Wedding Wednesday: Confessions of a Bridal Stylist

When I quit my big girl job last January to go back to school I took on a part time role as a bridal stylist. In my role as a stylist I learned many tricks of the trade to make wedding dress shopping a positive experience for brides and their consultants.

//1// HAVE A VOICE
I couldn't believe how many brides came in and just didn't speak. I'd ask an opinion of a dress that she had it on and she would just stare blankly into the mirror. Bridal stylists don't know what dresses to pull or what direction to go  if you don't give feedback. It's ok if you don't know what you want. You can always start by telling your stylist what you don't want.

//2// COME IN FRESH
This my nice way of saying make sure you shower. You wouldn't believe how many smelly, sweating brides come in. Make sure to freshen up and use deodorant before your appointment. Those rooms are small and you and your stylist will be in very tight quarters together for the majority of your appointment.

//3// DON'T YOUNG CHILDREN
A lot of brides bring small family members thinking that these little girls will be an awe of the moment. They never are. These little princess are antsy and really don't comprehend what's going on. Wait until they are 7 or 8 and can really understand and enjoy the moment.

//5// BE KIND TO YOUR STYLIST
Things are always changing. New dresses and new sales pop up in the store every day. Be patient with us while we try to adapt to the day to day changes.

//6// BE MINDFUL OF YOUR APPOINTMENT TIME
Most bridal shops allow one to one and half hour appointments for bridal sessions. Most days stores have back to back appointments. It's really awkward for stylists to have to tell their brides to be that time is up. I loved my brides who would check in with me about how much time they had left.

//7// REMEMBER IT'S THE BRIDE'S DAY
Brides - it's ok for you to be selfish on this day. You're the one who is going to be wearing this dress and your dress will be immortalized in your wedding photos. Friends and family - it's her day. Just because you wouldn't wear the particular styles the bride is trying on doesn't mean it's not a lovely dress. It's about her style, not yours. I've seen so many friends and family members talk the bride out of her dream dress because it wasn't their cup of tea.

//8// WEAR CUTE UNDERGARMENTS
Your bridal stylist will see you in your skivvies. A cute panty and bra set will make everyone feel more comfortable.

//9// LEAVE THE ENTOURAGE AT HOME
Bring only 2 or 3 of your favorite people. There isn't room in the salon for every bride to bring a party of 5+ to her appointment. There isn't enough space and too many opinions become confusing for the bride.

//10// DON'T STRESS
Picking out a wedding dress should be a fun and memorable experience. If you feel yourself getting stressed, call it a day and come back another time.