridal shop.
Bring some photos, know what you like and what you don’t like, but don’t overplan and certainly don’t rule anything out. Let yourself be surprised if you end up liking something that looks nothing like what you thought you wanted. Being open to trying different styles and colours will help you feel more confident that when you find the one, you’ll know.
Plan Your Hunt for the Perfect Wedding Dress
Making an appointment with a bridal consultant 9-12 months before the big day ensures you have enough time not only to find your wedding dress but also to alter it, which is often what takes the most time. Planning appointments within days of each other (or making a weekend out of it!) is recommended so the dresses you have tried on are fresh in your mind. You will also want to call the bridal shop before your appointment to let them know what styles you like. That way, they can have some dresses ready for you before you arrive. If you have a specific gown in mind find out if they have it ahead of time and let them know.
When you call the bridal salon, make sure you also ask about their COVID-19 precautions and protocol. Ask how many people you are welcome to bring, whether or not you need to wear a mask the entire time (and if they offer complimentary neutral-toned ones) and whether or not they have sanitizing wipes available for you to use.
Be Prepared
There is nothing worse than getting somewhere and realizing you forgot something you needed. This is why packing a special “dress shopping” bag is so important and will help ease your stress. In it you want to make sure you have:
—underwear and a bra similar to what you think you’ll be wearing on your wedding day
—heels similar in height to the ones you will be wearing
—a simple neutral-coloured mask that won’t draw attention away from you or the dresses
—any accessories you are thinking of wearing on your wedding day, especially if you want to build your look around a specific item or piece of jewelry
—your favourite snack
—any hair products you might need to touch up your look
—your favourite hand sanitizer—preferably one that does not leave residue on your hands
—anything else you think you might want to bring
If there is a remote chance you might need something, bring it. You’re always better safe than sorry. (Better make it a big bag!)
Get Excited!
This day is all about you, so if you have the opportunity to plan an entire day for yourself, do it!
Have your hair and makeup done in a way similar to what you would like on your big day. Accuracy is not important here, it’s more about the style (hair down/updo/half up, half down etc.) and feeling confident and beautiful. You don’t want to be hungry when dress shopping so make sure to eat and to do something fun before your appointment. It is so important to be in the right mindset and to feel good about yourself when you’re trying on dresses. You also want to choose your posse carefully; bring people you have fun with who have your best interest at heart.
Document Each Dress
Take pictures! Take notes! Have someone take one or two good pictures of you in all the dresses you try on and don’t delete any. As you are trying them on, sort them into different folders so you can show bridal stylists which you like and which you dislike. It also helps to come up with nicknames so you can refer to dresses quickly within your group.
Trust Your Gut
This is the most important piece of advice you will ever receive about your wedding. Trust your gut. No one knows you better than you know yourself and if you get a good or bad feeling about any dress, trust it. At the end of the day your feelings and opinions are the only ones that matter. Your wedding, your dress, your decision.
Unfortunately, trying on wedding dresses and feeling beautiful is not the only thing you need to do before getting married. (How amazing would that be though?!) Thankfully, YouForever is here to guide you step-by-step with ideas and planning because we want to make sure that the day you marry your forever person will become a forever memory.
Whether it’s a wedding, rehearsal dinner, engagement or anniversary, birthday or graduation, get in touch today and let’s plan your perfect day!
Image credits:
Photo by Vasily Koloda on Unsplash
Photo by Scott Broome on Unsplash
Photo by Anna Docking on Unsplash
Congratulations! You’ve found your forever person, but now comes the tricky part: proposing with the perfect engagement ring! Luckily, we’re here to give you some advice on what to look for and where to find the best engagement rings in Canada.
Consider Which Engagement Rings Are in Your Price Range
An engagement ring is a significant gesture, but there is no reason to spend outside of your budget. You do have the cost of a wedding to keep in mind! First of all, it’s best to get an understanding of your partner’s preferences. If they would prefer something subtle, it will be much less expensive than something big and sparkly. When choosing what to spend, a good rule of thumb is to set aside around two to three months’ worth of your salary.
Decide on a Metal Type
The four most popular metal types for engagements rings in Canada are White Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold and Platinum. When choosing a metal for the band of the ring, an easy tip is to take a look at the colours in your partner’s wardrobe and the jewellery they already wear. Look at the rings they currently wear to find out their ring size or sneakily ask their bestie if you can.
If you’re looking for a metal that will stand the test of time, choose a more durable material like yellow gold and platinum. From the data on engagement rings people bought in Canada, white gold and rose gold are quickly becoming the number-one choice, but they do need slightly more care to retain their beauty, as they are softer metals and can corrode over time. You can pick various weights of these too, depending on how dense you would like the ring band.
Choose Between Diamonds, Gemstones… or Both!
Diamonds
Let’s talk diamonds. Choose something that best fits your partner’s personality and lifestyle. They may prefer a classic style such as Solitaires, or a three-stone engagement ring. Perhaps they have a love for all things contemporary and would suit a sparkling pavé style, or a band with diamond and gemstone accents instead. If they love the outdoors, they might prefer organic elements, such as a twisted band mixed with decorative floral additions.
Gemstones
Let’s not forget about Gemstones. Although diamonds are said to be higher in value than gemstones, you might like to propose with something less traditional. This is where you can have a little fun and choose from a variety of colours! Popular gemstones are sapphires, rubies and emeralds because they are tough, making them an ideal piece to wear daily. Another enjoyable aspect is to look up what certain gemstone colours symbolize, which helps create more meaning behind the colour you choose for your partner.
Consider Adding an Engraving
A rising trend is to add a special engraving for an additional surprise and to make the ring even more unique to your partner. If you’re thinking about creating a custom piece, adding a few thoughtful words or letters to your band makes for a wonderful family heirloom for generations to come.
Where to Find Engagement Rings in Canada
Ready to shop for something they’ll never forget? Take your pick from these jewellers to get started.
Crest Jewellers
This family-owned business has more than 30 years of experience in guiding couples through their important ring decisions with kindness and clarity.
Ecksand
Book a virtual design consultation and learn all about their wonderful values, such as providing sustainable jewellery, all carefully crafted and at unparalleled prices.
Luxury Diamonds
Based in downtown Vancouver, they pride themselves on offering a personalized service while making it an easy and fun experience.
Cavalier Gastown
Have a team of specialists help you in a boutique setting, by appointment. You’ll be given expert advice as well as guidance on custom ring-design requests.
Era Design
Choose your ideal ring in a “no pressure” east Vancouver studio, all made by local craftspeople. Be inspired by their selection of rare gemstones and unusual pieces.
Need help with setting up a beautiful engagement backdrop or event? We can create the ideal celebration from start to finish. Contact us today and let’s get planning!
Now you’ve decided on a ring, take a look at our engagement ideas or our guide on how to surprise your partner! It’s also never too early to start thinking about venues.
Deciding to make a commitment to your significant other, to love and grow with them every day, is life-changing. Your wedding engagement should reflect your love and your life together so you can look back on this day and remember exactly why you chose your partner. Here are some tips to consider when planning your wedding proposal to ensure the day is as special and unique as your relationship.
Will Your Proposal Have a Theme?
When thinking about the theme, consider important dates you have both shared, such as your first date, the first time you knew you were in love with your partner, or the first time you said: “I love you.” You want your significant other to feel special so think of five things to describe your significant other and incorporate those qualities in items or symbols. Also, think of your partner’s two favourite things – these could be anything: astrology, nature, sports, animals, Disney, etc., and try to incorporate them into this special day.
Where to Pop the Question
Think of favourite places you have both shared and love. Preferably a location where something significant to the both of you has happened. An example could be the beach, a restaurant, a stadium, the mountains, a specific city, etc.
Choosing an Engagement Ring
Rings are a symbol of commitment to one another and a symbol of eternal love. When picking out a ring, there are a few things you have to know.
- What type of ring do they like? The best way to find this out is by observing their day-to-day jewelry or walking by stores to see what catches their eye.
- What type of stone do they like? Do they like the traditional diamond ring, or do they like emerald, sapphire or pearl? You could also opt for a classy white gold or more traditional yellow gold band if they have a simpler taste.
If you really do not trust your own judgement, don’t be scared to ask your partner’s friends and family! They are a great resource to find out this type of information, and if you’re lucky, they might find out exactly what your partner likes.
Other Considerations for Your Wedding Engagement
It can be hard to decide whether or not to have an intimate or a social engagement. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to a wedding proposal because every couple and every person is different. You know your partner best, but if you are struggling to decide what to do, these are the questions you should be asking yourself:
- Does my partner like surprises?
- Are they shy or outgoing?
- How close are they to our friends and families?
- Is this milestone in your relationship something you would want to share with others at that moment?
Remember, these are just guidelines; this is ultimately about you and your partner. This next step in your life is a special milestone. Don’t forget that this is as much your partner’s day as it is yours. Don’t forget to also think about how you imagined your wedding engagement when you first found THE ONE!
If you would like to plan an engagement dinner, event or party, You Forever can help! We are event planners in Vancouver, specializing in various events, like weddings, engagement parties, and more. We would love to help you make this moment one you’ll never forget, get in touch with us today!