Planning a destination wedding is an exciting and adventurous way to celebrate your love in a picturesque setting surrounded by your closest family and friends. Whether you’re saying “I do” on a sandy beach, in a charming European village, or atop a majestic mountain, finding the perfect wedding dress for your destination celebration is essential. In this blog post, we’ll share everything you need to know about destination wedding dress shopping, from selecting the perfect gown to practical tips for traveling with your dress.
1. Consider Your Destination:
The first step in destination wedding dress shopping is considering the location and setting of your wedding. Different destinations call for different dress styles and fabrics, so it’s essential to choose a gown that suits the climate, terrain, and overall vibe of your wedding venue. For beach weddings, lightweight and flowy fabrics like chiffon, organza, and silk are ideal for keeping cool and comfortable in the sun and sand. For mountain or winter weddings, consider heavier fabrics like satin, taffeta, or velvet to keep warm in colder temperatures.
2. Choose Practical and Packable Fabrics:
When selecting a wedding dress for your destination celebration, it’s important to choose practical and packable fabrics that will withstand travel and transportation. Opt for fabrics that are wrinkle-resistant, lightweight, and easy to steam or press upon arrival at your destination. Avoid bulky or delicate fabrics that may be prone to wrinkling or damage during transit, and opt for more forgiving materials that can withstand the journey with minimal fuss.
3. Plan Ahead for Alterations:
If you’re purchasing your wedding dress locally but getting married abroad, it’s essential to plan ahead for alterations and fittings. Schedule your alterations appointments well in advance to allow for any necessary adjustments and alterations before your departure. Consider bringing your dress with you to your destination or arranging for a local seamstress to make any final tweaks and adjustments upon arrival. Planning ahead ensures that your dress fits perfectly and alleviates any last-minute stress or concerns about alterations.
4. Research Local Bridal Boutiques:
If you’re getting married in a destination with limited access to bridal boutiques, consider researching local options for wedding dress shopping. Look for bridal boutiques or bridal salons in your destination city or nearby towns that offer a selection of wedding dresses suitable for your style and budget. Schedule appointments or consultations in advance to ensure that you have plenty of time to try on dresses and find the perfect gown for your destination celebration.
5. Consider Practicality and Comfort:
When choosing a wedding dress for your destination celebration, it’s essential to consider practicality and comfort. Opt for styles that are easy to move and dance in, especially if you’re getting married outdoors or in a non-traditional venue. Consider the terrain and environment of your destination when selecting dress styles and hem lengths to ensure that your gown is suitable for walking, standing, and posing for photos in various settings.
6. Plan for Transportation and Storage:
Finally, it’s important to plan for transportation and storage of your wedding dress when traveling to your destination. Invest in a durable garment bag or travel case to protect your dress during transit, and consider purchasing insurance for added peace of mind. Pack your dress in your carry-on luggage or as a separate item to ensure that it arrives safely at your destination, and hang it up or lay it flat upon arrival to allow any wrinkles to naturally fall out.
Destination wedding dress shopping requires careful planning and consideration to ensure that you find the perfect gown for your far-flung celebration. By considering your destination, choosing practical and packable fabrics, planning ahead for alterations, researching local bridal boutiques, prioritizing comfort and practicality, and planning for transportation and storage, you can ensure that your wedding dress shopping experience is smooth, stress-free, and ultimately, unforgettable. At Lakeside Bridal, we’re here to help you find the perfect wedding dress for your destination celebration, no matter where in the world you say “I do.” Schedule an appointment with us today, and let us help you find the dress of your dreams for your dream destination wedding.