Original Drawings by Catie Stricker-Howell (Catie the Sketch Lady)

The KEY to remember: If you plan ahead, you’ll stress less!

BRIDAL

The majority of bridal gowns will take at least 4 months to come in after your order is placed IF there are no changes made to the gown (i.e. petite version, 3” or 5” shorter or longer, hollow to hem, and other custom changes). If there will be custom changes you may have to wait at least 6 months before your dress arrives. With that in mind, ideally you should start looking for your gown about 1 year in advance. You need to allow time for alterations, and depending on where you purchase your gown, you could be waiting quite a few months.

Original Drawings by Catie Stricker-Howell (Catie the Sketch Lady)

How do I create the perfect look for my wedding?

The perfect look always starts with the bride’s gown and the bridesmaids’ dresses, as they help determine the color of the tuxedos and the accessories. Venue and time of year also play a large role in what your guys will be wearing. At an outdoor venue during the warmer seasons, lighter colors always look cool, but don’t forget about navy and charcoal. Both colors are very neutral and with the new “superfine” fabrics available, they are just as practical as lighter colors such as sand and silver gray.

 Original Drawings by Catie Stricker-Howell (Catie the Sketch Lady)

“I can’t wear a ball gown. I’m too petite!” 

Actually, a ball gown is very flattering on a petite girl. Once the dress is hemmed, a petite figure can own this silhouette. If the dress still seems overwhelming, some of the crinoline lining the skirt can be removed to cut down on the volume. With ball gowns, it’s more about proportion than body type; and they are actually flattering on most body shapes. Ball gowns accentuate the bust and the waist of most figures while hiding what could be larger hips that may be out of proportion with a woman’s upper half. Some think that the full skirt makes them look hippy, while, in actuality, it hides larger hips. Sometimes a dropped waist on a ball gown will dispel this thought because it accents a beautiful figure while still hiding the lower hips. This special occasion may be the only time you get to wear a ball gown and be a “Princess”, so don’t rule this style out.