Engaged, Now What? How to Begin Your Wedding Dress Journey

Congratulations, you're engaged! First of all, take a moment to soak it all in. Pop the champagne, share the news, and enjoy that beautiful sparkle on your finger!

Once the initial excitement settles (just a little!), one of the most fun - and sometimes most daunting - tasks begins: finding your dream wedding dress. At Blu Rayne Bridal, we know this is a huge moment, and we're here to help you navigate it with joy and ease.

So, where do you start?

A bride and groom stand arm-in-arm, smiling, in front of a rustic wooden door. The bride wears a white gown and holds a bouquet, radiating joy.

Allure Bridals A1402

A woman in a strapless, intricately beaded white wedding dress stands against a soft beige background, exuding elegance and confidence.

Allure Couture C804NC

The Golden Rule: Start Early!
This is the number one piece of advice we can give you. Finding the perfect dress is an amazing process, but it requires a little bit of time management.

We strongly recommend that you start shopping for your wedding dress at least 10–12 months before your wedding date.

model is wearing a sleeveless sheath wedding gown

Justin Alexander
Lupita

Why so early? This timeline is essential for a few key reasons:

Ordering Time: Your dream dress often needs to be specially ordered to fit your unique measurements, and this process can take several months.
Tailoring and Craftsmanship: Some designers, particularly those offering intricate details or custom designs, may have longer lead times. Plus, popular designs can sometimes take longer to arrive!
Alterations: Once your dress arrives, it will need time for fittings and necessary alterations to ensure it fits you perfectly on the big day. Rushing this step is never fun!

By ordering your dress as early as possible, you ensure that you have ample time for all the necessary fittings, alterations, and breathing room - because wedding planning is stressful enough without last-minute dress panic!

It's also worth considering the time of year you plan to get married. If your date falls during a peak wedding season, dress demand might be higher, which can sometimes impact lead times. Starting early helps you beat the rush!

Elegant woman in a sleek white wedding gown with a square neckline and long gloves, leaning against a minimalist white wall. Timeless and sophisticated atmosphere.

Justin Alexander Signature Evoque

A woman in a strapless white lace wedding dress leans against a rustic brick wall, smiling. Soft sunlight filters through greenery, creating a romantic atmosphere.

Maggie Sottero Serafina Lane

Short Engagement? No Problem!
If you're planning a shorter engagement and don't have the luxury of 10-12 months, don't worry! We've got you covered.

At Blu Rayne Bridal, we have a beautiful and diverse collection of off-the-rack wedding dresses. These gowns are available to take home the same day, making them the perfect solution for brides needing a stunning dress with a shorter timeline.

Your wedding dress journey should be magical, not maniacal. By starting early, you can relax, enjoy the process, and truly savor the moment when you find "the one."

A woman in a strapless white gown stands on a terrace with lush greenery. She exudes elegance with a confident pose and serene expression under a clear sky.

Sottero and Midgley Kincaid

A woman in a delicate, strapless white gown with pink floral embroidery holds the flowing dress. The mood is elegant and serene.

Rebecca Ingram Blossom

Ready to say yes to the dress?

Your dream dress awaits! Click here to book your personalized bridal appointment with Blu Rayne Bridal today!