As you begin planning your wedding you no doubt will begin to imagine yourself wearing the perfect gown. As simple as that dream sounds you will first need to try on some (possibly many) gowns. Before you head out the door, here are a few tips to help you make a well-informed decision.

• Look through bridal magazines to get a feel for different styles of gowns. This will help you narrow down your choices once you arrive at the bridal shop.

• Bring a friends or two who will offer you an objective opinion.

• Ask your bridal consultant for advice. Remember they do this for a living and they are often very good at knowing what style dress may complement or detract from your figure.

• Don't be so set in your ideas of what you want your dress to look like that you avoid trying on something completely different, if nothing else it may just give you a better idea of what you don't want.

• Remember less is often best. This is especially true on a smaller bride that can be overwhelmed by too much detail. Don't forget to look at the price tag. Unless your budget is flexible don't even bother trying on a gown that's out of your price range. Many bridal shops carry dresses for larger size brides. Don't hesitate to call ahead of time to make sure the shop you're planning on has them in stock for trying on.

• Make sure the weight of the material you are looking at is appropriate for the season your wedding will be in.

• Don't be afraid to try on different colors. Depending on your complexion and hair color an off-white or cream colored gown may look better on you than a traditional white gown.

• Don't feel rushed to make a decision or to buy a dress the first time you look. Taking time to think it over when you are at home often gives you a clearer idea of what you want.

• Ask your bridal shop if you can take a picture of the gown on you. Referring to these pictures at home may help you narrow down your choices or make a final decision.

• If you know exactly what you want and you can't find it anywhere consider going to a custom gown designer to create your own unique look.

• Try on different petticoats with your gown, depending on the style of the dress a fuller petticoat may be more appropriate.

ONCE YOU HAVE CHOSEN A GOWN . . . . .

• Ask for a swatch of the gown. This will be helpful in matching flower and cake colors as well as accessory pieces. Do the same for your attendant's dresses.

• Ask about alterations, most bridal shops will be able to do any alterations for you but prices may vary, it never hurts the budget to shop around.

• If you have a bustled train have someone who will be with you on your wedding day come to the shop to learn how to bustle your train appropriately.

ACCESSORIES

• When choosing a veil make sure it is the same color as the gown, this seems obvious but it is often an overlooked detail especially if choosing a veil at a different shop than your gown.

• Veils and headpieces are a beautiful finishing touch to your bridal look, but keep in mind a head piece that is too big can overwhelm the bride.

• If you have a particular hairstyle in mind for your wedding day make sure your veil is compatible with the look you are trying to achieve.

• When purchasing shoes the most important thing is comfort!! Your wedding day is often a long day of standing and dancing, the last thing you need is tired feet.

• If you are planning an outdoor wedding spiked heels will probably sink into the grass, making walking difficult at best. A better bet is a squared heel and preferably not a cloth shoe, they tend to become stained more easily.

• Be sure your shoes match the color and style of your dress.

• If you and your partner are close to the same height, the height of your heels may be important to consider.