It's a shock, but 6 months before the wedding date is the time to order those gowns!

If you initially think that is ridiculous. We don't need to do that. No. You DO NEED to. Why? Because getting your dress after the wedding is not an option. And nobody wants to pay the dreaded RUSH FEE. We have not and never will have a dress too late for a wedding. So we insist these get ordered early. The earlier the better, we say. “But wait” you say. I want to lose weight before I buy.” Trust me, I’ve heard and seen it all and you will not lose enough weight to make this dress incapable of being altered to fit you. And while we are on the subject, these dresses will need to be altered.

Ok, so here's ACTUALLY why. The manufacturer of these dresses does not have a huge warehouse full of dresses in every possible size and color combination you can come up with. They produce these dresses because you order them. So let's take a look at the time line and why it is so important to your wedding.

1) You’ve chosen the wedding dress and now it's time to think about those BFF’s who will be supporting you in this adventure!
2) You decide how you want your bridesmaids dressed: all in the same color and same dress, different gowns, same color, same dress different colors...whatever it is that you decide!
3) You and your maid of honor meet at Customary Couture to choose the look you want. You let the rest of the party know the style and color that you want and they each need to come in to be measured for their dress. (Please don’t leave this up to them just because they are going to wear it. This makes Bridesmaids CRAZY!)
4) As each person comes in for their measurements (or calls them in, for those out-of-towners) (which can take longer than you think...they are busy girls!) we record their information in the computer until each person has given measurements and payment.
5) ONCE WE HAVE EVERYONE’S Info THEN we are able to place the order with the manufacturer! The reason we wait to order all of the dresses at the same time is to ensure that they all are cut from the exact same color fabric. Fabric is dyed in lots and there can be slight differences in shade between these lots. By ordering them all at the same time we avoid difference in color and make sure all the dresses are shipped to us together.
6) THE DRESSES ARRIVE! YAY!! Now it's time for your girls to start picking them up (which can take longer than you think...again they are busy girls!) and having their alterations done. Length, bust line, or side seam alterations are common and simple but do take time. Which is just another reason why giving yourself breathing room is so important.

When it’s all said and done and you add all of this up it comes too...6 months!
OH NO! I DIDN'T KNOW THAT AND IT'S ONLY 3 MONTHS AWAY!!!

Just breathe...you are probably still ok. We are able to get dresses on a RUSH 9 weeks but there is an additional $40 fee added. Or we can get the dresses in 6-8 weeks but it's going to be an extra $60 per dress. But sweetie you need to order NOW!
That about sums up the explanation of that originally silly sounding 6 months before the wedding date!

Here are a few ways to show off your personality with a dash of color while still allowing YOU and your gown to shine.

Step out in a bold pair of SHOES... Give typical, traditional pumps the boot and try something Blue, Pink, or even covered in Glitter.

Add a FLOWER... Either real or faux, flowers enhance the beauty of the dress without being a distraction.

Rethink the WHITE gown... try a gown in Blush, Ivory, Gold, or Champagne. This opens the door for a little extra surprise when you walk down the aisle.

Catch them off guard with your JEWELRY... Try a chunky necklace, dropped earrings, or layered bangles to make a shimmering statement.

Put on a JACKET... Whether its textured, floral,lace or colored, a jacket is a great way to make a statement while adding a new twist. Great for pictures, it's also nice for those chilly evenings.
*** Bonus *** you can wear your jacket after the wedding with a great pair of jeans and maybe your fun shoes!!!

We came across a similar article in Brides Magazine and used our expertise to ensure you get the most out of your Bridal appointment.

1. Nice but modest panties (though as long as you have on something thats all we ask)

2. If you have bodacious ta ta's please bring a supportive strapless bra (if you have an average size bust we have many bras available)

3. Freshly shaved armpits and legs- they'll be on display, too. (Though really we don't care if your hairy as long as you don't smell)

4. A shoe with the heel height you'll probably wear with the dress. (though we sell shoes as well)

5. An elastic band or hair clip, if you'll be wearing your hair up (you'll want to see the necklines and try on veils)

6. Your mom and maid of honor (ditch the posse- there is such a thing as too many opinions)

7. Your wallet- we take cash, check,MC.Visa and Discover
don't be afraid to purchase your dress on the first visit.

Helpful hints from Brides Magazine...

Don't Walk into a salon without a rough idea of you budget. A realistic number now will help you avoid disppointment later.

Do Be honest with your consultant about what you can spend. Trying on dresses that are out of your price range is a waste of your time and hers.