Category: Bridal Tips

You know that gorgeous ring on your finger? We’re thinking it might need some friends in the form of a stylish manicure. No matter your style of gown, dozens of types of wedding nails will fit your fancy (and wedding dress style). From classic nails for the classic bride, unique nails for the unique bride, to girly nails for the feminine bride, we have nail (and wedding dress) inspo for you on your wedding day!

Before you start matching wedding nails to your engagement ring though, make sure to first match them up to your dream wedding dress by taking our Style Quiz and getting your perfect wedding gown at one of our Authorized Retailers.

If you want more bridal tips, tricks, and #MaggieInspiration for your big day, make sure to sign up for some exclusive text messages below!#MaggieInspiration

Classic Wedding Nails for The Classic Bride

Oh, the classic bride! When we think of this elegant, quintessential type of bride we are reminded of famous brides in history like Grace Kelly, Princess Diana, and Jackie Kennedy. With quality gowns of lace, satin, and crepe come quality nails as well.

What are classic nails though? They are typically designed with classic shapes, neutral colors, and nothing too flashy in terms of design (you don’t want to distract from that gorgeous diamond on your finger!).

PC: Genesis Imagery | PC: Chelson Tamares | PC: Tetiana Photography

If you’re looking for a classic manicure for your chic wedding dress, consider the following ideas:

• Classic Shapes: Have your manicure specialist shape your nails into almond, rounded, oval, or square shapes.: These wedding nails mimic the natural shape of your nail while adding a little bit of heightened elegance!
• Natural Colors: Consider natural shades in romantic, creamy white, rosy hues, and neutral grays, or nudes.
• Minimalist Designs: If you’re looking to add a little bit of flair to your classic nail, design your nails with a French nail, natural ombre, or a faint shimmer to accentuate that stunning ring.

With wedding nail ideas as classic and simple as these, you’re sure to need some wedding dress inspo to go along with them!

Consider these gowns to pair with any of these classy wedding nails:

PC: Max McQueen | PC: Tetiana Photography | PC: Genesis Imagery

• Fatima by Maggie Sottero: This tulle ballgown is made for princesses (and beautiful classic brides like you! Its gorgeous crepe bodice, deep V-neckline, and a detachable beaded belt would go perfectly with a classic nude manicure with a little bit of shimmer.
• Josie by Rebecca Ingram: Want to know the second-best accessory for Josie by Rebecca Ingram (after your gorgeous ring of course)? A French tip manicure! This fit-and-flare, Mikado gown with off-the-shoulder sleeves is beyond gorgeous and elegant. Just like your manicure would be!
• Kimora by Sottero and Midgley: There’s something about a satin ballgown with a little bit of beading that makes our hearts flutter a little bit. Kimora by Sottero and Midgley is the obvious choice for classic brides who don’t want to just feel elegant on their big day – but feel like royalty as well. We suggest a simple taupe or light pink manicure to pair with this luxe wedding dress.

Unique Wedding Nails For The Unique Bride

You only get married once, so make your bridal nails (and wedding dress!) as unique as can be. Match unique wedding nail ideas designed with bold colorways, funky designs, and interesting shapes with unique wedding dresses with boho laces, modern necklines, and ethereal shimmer.

PC: Sam Starn Elopements | PC: Budka Daminsuren | PC: Oswald Elsaboath

Consider these unique wedding nail designs for your distinctively “you” wedding dress:

• Unique Shapes: Unique nails can come in any shape and size, but to truly make a statement on your big day consider having them in a stiletto, edge, or flare shape. With all the attention on you and your nails, it’s best to make them stand out a bit!
• Nontraditional Colors: If you’re looking to incorporate some unique nails on your wedding day, the color palette is your oyster! Think bold black, iridescent sparkle, and really any color of the rainbow! Pro tip: consider matching your nail color to your bridal jewelry or florals to create a cohesive look.
• Edgy Nail Designs: As we said before, the world is your oyster when it comes to unique nails. Consider abstract lines, bold crystal work, eccentric designs, and even 3D embellishments to highlight your bridal look.

With bride wedding nails as unique as the ideas above, you’ll need a gown to go with them! Luckily for you, we have a large collection of individual, sophisticated, and distinctive designs to choose from.

Take a look at these gowns:

PC: Sam Starn Elopements | PC: Megan Taylor | PC: Alexis Christine Photography

• Zander by Sottero and Midgley: Zander is one of the most popular and unique wedding dresses in our Sottero & Midgley collection – and for good reason! Its black colorway, lace layers, subtle shimmer, and decadent sleeves have inspired unique brides for years (especially when it comes to their nails!). Pair this gown with a matching jet black manicure, shimmer rhinestones, or lacy designs.
• Kevyn by Sottero and Midgley: Kevyn is on the boho side of unique wedding dresses and that’s exactly why we love this gown! Let this high-neck, crepe wedding dress with its miles and miles of lace inspire your unique wedding nails. Incorporate bold colors like turquoise, orange, or purple into your manicure. For an added bit of fun and flair, include abstract designs, bold lines, or a unique French tip into your manicure.
• Carmen by Rebecca Ingram: There’s little we love more than a sexy illusion bodice with nature-inspired beading, elegant crepe, and a deep V-back – so you can see why we’re head-over-heels for Carmen by Maggie Sottero! Incorporate a little bit of nature into your wedding nails with bold florals, intricate vinery, or even crashing waves!

Girly Wedding Nails For The Girly Bride

Femininity knows no bounds when it comes to your wedding day look and that includes your nails! Swooping necklines, romantic designs, and gentle silhouettes are key aspects of your girly wedding day look – and they’re just as easy to incorporate into your girly bridal nails too!

PC: Allison Christine | PC: Ying Ge | PC: Rachel Laxton Photography

• Romantic Shapes: Brides who want a more feminine look for their wedding day will want to stick with almond, squoval, or ballerina nails to compliment the feminine shapes of the wedding dress!
• Girly Colors: Girly colors are really whatever you want them to be, but typically they’re shades of pink and purple – perfect for our brides who want to rock a blush colorway on their wedding dress! We also suggest adding a little bit of sparkle to really show off your feminine side.
• Feminine Designs: Hearts, flowers… The more designs for your bridal nails the better when it comes to feminine designs for your girly manicure. A staple in this bridal trend is also accentuating the ring finger with some additional design and flair. The more sparkles the better!

Aren’t girly nails darling?! It’s like Elle Woods said from Legally Blonde, “whoever said orange was the new pink was seriously disturbed.”

Try pairing these pretty in pink wedding nails with some of our feminine loving gowns:

PC: Rachel Laxton Photography | PC: C. York Photography | PC: Megan Rachel Photography

• Mallory Dawn by Maggie Sottero: We couldn’t ask for a more perfect wedding dress to go with a fresh girly-inspired manicure. The beautiful ivory colorway will not only highlight your skin tone, but it will also make your pink, purple, or French tip nails stand out throughout your ceremony.
• Raelynn by Rebecca Ingram: Let Raelynn by Rebecca Ingram inspire your wedding manicure! Match your nail polish color to the beautiful blush colorway of this gown, and the nail design to the floral lace embellishments that flow throughout the A-line skirt.
• Tuscany Royale by Maggie Sottero: Tuscany Royale is the definition of glamourous girly with its deep V-neckline, all-over sparkle, and Rococo lace. We suggest going all out when it comes to your nails. Pink, sparkle, designs, you name it.

Have you or a loved one had to postpone their wedding due to stay-at-home orders or COVID-19 restrictions? In today’s blog post, we’re helping you determine what to do with your wedding dress if you have postponed your wedding. We’ll give you the best tips and tricks on how to store your wedding dress from industry experts. Let’s dive in! 

Photo by Allison Francois

First and foremost, location, location, LOCATION. Pick a safe place to store your wedding dress and try your hardest not to move it. Make sure the area you choose is in a dark, cool area free from pests, mischievous fur babies and peeping fiancés. A guest bedroom’s interior closet is a perfect place to store a wedding gown. Avoid places like attics, basements or exterior wall closets because they are not always climate controlled.

You’ll definitely want to hang your wedding dress rather than box it up. By hanging your gown, you ensure that it will not be permanently creased. It also allows airflow around the gown – because, who wants a musty dress? Be sure to pay careful attention to gowns with delicate or illusion straps or sleeves to ensure that you are not having them bear the weight of the gown to prevent tears. You want to avoid having your wedding dress stretch in places where it will be hard to alter. You will also want to avoid hanging the gown close to light fixtures or ceiling fans. 

Make sure to store your gown in a cotton muslin gown bag. Cotton muslin bags are hands down the best way to store your gown and often, this is what your dress will come in when you pick it up from the store. If your gown is currently in a plastic gown bag, remove it ASAP and replace it with the proper storage bag. Muslin or a breathable fabric garment bag that is acid-free will not discolor your gown or cause creases. It keeps dust off your dress and allows air circulation. Try searching for “Breathable Fabric Bridal Gown Bag” on Amazon and you can find multiple suppliers from which to choose. Make sure when zipping up the bag, you’re extra careful to not catch any fabric in the zipper. 

We also recommend using a padded hanger. Toss out that plastic or wire hanger if you plan on storing your gown for several months. Narrow hangers can cause the shoulders of your wedding dress to warp over time or even stretch – this is especially true for gowns with sleeves and illusion necklines. Padded hangers come in both linen and cotton which are both naturally acid-free.

Repeat after us: Use ALL the hanger ribbons in your dress. This is an absolute must! Gowns are heavy! Especially ballgowns and wedding dresses made out of silk. Hanger ribbons are there to help distribute your dress’s weight evenly on the hanger. BUT what if you already had alterations and the ribbons were removed? Don’t worry – you can always add temporary hanger loops using cotton twill tape. You can even loop the hanger ribbons around the hanger multiple times to ensure that the weight of the gown is not on the actual gown’s straps, if possible. Again, please don’t rely on illusion fabrics and sleeves to hold the weight of your dress while you store it. 

It’s ok to take out your gown and examine it, but only periodically. Who are we kidding? Of course, we know you will check on your gown! We would too. But, try to resist the urge to try on the gown or remove it from the storage container. The dress should only be removed once you are ready to have your dress altered. The less contact the better. 

When you’re ready to wear your wedding dress, remember to examine your gown at least two weeks before your wedding. Make sure everything is just as it should be and there are no major flaws or stretching. Before your wedding, you will want to take your wedding gown out of the bag a week or two prior to your wear date, and hang it utilizing a padded hanger so that it has the opportunity to release wrinkles. If there are stubborn wrinkles that will not come out, please contact your alterations vendor or bridal boutiques on the best place to have your gown steamed. Pro tip: most bridal retailers will happily steam your wedding dress before your wedding free of charge. 

Finally, remember to take care of your veil and accessories! They can be stored in an acid-free box with archival tissue paper. Make sure to store them off the floor and away from pets and high traffic areas. You can keep them in the same closet with your dress or in a drawer. Just like with your wedding dress, you’ll want to make sure your veil is free of wrinkles before the big day.

Warm ocean breezes, romantic coastal landscapes, and wedding venues steeped with history and character are just some of the reasons couples choose to get married abroad, but it’s not the only reason. According to Hitched, the average cost of a wedding abroad in 2019 was £6,585. When you compare this to the average cost of a UK wedding, £31,974, you can see why destination weddings appeal to so many.

Over the years, our team at Wedding Belles of Four Oaks in Sutton Coldfield, have seen an increase in the number of brides getting married abroad and even more so right now with lot’s of restrictions still in place for UK weddings due to Covid-19. Let’s look at some of the most popular wedding destinations our brides have chosen for their big day and take a look at what styles and designs make for a perfect destination wedding dress.

Dream Destinations

Italian Lakes

The Italian Lakes have been a firm favourite with our brides, and on closer inspection, we can understand why. Whether you want panoramic backdrops of green mountains that tower behind crystal-clear lakes, charming villages with boutique hotels hidden down narrow cobbled streets, or prestigious grand hotels with elegant gardens, the Italian Lake district has it all.

Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda, and Lake Orta are just some of the lakes whose geographical landscapes and mild year-round climate make for perfect wedding destinations.

Tuscany

Tuscany is another picture-perfect region for our wander-loving brides to celebrate their wedding day. Here you’ll find enchanting medieval castles in the heart of the country, vineyards and olive groves on elaborate estates, and country-chic rustic farmhouses. Nestled amongst the Italian coastline and countryside, you’ll also find Italian villas to suit all styles, chosen themes and wedding party needs.

Many celebrities also choose Tuscany as their wedding destination, and with so many venue options, you’ll be sure to find the ideal place for your big day.

Santorini

Santorini, one of the Cyclades islands in the southern Aegean Sea, located about 120 miles southeast of Greece’s mainland, is popular with many of our Wedding Belles brides.

Famous for its whitewashed buildings that cling to rugged cliffs and breathtaking panoramic views that overlook the sea, the volcanic Greek island of Santorini has plenty of wedding venues to choose from.
Ancient stories say that marriages made in this Greek paradise are under protection from divine powers and is one of the reasons why you’ll find so many temples and churches on the island.

Other Popular Destinations

We also see more of our #wbbrides choosing to get married on the white-sandy beaches of the Caribbean, the beautiful cool island of Ibiza, and out at sea on luxury cruise ships. But no matter where abroad you choose to say, ‘I do’, our bridal stylists at Wedding Belles of Four Oaks, have some great tips for you to consider when shopping for your dream destination wedding dress.

Dream Destination Wedding Dresses

Once you’ve chosen the destination and venue of your wedding, you can start thinking about your wedding dress. It’s important to know which country and venue type you’ll be getting married at so that you can make an informed choice when it comes to fabrics and styles of bridal gowns. For example, getting married on a sandy beach in the Caribbean in July would lead you to make a different dress choice compared to if you were tying the knot in a castle in Italy in October.

At Wedding Belles of Four Oaks, we have an exceptional collection of wedding dresses to suit every bride and every type of wedding. Not only do all of our designers have breathable styles and fabrics that can be worn in warmer climates, but they capture and enhance settings through the clever use of light and movement in the materials and detailing they use.

Having found the perfect dress for so many brides who have got married abroad, it’s interesting to note that most brides don’t compromise on their dream dress just because they are getting married in a different country.

Chic Chiffon

Lightweight fabrics are a must for hotter weather conditions and airy dresses with lots of movement are perfect for catching light ocean breezes and keeping you cool.

This breezy Boho A-line chiffon wedding dress by Rebecca Ingram will leave you feeling like you are floating down the aisle. This easy-to-wear flowy gown with plunging illusion neckline and v-back will keep you cool with its chic chiffon skirt and delicately beaded sheer lace bodice.

Tip – If you’re getting married on the beach, remember that the sand can be scorching hot, so be sure to test the temperature before heading down the aisle barefooted.

Relaxed Form Fitting Shapes

Crepe is a popular lightweight fabric that is perfect for brides who want a body-hugging wedding dress without it being clingy. Crepe not only fits like a dream, but it is super comfortable without compromising on style or your silhouette shape.

We love this Maggie Sottero crepe fit-and-flare wedding dress with plunging illusion sweetheart neckline and beaded spaghetti straps. It is designed to look stunning in the sunshine with its beaded bodice, and its Jenday stretch jersey lining will give our brides extra comfort.

Tip – As the hot sun disappears, outdoor evening temperatures may be much cooler, so consider investing in an elegant shawl or wrap.

Timeless Tulle

Floaty Tulle designs are ideal for the globe-trotting bride. Without adding any extra weight, tulle skirts allow brides to wear a wedding dress that still gives them dramatic volume. With lots of movement, this fabric oozes romance and is so much fun to wear.

This breathtaking wedding dress from Essence of Australia is all about sheer radiance. This soft sheer tulle wedding gown with side split will leave you feeling like you’re walking on air as you walk down the aisle. With a textured floral lace bodice and a clean neckline with beaded edging, this dress is spectacular.

Tip – For hot weather destination weddings, reconsider A-line and ballgown styles that will make you hot. Instead, create volume with subtle flowing tulle skirts.

Lightweight Lace

We love lace for destination weddings as it travels well. Luxurious lace wedding dresses make for timeless pieces that tell a story. Whether you choose to wear a lace gown for a castle, vineyard, lake or beach venue, you can relax knowing this breathable fabric balances wearability with elegance to create classic dream dresses.

One of our favourite lace wedding dresses is this design by Essence of Australia. This layered lace wedding dress with plunging neckline is made with layers of cotton-style lace and French lace. It all comes together beautifully to create a soft, unique look that continues through the bodice and onto the skirt. This eye-catching fairy tale dress is perfect for all destination wedding venues.

Tip – If you’re saying ‘I do’ outside, you may want to swap the bridal veil for stunning hair accessories. Remember, it can get windy on the beach or by a lake, and you don’t want to spend your ceremony being distracted by your veil.

Wedding Belles Destination Brides

Not only are our bridal stylists here to help you choose the perfect wedding dress, but the team at our Wedding Belles boutique are on hand to help you get your dress travel ready.

For our destination brides, we offer a steam press and pack service which brides can collect the day before they fly out, so you can rest easy knowing your dress is packed safely. We also sell Wedding Belles travel boxes and I’m a WB luggage strap for extra security and reassurance.

With so many stunning bridal gowns to choose from, we are confident you will find the perfect dress for your big day at our bridal store. So whether you are dreaming of a wedding on a white-sandy beach, in the grounds of a medieval castle, or perhaps at a grand Italian villa, Wedding Belles of Four Oaks is here to cater to your wedding dress needs and help you make your wedding dreams come true.

The bohemian themed wedding is more than just a passing trend and will be around for many years to come. The reason for this is because the boho wedding makes a lifestyle statement. Building your wedding around mother nature and combining it with your own 

creative and artistic style allows for individual expression while acknowledging time and place through season and location.

Once upon a time, weddings were typically a more formal affair, think top hat and tails. But when mother nature becomes the backdrop of a wedding ceremony or reception, permission to relax those formalities is granted. 

By celebrating the natural beauty of the outdoors and entwining it with free-spirited chic expressions, outdoor areas can be transformed into wondrous enchanting spaces that ooze romance and magic while still being deluxe.

Whether your boho wedding is to be set in a small garden, a grand outdoor venue, the beach or perhaps your focus is to bring the outdoors inside, boho themed weddings allow plenty of room for a couple to showcase their artistic flair and individuality.

At first glance, the boho themed wedding looks effortless, yet on closer inspection, you’ll see the combined ethereal vibe and rustic, organic feel comes together because the couple paid attention to details.

What style elements do you need to create a stunning boho wedding?

Here at Wedding Belles of Four Oaks, we got together with some local wedding suppliers to showcase a midsummer boho style that we can’t get enough of. 

All of the style choices you make for your big day come down to what kind of atmosphere you are trying to create. This may seem overwhelming when you first think about it, but once you know what you want there are so many clever and simple ideas to help create the atmosphere you want.

When styling a wedding, remember to consider how lighting, textiles, furniture and space might be used to create the atmosphere you want.  Do you want cosy, intimate areas or large open spaces that showcase natural outdoor backdrops? Perhaps you want a mixture of the two? 

Remember your wedding photographer plays a significant role in capturing the atmosphere of your day, so be sure to shop around and look at what photography styles you like.

For our photoshoot, wedding photographer Leesha Williams’ love of all things artsy and creative are reflected through the artistic choices she makes when photographing our couple. Not only does she capture great shots of the bride and groom, but she also has a talent for capturing the ambience of the day, and boho weddings are all about that bohemian vibe.

Venue and Styling

Mother nature plays a big part in bohemian styled weddings. The venue you choose may have beautiful gardens or woodlands or perhaps your wedding will take place in your garden at home, or at the beach. If this is the case, you can start to think about how these outdoor spaces can work for you. But if your chosen venue has limited access to outdoor areas don’t worry, it’s still possible to bring the outdoors inside with floral decorations, plus there are plenty of natural green spaces open to the public where you can have photos taken. We set up this stunning photoshoot at a local park. 

For our photoshoot, The English Wedding Company worked their magic by infusing rustic charm with chic elements to create a simple but dramatic setting. Wooden pallets created tables that were draped with luxurious navy tablecloths and were then decorated with gold candelabras, tealights and vintage décor that highlighted the specific midsummer countryside theme we were trying to create. 

Items like the personalised wooden wedding sign, made by The Old Potting Shed Ltd, added a personal touch and is a beautiful keepsake that can be kept for years to come.

But this midsummer boho style is a theme that can easily be adapted when the setting is changed. A summer boho themed wedding at the beach would mean simply swapping out the countryside décor for beach pieces such as starfish, shells, nautical ropes and candles that sit in large clear vases filled with sand. Don’t forget you can add even more mood lighting with the use of fairy lights and lanterns to get the full boho vibe.

The boho theme also works well when it comes to mixing and matching DIY elements with professionally paid elements. This allows you to keep to your budget while at the same time giving you the chance to add personal handmade touches, like designing and making your stationery or favours. 

Floral and Cake

Bringing the outdoors indoors on your big day may mean grand hanging floral arrangements and draping greenery, but the cost of this can quickly add up. Instead, be selective with where you want to add some greenery. For example, if you are hiring a pop-up photo booth, you may decide to have a flower wall for your backdrop. 

In our photoshoot, Zanda B Floral Design Studio created a stunning wild boho bouquet bursting with texture, colourful blooms and seasonal flowers. Boho floral arrangements are all about complimenting the wild natural flora in your setting. Pick flowers that are in season and be sure to experiment with wearing matching flowers in your hair or a flower crown for the full boho look. 

You can also use floral arrangements to decorate your cake, or you could take inspiration from Storey Book Cakes and incorporate wild floral colours to add a pop of colour to your big day.

Wedding Attire

Our gorgeous models, Shannon McNally and Harley Gregory, beautifully showcase bohemian attire in our photoshoot. 

While bohemian grooms often have a casual and relaxed look, on closer inspection you’ll notice that suits are still the go-to. The difference is that grooms can now have as much fun as the bride when it comes to choosing what suit pieces they want to wear and which colours, patterns and accessories they like. Like all things boho, the groom is given plenty of room for self-expression. 

Here at Wedding Belles of Four Oaks, we are all about the dress, and if you have already decided on a Bohemian themed wedding, we have an extensive collection of boho style dresses just for you.

Typically, three elements make the perfect boho wedding dress; lace, embroidery and flow. The two wedding dresses worn by our bride at our photoshoot both have these elements.

Maggie Sottero dresses have been one of the most sought after wedding dress manufacturers in the world for over twenty years. In this Antonia design, our bride channels ethereal grace in this lace v-back and v-neckline dress. The lace illusion long sleeves with bell cuffs add to the subtle drama of this piece while the dress is lined with York jersey for a luxe feel. To complement this boho design, our model is wearing a handmade macramé headpiece from House of Macramé Co.

Our bride also turns heads in the Essence of Australia Boho wedding dress. Bold lace adorns the bodice of this gown which enhances the plunging v-neckline and linear-detailed trim. The soft A-line skirt with linear lace detailing brings an element of romance while showcasing the attention to detailing that Essence of Australia prides itself on.

At Wedding Belles of Four Oaks in Sutton Coldfield, our bridal stylists are waiting to help you find the perfect Boho wedding dress. If you are not 100% sure what you are looking for, we will provide you with the guidance you need while making it an experience you will treasure forever.

What are you waiting for?

The beauty of the boho themed wedding is that it’s versatile and can be adapted for your specific location and style. So have fun and experiment with ideas. Pinterest is full of inspiration and is a fantastic tool for creating mood boards for your wedding day. It allows you to play around with themes, colour schemes and ideas so you can figure out what you love before making any final decisions.

Congratulations! You’re getting married and now you’re planning to find your dream wedding dress. Whether you’ve been looking forward to this moment for years or haven’t given much thought to what kind of dress you’d like, Wedding Belles of Four Oaks in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, has a dedicated team of bridal stylists ready to help. We strongly believe shopping for your wedding dress is an occasion in itself, while our focus is always on you (the bride). That’s why we’ve put together ten top tips to help you have the ultimate wedding dress shopping experience.

1. START WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING TWELVE MONTHS BEFORE YOUR BIG DAY

Your big day may be twelve months away, but the ideal time to start wedding dress shopping is now. At the latest, you ideally need to have chosen your dress nine months before your set wedding date. With dresses taking six to eight months to order from new collections, you want to make sure you allow plenty of time to get the design of your choice. 

But there’s no need to panic if you’re getting married in the next four to six months. Most designers offer ready-to-wear and in-stock programs for brides short on time, and designers can provide rush programs which deliver the dress quicker than standard delivery times for a fee. Dresses can also be purchased straight from the collection if brides have short wear dates.

2. DO YOUR RESEARCH

While it’s a great idea to research what style of wedding dress you’d like to wear on your special day, it’s even more important to research the wedding boutique you’re going to visit.

Be sure to check out the boutique’s social media and website to see if it resonates with you and your style, and don’t forget to read their reviews on Google and Facebook. Do they update regularly? Do they have excellent customer service?

Once you find a boutique that is a good match for you, bridal stylists will be able to provide you with the style advice you need to help you find the dress of your dreams. At Wedding Belles of Four Oaks, we pride ourselves on giving you an exceptional and unforgettable #wbbride experience from your first appointment all the way to the aisle.  

3. MAKE AN APPOINTMENT 

As tempting as it is to just turn up at a bridal boutique with your friends and loved ones, avoid disappointment by booking an appointment. 

An appointment allows you to have the one to one service you deserve and need to find your dream dress. Plus, it gives you time and space to make decisions without being rushed or interrupted. Most wedding dress shops are busy midweek and weekends are their busiest times, so be sure to book ahead.

Another tip is to try not to book too many appointments in one go. We recommend booking one appointment to start with, so visit your favourite wedding dress shop first. Then if you don’t find the perfect dress there, book more appointments with different wedding boutiques as and when you need to.

4. CHOOSE YOUR BRIDE TRIBE CAREFULLY

Wedding dress shopping should be about celebrating finding the perfect dress with your friends and your loved ones, but too many opinions can be confusing. Not everyone has the same taste in dresses, and while some people are tactful when it comes to voicing their opinions, others can be too vocal, and before you know it, you can end up not being able to hear your own thoughts. 

We suggest picking two to three people who mean the most to you and who’s opinion you value, for example, your mom, sister, or stepmom, and bringing them with you to your appointment. This way, you can take on board the views of those who matter most without feeling overwhelmed.

5. KNOW YOUR PRICE POINT

Even though your wedding dress is likely to be the most expensive dress you’ll ever buy, everyone has a budget, so it’s best to be open with your bridal stylist. They can then find the right dress for you that not only looks stunning but also fits in with what you want to spend. There’s nothing worse than finding the perfect dress only to have to find another one you love just as much that costs less.

Before you arrive at your appointment, try to have a clear idea of how much you want to spend, and if possible, know how flexible you can be. Your dream dress may cost a little more so it would help to know in advance if you can stretch your budget a little further.

Also, don’t forget to factor in alterations and accessories, like shoes, veil, jewellery etc as the cost of these can add up quickly.

6. PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT 

Another great tip includes taking shoes of a similar heel height with you to your appointment and wearing nude or seam-free underwear. Doing this will give you a better idea of what dresses will look like on you, and it will mean you can see your dress without having your underwear showing through the gown. 

Taking a strapless bra when you go wedding dress shopping is another great idea although most dresses don’t need you to wear one on your big day as they have far more structure in them than your regular high street dresses.

7. FORGET ABOUT SIZING

The wedding dress samples you try on in wedding boutiques are definitely NOT one size fits all, so relax and trust your stylist. It’s their job to make the dress of your choice fit as well as possible and to show you how it would look when it’s the correct size. 

We all know clothing sizes vary from designer to designer and wedding dresses are no different. When it comes to ordering the dress of your dreams don’t worry about the label size, wedding dress sizes are vastly different from high street sizes, and most brides tend to wear one to two dress sizes bigger than their regular clothes. It’s also worth noting that alterations are almost always needed on wedding dresses, so ask your stylist if they don’t mention it.

8. BE OPEN-MINDED

This is all we ask from our brides-to-be. So often a bride’s perfect wedding dress is different from what they imagined they would end up buying, so it’s important to trust your stylist. 

Located in the West Midlands, Wedding Belles of Four Oaks has an extensive range of wedding dresses to choose from, including, long-sleeved, boho, beach, princess, mermaid, ballgown, simple wedding dresses, and more. We also have a stunning collection of bridesmaid dresses and accessories. But we understand that with so many options and prices, the shopping experience can begin to feel a little overwhelming for some.

This is where wedding boutique stylists are worth their weight in gold. Bridal stylists are the experts when it comes to matching brides with their perfect dress, so take a leap of faith and trust your stylist and boutique to find you the right one. 

Remember, wedding dress shopping isn’t like normal dress shopping, so by keeping an open mind and letting your stylist work their magic, you may find you end up with a dress that exceeds your expectations.

9. DON’T BE AFRAID IF IT’S THE FIRST DRESS YOU LOVE

Bridal stylists are amazing and will most likely find your dress straight away, or within the first few dresses you try. When this happens brides sometimes think they’ve found their wedding dress too quick, but what stylists notice is that they often go back to their wedding boutique later in the day and say yes to the dress!

The best way to know if you’ve found the one, and we’re talking about the perfect dress here, is to trust your gut and your heart. The best decisions are made when your head and your heart meet, and when the two come together, you’ll know, so make sure you seize the moment and celebrate. 

10. ENJOY, HAVE FUN AND CELEBRATE 

Remember, shopping for your wedding dress is exciting and should be fun. This is one of those moments in life you will always remember, and it’s a special time to share with family and friends, so take time to enjoy it.

At Wedding Belles of Four Oaks, you can trust our professional stylists to guide you from fitting to finish. By booking an appointment with us in our ultra-chic Sutton Coldfield boutique and ordering a dress, you can relax knowing you’re in safe hands and can celebrate with your bridal tribe on becoming a #weddingbellesbride.

One question we get asked all the time is “can you add sleeves to any wedding dress?”

The answer is yes! Most experienced seamstresses can add sleeves to your wedding dress, regardless of the material or style. However, we recommend working with your bridal consultant first to see if you can find a long-sleeved wedding dress prior to resorting to adding custom sleeves to your wedding dress. No matter the reason you’re wanting a long sleeve wedding dress, you’re in luck because long sleeve wedding dresses are having a moment.

Some wedding dresses may have the option to be ordered with or without sleeves like Rebecca Ingram’s Tina and Tina Dawn, pictured below. Other gowns may have the option of detachable sleeves like D2642 and D2988 by Essense of Australia. Check with your bridal consultant before you begin shopping to make sure they know you want all of their options for a wedding dress with sleeves. See all of our wedding dresses with sleeves on our website.

Gowns are fully customisable and sleeves can be added to any of our Martina Liana wedding dresses. Work with your bridal salon and they will work with the Martina Liana team to create the long sleeve wedding dress of your dreams. Many labels will also allow you to order additional fabric to take to your seamstress so that the laces and fabrics match throughout your wedding dress.

Have your heart set on an extraordinary bridal look with unique sleeves?

Look no further than Sottero and Midgley, our couture line of high-fashion gowns with one-of-a-kind details. These collections feature sexy silhouettes, plunging necklines and scoop backs, and luxurious embellishments in lace, crystal, and illusion. Sleeved gowns by Sottero and Midgley are designed for high impact, featuring glamorous crystal beading, alluring bodice details, and eye-catching silhouettes.

If you’re in the market for a simple sleeved wedding dress at an affordable price point, head to our Rebecca Ingram line. These collections offer elegant, budget-friendly versions of the latest bridal trends, or as we like to call it, “the ideal convergence of style and affordability.” Classic brides love Rebecca Ingram for its flirty style elements and lovely silhouettes—everything you need for a timeless bridal look that doesn’t break the bank.

Are you still looking for the long sleeve dress of your dreams?

As promised, we’ve compiled a few of our favourite sleeved wedding dresses from our collection to inspire your search, including a long sleeve wedding dress, sleeved lace wedding dress, simple sleeved gown, long sleeve with off the shoulder neckline, a vintage gown with sleeves, a unique sleeved style, and a sleeved style for the boho bride. Keep scrolling for major wedspo!

As every bride knows, wedding dress shopping can be a bit overwhelming. The dress, and how you feel in it, is one of the most memorable parts of planning a wedding. Your gown will set the tone for the wedding theme and all of the details that follow, whether you’re planning a luxe ballroom gala or a backyard barbecue. It’s often referred to as the most important outfit of your life, but you’ll only be able to wear it once. Oh, and to top it all off, it’s definitely going to be the most expensive garment you’ll ever wear. So, no pressure, right?

How to Shop for a Wedding Dress?

Whether you’re shopping frugally for a sexy fit-and-flare or going all out on an extravagant ballgown, our top tips will help every bride sort through the thousands of options, designers and styles so you can confidently say “YES” to your dream wedding dress!

Find Your Inspiration

Before you start scheduling bridal shop appointments or gathering your entourage, take some time to yourself to research current wedding dress styles and trends and take note of what you like. Check out Pinterest boards, bridal boutiques and designers’ instagrams and even your favourite celebrity wedding gowns. Seeing a trend within the ones you love? Whether it’s a halter neckline or tiered tulle that makes you swoon, keep these similarities in mind as you prepare for your first appointment.

Confirm Your Budget

We get it. Money isn’t the most comfortable topic to talk about, but you’re going to have to figure out who is paying for the dress and how it will affect your overall wedding budget. If your parents are paying for the dress, hash out that conversation beforehand so you don’t end up trying on gowns out of your price range. Brides report that couples usually spend about 5% of the budget on their attire, so if you’re fronting the cost of the gown, pick a price range together.

Timing is Everything

Plan your appointments with enough time to order and complete alterations. It takes roughly six to eight months to create your wedding dress, so we recommend starting dress shopping at least 12 months prior to your wedding date. Place your order at least 10/12 months prior to ensure the dress comes in time to be altered. 

Making Your Appointment

Ready to make your appointment at local bridal shops? First, take a look at the boutiques in your area (and don’t forget to read the reviews!) If you’re looking for a specific designer, ensure they carry the line. Call ahead, or schedule online, based on your availability. We recommend considering a weekday appointment. “It’s much more of a sentimental, private appointment.”  Remember to bring a strapless bra (don’t forget nude underwear!) and a pair of heels to practice walking.

Who to Bring

When choosing the entourage for your dress shopping experience, think of the people whose opinions matter the most. Finding your Wedding dress is such a special time and is one that needs to be shared with your nearest and dearest. Make sure they are available when scheduling your appointment, as you wouldn’t want to find your dress without them. 

Keep An Open Mind

It’s so important to keep an open mind while dress shopping! Your consultant will be very mindful of your likes and dislikes, but they’ll also throw in some wild cards. Sometimes, dresses take you by surprise and those end up being the best option. You might not have considered how flattering a certain shape would look on your build, so try it on and give it a go! Consultants often say that some gowns look completely different on a bride than they do on the hanger, so keep an open mind! 

Sizing

Wedding dress sizing is much different than regular clothing. Sizing differs among designers, so trust in your consultant’s measurements. Ordering a different size to normal might sound crazy, but your bridal shop and alterations specialist will make sure your wedding gown fits perfectly on your big day!

Say Yes!

Okay – you’re ready to say yes! When you’ve truly found “the one,” you will know. Don’t second guess your own opinion or let anyone else tell you to keep looking. 

You can confide closely with your consultant as their top priority is to help you find the dream dress. Some bridal shops require payment upfront while others take deposits, so keep that in mind when you’re ready to purchase your dress.

Finishing Touches

After you’ve secured your gown, it’s time to start thinking about the finishing touches that will complete your bridal vision. Are you going to wear a veil or opt for a flower crown? Will you accessorise with pearl earrings or a simple silver bracelet? Select your heels, hair and makeup at least 2-3 months before the big day so you’re completely set for the week of the wedding.

Plan Fittings

Plan your first fitting about three months prior to your wedding with your preferred alterations specialist. Your second fitting will fall about a fortnight before your wedding date. At your fittings, you’ll learn how to properly bustle your gown to make an easy transformation post-ceremony. Practice walking in your heels and move around to make sure the dress is completely comfortable. After this step, your wedding dress will be ready to make its aisle debut!

The Wedding Dress Experience – equal parts of exciting and daunting. For most of us, this is the first and only time we’ll be looking for a wedding dress, and it’s not the same as picking out an outfit for work or a party. Finding the perfect wedding dress can be a long process, but this can be made easier and become stress-free, by visiting the right boutiques first time round. So to help you avoid tears and tantrums, and to put the fun and special memories into buying your wedding dress, we have put together this quick guide to bridal shopping. It’s a few simple pointers, gained from our experience and that of many brides. Hope it helps.

• Start looking sooner rather than later. It’s never too early to start trying on dresses and saying Yes to The Dress. It can take up to 6 months for a dress to be made to order from a bridal boutique.
• Invest some time into picking which boutiques you would like to visit. Getting a feel from their websites or talking to shops on the phone will ensure you are spending your time in the right places.
• Some bridal shops are by appointment – so book in advance. Bear in mind that Saturdays are usually the busiest day of the week.
• Organise to go to the appointment with one or two close family members or friends, whose opinions you know you can trust. Don’t bring an entourage. You need to be able to hear yourself think, and follow your own instincts about which dress makes you look and feel great. Remember it’s your dress and your wedding day.
• Make sure to wear appropriate underwear as you will be helped in and out of dresses. Bring a good strapless bra may also help.
• Bring along items you have already decided to wear – like a piece of jewellery to make sure it ties in with the dress.
• Bring along heels in a similar height to those you will wear on the day. You’ll be surprised how many girls find their dress on their first appointment.
• Don’t get too caught up with designer labels. Most designers have a range that covers all styles and silhouettes. So choose the dress and not the label.
• Set yourself a price range that you would like to stick to, and make sure your consultant knows this, to be able to help you stay on target.
• Make sure you take alterations into consideration, they are never included in the dress price and will vary depending on what needs doing. A great seamstress is worth her weight in Gold, so please do not scrimp on finding a back street one.

• When you are ready to “Say Yes to The Dress”, it’s simple… stop looking!
• Enjoy yourself – shopping for your wedding dress is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to treasure forever.