10-12 months before

• Set a budget. Having a set budget ahead of time will help your bridal store consultant pull the right dresses for you to try on. (Set aside part of that budget for accessories, such as shoes, headpiece/veil and jewelry.)

• Research styles. Browse through photos of gowns to get a sense for the styles and details that might best match your personal taste.

• Select your shopping mate(s). Invite one or two trusted partners – your mom, a close friend, etc. – for a second opinion.

• Start shopping. Schedule your appointments early since salons can get booked up fast. Bring photos of dresses you like so the salesperson will be better equipped to help you, but keep an open mind. Lots of dresses have zero hanger appeal, but look great once you put them on. Ask to try on a veil with the dress and consider accessories to complete the look, such as jewelry or sashes.

9 months before

• Buy your gown. Many bridal gowns have to be special ordered, and it can take up to six months to order certain dresses. Plus, you’ll need time for alterations. Make sure all the details of your gown order (and any promises the shop makes about delivery, sizing, etc.) are in writing before you place your deposit.

5-6 months before

• Select your bridal shoes. Whether or not you want a heel may affect the whole look of your dress. Know that you’ll be on your feet for most of the day, so make sure your feet can handle it. Consider breaking in your shoes by wearing them an entire day at home.

• Decide on any accessories and undergarments. Choose your accessories, including the jewelry, veil, hair accessories or other adornments. Wear your chosen undergarments and bring your accessories to your first fitting so you can see your entire look from head to toe.

3 months before

• Schedule your first fitting. You’ll most likely have three fittings to ensure the wedding dress fits you perfectly. Planning the first fitting around three months prior to your wedding day will ensure plenty of time for alterations. Keep in mind that your dress should just barely sweep the floor – any longer and you could risk tripping on the fabric.

6 weeks before

• Schedule your second fitting. This gives you time in case the gown doesn’t fit exactly as you envisioned after the first alterations have been made.

• Planning to add a keepsake? If you want to include a “something old, new, borrowed or blue” in your ensemble, plan to have these items before your final fitting.

3 weeks before

• Schedule your final fitting. Leave your seamstress enough time to make any small alterations.

1-2 weeks before

• Take your wedding dress home. Inspect the dress to make sure everything looks right. Then store it in a breathable, opaque bag and hang it in a secure spot. Keep your veil wrapped separately to avoid any snags.

Day before

• Time for those final touches. Gather your dress, bridal accessories and an emergency kit (safety pins, tape, etc.). Consider investing in a portable handheld steamer to help get your gown wrinkle-free on the morning of your wedding day.

Wedding day

• Get dressed! The big day is here! Steam your gown and get dressed (allow around 30 minutes). Now, go rock that dress!