By: Stéphane Dosko

Anna Giannopoulos, Manager of Nicholas and Elizabeth Bridal in London, Ontario was able to show me some of the new collections in fashion for Spring 2005.

Breathtakingly warm colours of golds, mochas, Champagne, and diamond white are the most popular shades in gowns for this season. Romance is the key to the look, with timeless, strapless, corseted backs, satin sashes, and bows. Elegant and simple lines are a must in today’s world of bridal.

When it’s time for you to start looking for the dress, I asked Anna proper etiquette for the bride to be. Here is what she suggested: 

1. Be honest with the salon that you’re in.  If you have been to another store and they have a dress that you like, but you're just checking your options, let the attendant know. Feel free to be honest with the staff.  And remember, the objective is not to get the stores to compete, but to allow them to help you make the right decision.
2. To know if you’re in the right place, a good sales representative will be honest with you. If you look right, they will tell you. If you do not, they should tell you that as well. There are, literally, hundreds of gowns to choose from, and if choosing the one that is right for you was easy, any old gown would do. But that's not the way things work. The sales representative is there to advise and help you. Use their advice because they want repeat business and if you look good on your special day, it reflects well on them.  
3. Let the sales rep know if you’re on a weight loss program. When you’re measured, be prepared to return to the bridal salon for a few more fittings as you're losing the weight.
4. If you’re planning on a large weight loss, be careful not to get the dress too soon.  Sometimes, a bride can lose too much, and because of appliqué or cuts of a gown, the alterations may not be possible.
5. Be a responsible customer.  Remember you’re in a bridal salon and you're preparing for your special day. Make sure you wear the proper undergarments.  A bustier or strapless bra should always be worn when trying on gowns.
6. Be prepared to have the sales representative assist you in the change room with the gown.
7. Be considerate. Try not to wear heavy perfumes when trying on dresses.  Remember, that if it is not the dress for you, then it could be another special bride's to try on and purchase. Perfumes can stain and make a gown smell like, well, you! And whereas that might be right for you, it won't be right for everyone. Otherwise, there'd only be one brand of perfume and a trip through any department store will definitely tell you that is not the case. 
8. Be realistic as to cost. A bride should be prepared to pay $800-$1,200 for her gown. This is an average price point.
9. Order early. It is very important to order your dress at least 9 months before the wedding. Most often, you're trying on a sample size, therefore your dress will have to be ordered and made. This will also help you if you have to do a payment plan on the gown.
10. Finally, always remember, that it’s your day first, not that of your friends or relatives! They'll be there to love and support you, but you are the centre of attention. And, deservedly so.

One final tip, I always suggest bringing a digital camera or Polaroid camera to the stores.  This way, when you have picked your dress, you can bring a photo of yourself and the dress you have chosen to the hair stylist and makeup artist to discuss the look you want to create. Visuals always help professionals and they appreciate your effort.