Timeline to purchase Your Wedding Gown

Believe it or not (and you should believe us because we've been in this industry for over two decades), brides-to-be walk into our boutique a few weeks before their wedding day looking for their dream gown. They're excited, they have a wish list, and we hate to ruin that buzz, but the truth is this: there is a 95% chance that they are not going to get "The Dress" they truly want for their big day. But you don't have to despair. Plan ahead if you can - and read on, because there are options for you if you've run out of time. 

When this happens, you have to know that we SO want to wave a wand, like the fairy godmother in Cinderella, and whip up a frock just for you out of thin air and hope. What we can do is see what is on our racks or can be acquired quickly. We ask that brides keep an open mind when it comes to their wish lists, whether they've given themselves 12 months or 4 weeks. Brides are often amazed at how many beautiful gowns are available off the rack. So breathe and be flexible. We at BT are always ready to work with you.

photo credit: Walt Disney

HOw much time to Choose Your Gown

So here is what you should keep in mind if you're engaged and have begun planning. 
If you come into our boutique 3 - 4 months before your wedding date, you can expect to buy off the rack. You will have a gown to wear down the aisle and we do not stock ugly gowns, ladies! Our off the rack gowns are wonderful, and brides leave with them truly excited, but you may not get everything on your list.
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We recommend that brides order a dress between 9 and 12 months before their wedding date, and 6 months at the bare minimum. Keep in mind this is specific recommendation for our store and this timeline will be different at different boutiques.

Why Do you Need this Amount of Time?

When you find your gown, you rarely walk out of the store with a big white garment bag slung over your shoulder. If you do, God bless you. But in most cases, your dress is ordered from the factory, and goes into production so it can be created in your size and colors choice. This takes time.

There are no warehouses filled with multiple sizes of every single gown designed by every designer on the planet. This is not fast fashion that ends up at H&M or Old Navy. Wedding gowns take time, whether they have tons of beading, crystals, or sequins, or lace. Even minimalist gowns have to be sewn and created for you. You want a gorgeous look for your day and that means allowing the gown to be made for you. ​

If you have questions for us, we hope that you'll reach out, but the bottom line with is DO NOT WAIT to order your wedding gown. Give yourself the treat of spending time with us. We have bridal suites and experiences, superb vendors and amazing relationships with everyone with whom we work. 

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