Finding your dream dress is one of the most magical parts of wedding planning. But here’s the thing, wedding gowns aren’t like shopping for a pair of jeans. They’re made to order, tailored to you, and it takes time to get everything just right.
At Laurel&Lace, we want brides to feel calm, confident, and excited, not rushed or stressed. That’s why we’ve created this friendly timeline to guide you from your very first appointment all the way to your wedding day.
12–18 Months Before Your Wedding: Start Dreaming & Shopping
This is the perfect window to begin your dress journey.
- Schedule your first bridal appointment.
- Try on different silhouettes to see what makes you feel amazing.
- Bring a small, supportive group to share in the fun.
Starting early means you have time to explore options without pressure, and when you fall in love with a gown, you’ll know you can get it on time.
9–12 Months Before: Say “Yes” & Place Your Order
Once you’ve found the one, it’s time to order. Most designers need several months to create your gown and ship it to the boutique. Placing your order around the 9–12 month mark keeps everything stress-free.
- Be upfront about your budget.
- Ask about rush options if your wedding is sooner.
- Start browsing accessories (veil, shoes, jewelry) so you can build your full look.
6–8 Months Before: Your Dress Arrives
The moment every bride looks forward to, the call from a Laurel&Lace employee that your dress has arrived! 🎉
- You’ll come in for a pick-up appointment to try it on.
- We’ll check to make sure everything is correct.
- This is usually when we schedule your first fitting for alterations.
It’s an exciting milestone that makes everything feel real.
2–3 Months Before: First Fitting
Now it’s time to shape the dress to your body. Almost every gown needs a little tailoring to achieve the perfect fit. Currently we do not have an in-house seamstress at Laurel&Lace however we have a partnership with an excellent seamstress close to our boutique.
- Bring your wedding shoes and undergarments.
- The seamstress will pin and adjust the gown.
- This is where your dress begins to feel made for you.
4–6 Weeks Before: Second Fitting
Your gown will now be much closer to perfection.
- You’ll check how the dress moves when you walk and sit.
- Practice with the bustle so you’re ready for the reception.
- Any final tweaks will be noted.
1–2 Weeks Before: Final Fitting & Pick-Up
This is it, the dress is ready!
- Our seamstress partner will confirm every detail: hemline, straps, buttons, and bustle.
- You’ll bring your veil, jewelry, or hairpiece to see the complete bridal look.
- After this appointment, your gown goes home with you, safely stored until your big day.
Wedding Day: The Grand Reveal
When the big day arrives, you’ll step into a gown that feels like it was made just for you, because it was. All the planning, patience, and fittings come together in that one magical moment when you walk down the aisle.
Final Thoughts
Buying a wedding dress is more than a purchase, it’s an experience. By following this timeline, you’ll stay ahead of deadlines, avoid stress, and enjoy every step of the journey.
At Laurel & Lace, our mission is to make your bridal journey joyful, personalized, and unforgettable. From your first appointment to your final fitting, we’re here to celebrate you.
Ready to start your journey? Book your private appointment today and let’s find the gown of your dreams.