For the last few weeks, I have been sharing a chapter each week from my bridal book, Sixteen Steps to “I Do”: A Wedding Planning Roadmap for Joy, Ease, and Savings.

I wrote this book to help brides navigate the practical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of wedding planning. Inside are the lessons, tools, and encouragement I wish I’d had during my engagement season, along with everything I learned along the way.

Whether you’re a bride, a friend, a mother of the bride, or simply enjoy following along with the projects and lessons God places on my heart, I hope this chapter offers encouragement and practical value to you or someone you love.

Today, I’m sharing Chapter Seven:

Saying "Yes" to the Dress

Enjoy 🤍

Maybe you’ve dreamed of your wedding dress long before getting engaged and already have a clear vision in mind. Or perhaps you’re entering this part of the journey with no idea where to begin. Wherever you find yourself, I recommend starting the process early, even if that simply means booking a few appointments to explore your options. Some dresses can take several months to arrive and require alterations, while others are available almost immediately.

As you begin your dress search, let’s walk through a few key considerations before saying “yes.”

Dress Shopping Considerations

Stay Open

The dress you love might come from somewhere you didn’t expect—or be a style you never planned to try on. Explore a variety of places, and remember: consultants see dozens of brides each week, all with different shapes, sizes, and skin tones. They often have an eye that you don’t. I personally wouldn’t have tried on my dress if it weren’t for my consultant choosing it!

Price and Designer Bias

We’ve all heard the phrase, “You get what you pay for.” When it comes to weddings, it can feel like an unspoken rule—the more expensive means better service, better quality, and a more magical experience. Sometimes, that’s true. But other times, a higher price tag is just a higher price tag. This is especially worth remembering as you shop for dresses. You don’t need the best of the best. You just need what’s best for you.

Beware of False Urgency

Some dresses can take months to arrive, but don’t let that become a reason to rush your decision. If you’re completely certain, that’s different. But try to block out the pressure and give yourself at least one day to reflect before committing. The right dress will feel good in all the right ways.

Photography and Movement

When you try on dresses (and shoes for that matter) move around in them—sit, walk, twirl. Your dress should feel beautiful and comfortable for those real-life moments, not just mirror photos.

Accessories

If there are sentimental pieces you already know you want to wear or highlight, it helps to keep them in mind while shopping, or even bring them along. Whether it’s a necklace, crown, veil, or earrings, seeing them with different styles can help you envision the full look.

A Gentle Note on Company

Inviting friends to dress shop can be so much fun, but sometimes, too many voices can make the process confusing. Trust your instincts rather than trying to please a crowd. Consider inviting one or two people whose opinions you genuinely value and trust.

Returns

Before purchasing, ask about the boutique’s return, exchange, and alteration policies—especially if your gown is made-to-order or final sale. Most wedding dresses are non-refundable, so take your time and be confident before you say “yes.”

Should I Wear More Than One Dress?

That choice is completely up to you and depends on a variety of factors. I stayed in my wedding dress the entire night because I knew I’d never wear it again and wanted to embrace every moment in it. However, an outfit change can be both fun and practical.

One thing worth considering is comfort. You’ll likely be wearing your dress for eight to twelve hours. Think about how heavy it feels, whether it’s easy to move in, and how it fits when you sit, walk, hug people, dance, or use the restroom.

If you’d prefer something lighter for the reception or simply want a different look for the evening, a second dress may be worth considering. There isn’t a right or wrong choice. It’s simply about what will help you enjoy your wedding day the most.

Behind the Scenes

I visited seven bridal shops and tried on nearly twenty gowns. I was sure I’d find my dream dress at one of those luxury Toronto boutiques—the ones with chandeliers, champagne, and beautiful couches. In the end, my dress came from a run-down, budget-friendly store in a quiet plaza I almost skipped when I drove in. The gown was brand new, ready in just two weeks, and cost one-third of what I was about to pay at another shop.

I also had the most fabulous and knowledgable experience with the consultant. She picked the dress I wasn’t even going to try on. She had the eye to see what I didn’t.

Sometimes the best things come from the most unexpected places—and that truth doesn’t just apply to your dress, but to your venue, your décor, and everything else along the way.

Reflection Questions

1. What words come to mind when I picture my dress—elegant, modern, regal, minimal?

2. Am I considering the venue and setting, and how my dress will complement them?

3. Who do I trust to come with me to appointments, if anyone?

4. Have I thought through the accessories and beauty details that will complete my wedding day look?

5. Are there expectations—mine or someone else’s—that I might need to gently let go of?

Action Plan

1. Collect and save the dress styles you love. Use Instagram, Pinterest, or bridal magazines to create a visual inspiration board.

2. Schedule appointments at a variety of bridal boutiques. You never know!

3. Bring only the people whose presence brings peace and encouragement

4. Practice moving in your dress, and take photos or videos at your fittings. Reviewing them later can help you notice how you truly feel in each one.

5. Be mindful to block out external pressure or “limited-time” offers. Take the time to be confident in your yes.

Your wedding dress is often one of the most memorable parts of your wedding planning journey. I hope this chapter has brought you greater confidence, clarity, and joy as you navigate this exciting season.

No matter what dress you choose, I know you’ll look radiant.

Now, let’s turn our attention to another important part of planning: finding your vendors and building your dream team.

Xo

Natalie Grace

Did you find this chapter helpful?

Before the book officially launches, I’d love to share a collection of complimentary resources from the book, including:

• A 12-Month Wedding Planning Timeline

• Final Steps to “I Do” Checklist

• Wedding Day and Marriage prayer

Access Free Resources