The Roundup: Words To Live By, A Romantic Gown, And A Fabulous Sale

No matter how hard you try, you just can't seem to see all the beautiful wedding stuff we post from our social media accounts! What if you miss the best words of wisdom, the hottest sale, or - worse yet - THE dress?!? No worries; we're here to help! Right here, right now, we're giving you the best of our social media posts this week:

*** Our Bridal Accessory Event is going on NOW! You could save up to $150 off your accessory selection when you purchase your wedding gown at Suzanne's Bridal Boutique. All the details are on our website.

*** A-line wedding gowns got all the love this week - check out these two beauties...

Gown by House of Wu: Christina Wu

Gown by Kitty Chen Couture

*** And finally, some popular words to live by:

And there you have it! All the best of SBB's social media this week, all in one place! You're welcome. :)

Of course, to catch it all in real time, follow us on:

Facebook: fb.com/suzannesbridalboutique

Twitter: @suzannesbridal

Pinterest: pinterest.com/suzannesbridal

Instagram: @suzannesbridalboutique

Is a Reception Dress a Must Have or a Must Miss?

Kim Kardashian had one, and chances are you’ve known a bride who has had one. But should you have a second dress to wear at your wedding reception? More than just a matter of cost, it is actually quite a debate.

The arguments against having a second dress are pretty straightforward. You’ve put so much energy into finding the perfect dress, why take it off early? By focusing your attention on choosing one dress, you can have the full budget and time to find a dress that suits both ceremony and reception. It also means that you carry on the same style throughout all the day’s photos.

Those who argue for a second dress do make some compelling points themselves, though. A second dress allows you to choose something far less formal for the evening reception. This can also mean that you don’t need to worry about damaging your wedding gown while you’re eating or dancing. If you are wearing a family gown for the ceremony, a reception dress allows you to show off your own style.

What do you think about brides wearing a second dress? Will you wear one or two dresses on your wedding day? In either case, you’ll need to shop at a fantastic Phoenix bridal salon. Give us a call today to find out more about what we offer!

Photo: Flickr/2Lynda27

How to Find the Perfect Wedding Dress

Shopping for your wedding dress should be a fun and memorable experience. Unfortunately, the amount of pressure and stress that a bride feels is very common. The wedding dress shopping experience can start with excitement and turn into exhaustion when you can't seem to find what you envision. Here are some tips that will help you find the perfect wedding dress:

1. Location

The venue you choose and the theme of your wedding serves as the foundation for your dress choice. If you are getting married on the beach, you can cross ball gowns and dramatic trains off your list. If you are getting married in a church, this eliminates shorter dresses and low-cut backs. The climate in your locale is also one to take into consideration. Warmer weather calls for linen and organdy while velvet and brocade are better suited for colder climates.

2. Set your budget and stick to it!

Trying on the perfect wedding dress that is way out of your price range is a surefire way to put a damper on the rest of your experience. Make sure you not only set a budget but also inform the salesperson before she starts bringing you your gowns when you go wedding dress shopping. The entire look can cost 10-15% of your wedding budget. Don't forget to consider alterations and shipping costs.

3. Start looking early

The perfect time to start looking for your perfect wedding dress is six to nine months before you say "I do." Once you pick the one it takes three to four months for it to be made and another to months for fittings and alterations. If you are picking a gown with a lot of detail it will take even longer. Some stores do offer rush orders, but your choices are limited and it will cost an additional fee.

4. Second Opinions

Making the decision alone can be difficult. Bringing a few close confidants whose opinions are trustworthy can help ease the decision. Invite people that know your taste and will respect your ultimate decision. The last thing you want is butting heads that can make the time spent shopping frustrating and tiring.

5. Choose the fit, not on the size

Many brides are discouraged when they find out their wedding dress size is four times bigger than what they typically wear. A bride that is normally an 8 may find that she fits better in a 12. Always get the size that fits best, even if you plan on losing weight before the big day. Gowns are always easier to take in!

Feel free to go through our collection to find a dress that may be perfect for your big day.

Trend Alert: Off-the-Shoulder Wedding Gowns

If you’re following the biggest wedding dress trends for 2013 and 2014, you’ve certainly seen the off-the-shoulder gown. It’s a designer favorite this year, and a great style that offers a timeless glamour perfect for any Arizona bride.

It’s particularly good for a vintage wedding. If you’re planning a 1940s or 1950s style vintage wedding, an off-the-shoulder gown is a great touch of golden age Hollywood. Think about the fabulous styles of Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, and Sophia Loren and you’re certain to think of off-the-shoulder gowns. Paired with a full skirt, it’s a great vintage wedding choice.

Of course, it’s also great for an unthemed wedding. The off-the-shoulder styles give you the long neckline of a strapless dress, but add something extra special to the look. They can also give you a bit more coverage. With some styles including the equally trendy sleeves, you can keep your arms covered without feeling overwhelmed.

To find out more about off-the-shoulder wedding dress styles, and how you can wear one for your Arizona wedding day, come by our Gilbert bridal salon today! Our experts will be happy to help you find the wedding dress of your dreams!