Brides-to-be, you should think carefully about your budget and realistically about how much you’re prepared to spend to get the dress of your dreams. To get an idea of what you like start scouting magazines to see what appeals, or do a bit of window shopping to see what is on-trend. Current styles are moving away from strapless designs, as they have to be extremely fitted to stay put and what this does to a bride’s back is rarely flattering. Instead, cap sleeves, or detailed sleeves featuring lace or beading is very popular.

If you are researching ideas online, remember that ordering your dress via the internet may save a few dollars, but comes with a host of risks. In fact, ordering online very rarely produces a happy outcome and according to expert dressfitters, is usually associated with disappointment and costly last minute fixes.

One of the best ways to achieve a happy outcome is to use the knowledge and expertise of professional wedding dress retailers. The major advantage of opting for the personal touch is you can have your gown fitted properly to ensure you look stunning on your wedding day.

Finding the ideal wedding dress should be an enjoyable and personal experience and the entire exercise should be very hands on. You should expect excellent customer service and assistants who do everything to make the dress right for you. You don’t get this when ordering online. You should also be aware you might not find a seamstress that will be prepared to work with what you have received. This advice is reiterated by local retailers. Many of them have seen their fair share of brides-to-be rush into the shop lamenting about their internet purchase. They say the dresses are very poor quality and lack internal structure.

Dresses should be fitted properly. They aren’t made from stretch material so remember that even if you send off your measurements, it’s not the same as having a dress fitted and fine-tuned in store.

Finding the right dress can be a year-long process. Once you have chosen, it may take four to six months for the gown to arrive and then final adjustments to be made about two to three months prior to the wedding day.

When choosing your gown, remember to consider your big day location. A traditional wedding calls for a classic, formal style and an outdoor affair might call for a flowy silk sheath or empire waist gown. Choose the right colour for your skin tone, remembering that stark white doesn’t necessarily suit everyone.

Don’t be close-minded and stuck on a single style. Be open to suggestions, especially from the experts who deal with brides on a daily basis. Try on something outside of your comfort zone, you may be surprised.

Don’t be afraid to personalise your look with the right accessories. Try some statement bling for maximum impact, or for a classic twist choose diamonds and pearls.

Don’t overdo it and let any single element of your big day look overpower you. From your hair and make-up to jewellery and dress, remember you want to be the centre of attention, not your gown or hairstyle.