I went to the experts! My friends at Brickhouse Bridal, a premier wedding dress boutique located in The Woodlands, Texas, gave me some of their BEST wedding dress shopping tips, just for my brides. At Mollie Jane Photography, I want to be helpful with every part of your wedding day preparation. Many times, brides start to choose their wedding dress before they find their wedding photographer. So, I hope these tips are extra helpful during this specific time in your planning.
FROM THE WEDDING DRESS EXPERTS:
Shopping for your wedding gown is one of the most exciting and emotional milestones in your wedding journey. At Brickhouse Bridal, the goal is to make every bride feel confident, supported, and celebrated through the entire experience. Whether you arrive with a Pinterest board in hand or no clue where to start, these expert tips will help you get the most out of your bridal appointment.
When to Start Shopping for Your Gown
Timing is everything. It is recommended starting your dress search 9 to 12 months before your wedding. This gives you enough time for ordering, delivery, and alterations. If you’re planning custom design changes, that timeline becomes even more important. Shopping too early can be just as tricky as shopping too late — new styles arrive regularly, and you don’t want to miss something perfect for you.
Come with an Open Mind
While it’s great to know your wedding date and venue before your first appointment, what matters most is your mindset. Don’t worry if you haven’t figured everything out — just come ready to enjoy the process. Bring a few inspiration photos if you have them, or simply describe how you want to feel on your wedding day. The bridal shop team is there to guide you and help you discover your dream dress.
What to Bring (And What You Can Leave at Home)
You don’t need to show up with a suitcase of accessories. Nude underwear is ideal, and if you plan to wear shapewear or a specific bra on your wedding day, bring those along. Already picked your shoes or know the height of your heels? Feel free to bring those too. But don’t stress — the stylists at will make sure you feel confident and comfortable, no matter what you bring.
The Value of Doing Some Style Research
You don’t need to know exactly what you want, but a little research can go a long way. Browse Pinterest, Instagram, and even TikTok for looks that resonate with you. Even if you’re unsure why you like a particular gown, the expert consultants will help identify the details that make your heart skip a beat. It’s all about capturing your personal vibe and translating that into the perfect gown.
How to Share Your Vision (Even If You’re Unsure)
Even if your inspiration photos seem all over the place, don’t worry. The seasoned consultants at Brickhouse Bridal (some with over a decade of experience!) are skilled at recognizing the common threads in your preferences. Just tell them how you want to feel — romantic, effortless, bold, classic — and let them take it from there.
Do You Need a Set Budget?
You do not necessarily need a set budget. Having a general price range in mind is helpful, but the bridal shops that you choose should focus on guiding you through a stress-free experience without pressure. The stylists are there to help you fall in love with something that fits your style and your comfort level — both emotionally and financially.
Choosing Your Guests to bring with you
Who you bring to your appointment can greatly influence your experience. It is recommended inviting up to four guests — the sweet spot for an uplifting, focused, and supportive atmosphere. Choose people who will hype you up, celebrate your moment, and help you feel your absolute best.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE APPOINTMENT
Let Go of Common Dress Shopping Myths
Not every bride cries when she finds “the one,” and that’s perfectly normal. You might feel excited, calm, confident, or just really sure — all reactions are valid. Also, the gown you’ve saved online a hundred times might not be the one in person. Keep your heart open to surprises. Often, the most magical “yes” moment happens when you least expect it.
Feeling Nervous or Self-Conscious? You’re Not Alone
Trying on wedding dresses can feel vulnerable, and it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous. The bridal salon stylists should make you feel seen, celebrated, and confident.
More Than Just a Dress
At the end of the day, gown shopping is about more than finding a beautiful dress — it’s about stepping into the moment where you see yourself as a bride. It’s about that inner glow, that confidence, and the joy of saying yes not just to a dress, but to the version of yourself that’s ready to walk down the aisle.
REAL MOLLIE JANE BRIDES’ EXPERIENCE
Alex, who was married at the end of March 2025 said, “Brickhouse Bridal helped me find my dress with a teach of friendly consultants who truly listened and tailored the experience as we went along. There was a wide variety of styles and clear, easy communication, the whole process felt smooth and stress-free. I also knew three other brides who found their dresses here, and the added trust of knowing Ashley, a family friend, I knew it was where I wanted to go. They really make you feel completely confident and comfortable as you’re picking out your dream dress.”
And Sara, who was married in September 2024 and she said, “I loved it from the very beginning because of how much of a princess they made me feel!! They had a beautiful store that had cookies and drinks waiting for all the brides coming in. They they take you back to your own little area for you and your guests. I was a little overwhelmed with all the choices but they helped me narrow it down and even chose some options for me after sharing what I was looking for!! The best!”
CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING VENDORS FOR YOUR JACKSONVILLE WEDDING
It is so important to choose wedding vendors starting with your Jacksonville wedding dress store that communicate with you clearly and easily, are experts in their field and treat you and your day like you deserve, like a princess.
If you are still looking for a wedding photographer, that is what we do at Mollie Jane Photography! Communicate, educate, and make you feel like a princess while we create your forever memories of this most important time in your life. I would love to talk to you more about your wedding day! Click HERE to go to my website for more information and CONTACT ME! I can’t wait to hear from you!
Are you Looking for a Jacksonville Bridal Shop?
Are you planning a wedding in Jacksonville Florida and looking for a wedding dresses in Jacksonville? This is a list of wonderfully reviewed Jacksonville bridal shops:
Mollie Jane Photography photographs wedding in Houston and Jacksonville. I would love to be part of your Jacksonville or St. Augustine wedding!
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