If you're well into wedding planning or just starting, it's probably time to start thinking about dress shopping! It's such an exciting and FUN part of the planning process but also totally normal for you to have a few nerves about buying your gown. After all, you're hopefully only going to wear a wedding dress once and these photos will be with you for generations to come so you want to make sure it's perfect. But the beautiful thing about perfection is that, like beauty, it is in the eye of the beholder. The perfect dress for your best friend won't be the perfect dress for you.

Check out some of our tips for wedding gown shopping below and then make an appointment with one of our favorite vendors in Hampton Roads. They carry exquisite gowns for EVERY bride in every price point so check out the bio of each and then decide which one fits your vision best.

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For some brides, wedding gown shopping is scary because they might not feel 100% confident in their skin. This is so very normal but we urge you to look beyond the size on the tag. Most salons carry sample sizes of gowns (it's just impossible for them to carry every size) and then you order the exact size you need. IGNORE the tags. Ignore the numbers. Find a gown that you feel fabulous in because you are gorgeous just as you are.

Your bridal consultant can help you pick silhouettes that are flattering for your figure, but ultimately it's all about what you feel best in. And then there's the whole world of magical alterations! What's more important than the size of the gown is the fit and a skilled tailor can make sure it fits you perfectly. From adding straps if you need extra support to hemming to adding embellishments, take advantage of the skills of these pros. The good news is that most salons either have an in-house tailor or they have someone they recommend.

The ultimate piece of advice is to make sure you leave plenty of time for the shop to order your gown in your size and for alterations. This is why wedding gown shopping should be towards the top of your to-do list.

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Once you've picked your wedding day venue, everything else starts to fall into place, including your wedding gown. If you're having a beach wedding or a wedding in the middle of a beautiful forest, you might not want a ballgown with a lot of extra fabric, which can not only be hard to carry over sand or dirt, but also will be hotter. A lighter fabric and more flowing fit might be better for that wedding.

Likewise, if you're having a black tie, bling inspired, chic wedding, you might opt for a sleeker gown with a sexier silhouette.

Also, don't forget the season! A fall or winter wedding calls for a much different gown than the middle of summer. Remember that most brides wear their gowns for the entire event, so you want to be comfortable.

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When you're making your appointment you might be tempted to bring every one of your very best friends and your mom and future mother in law and your sister and your cousin and your aunt and your grandma...you get the point. But the more people who come with you, the more opinions there will be. Limit your guest list to just the few people whose opinions mean the most to you.

Even then, keep your feelings at the forefront of your shopping experience. This is a BIG purchase and it's easy to be persuaded by the people you love most. Ultimately if you want stripes, wear stripes! If you want a mermaid fit and your mom wants a ballgown, flaunt that mermaid silhouette! If you can't imagine yourself in white, then dare to be different girl. You don't have to hurt anyone's feelings to stick to your guns, but also depend on your consultant to help you!

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The next Showbride event is coming up! Here's all the info you need for this fun event where you can meet amazing vendors:

Venue: Founders Inn & Spa

Website: www.showbride.com