Love & Light Photographs

Deciding on a budget
"Traditional wedding guidelines say that your dress should be 10% of your overall wedding budget, but if your dress is a priority for you, then it's absolutely ok for it to be more than 10% of your budget, and vice versa. Just remember that with any wedding category, you get what you pay for!" explains Leggett.

If your budget is flexible, set a "scary number"- this is the cost you absolutely cannot go over. "Don't be shy about your budget, there's no right or wrong number," says Lauren Hartman of Trousseau Style. "Make sure you factor in alterations and the rest of your fashion elements into your budget - your veil, shoes, jewelry and clutch will add up fast."

The bridal appointment
For your first appointment, go somewhere with a variety of styles for you to try. The first time shopping is about honing in what you like, and potentially finding some favorites. Visit around 3-4 shops, this way you know you've seen a good variety and won't get overwhelmed.

Some salons will limit the number of guests you are allowed to bring and this is for your own benefit! Too many guests tend to take the focus off the bride and too many opinions do not help in making a painless decision.

"Choose a dress you feel confident, comfortable and beautiful in. Opinions are great, but remember this is your day and you get the final say," says Hartman.

"I normally would try to tell my brides sleeping on it is a good idea, so they don't get buyers remorse," advises Melissa Laws of BHLDN Chicago." I think they should feel sure about themselves when they're saying yes to the dress."