Shopping with your Entourage

As little girls, we all dreamed about growing up, dressing up, and wearing “the most beautiful wedding dress anyone has ever seen.”  Now here you are, ready to find that beautiful gown and everyone wants to come!  Where you draw the line is in your control- you’re the bride!

Bringing a large entourage with you can get confusing, even if they’re your family and closest friends.  I've seen many brides break-down in tears under the stress of trying to please everyone.  Making this a special day for you and your mom, or you and your two closest friends really is okay!  If there are people who want to tag along, you can tell them that since so many people wanted to help you shop, you had to draw the line and decided to make it a special occasion for just you and (insert here: mom, maid of honor, grandma…); anyone who really cares about you should understand the importance of this day and won’t want to ruin it for you.  If that doesn't work and you have someone who feels it’s her “right” go to, turn it around and make it about her.  Tell her you’ll absolutely need her help and want her input in other aspects of planning your wedding, for example, picking out bridesmaid dresses, shopping for the cake, or picking out and trying different hair styles. 

If you are going to have a large entourage, remember that comes with lots of varying opinions.  If you’re not sure you want that, but can’t say “no” to anyone, you might try pre-shopping.  Before the big shopping day, stop at the stores you want to visit and try gowns on, either alone or with one or two people.  Then, when you have everyone with you, just try on your favorites and let them help you choose “the One.”  It would also be wise to check with the bridal shop(s) you’ll be bringing everyone too; depending on the size of your group there may be a best day or time to come in.  If you make an appointment, be sure to mention the number you’re bringing with you so you can be sure to have adequate space for everyone.

Some things to think about when deciding who to invite and who to leave at home:

Who makes you feel the best about yourself?  You’ll want her there!

Who makes everything all about her?  Think twice before inviting her.

Who “gets” your style the best?  You’ll want her there!

Who gets their feelings hurt if you don’t take their opinion to heart?  Think twice before inviting her.

Have fun SHOPPING!!!