Weddingbee Blog

When we last left off, I was about to head off on my journey into the brave new world of Los Angeles wedding salons. I was a bit nervous at first about my solo status: were the bridal consultants going to take me seriously as a customer? Was I going to be able to sort through all of the different options on my own? Would I actually be the best judge of which style or silhouette was most flattering on me? Should I have worn cuter underwear?

Overall, my worries were completely unfounded; in fact, I had a great time! I found that shopping alone allowed me to focus on my immediate reaction to a dress. I only had to think about how I felt in the dress or what I felt about it. I never was overwhelmed with multiple opinions or confused by differing reactions—one of the very real risks of having a large and highly opinionated entourage. The consultants were helpful without being pushy. When I decided that I liked a dress, I simply snapped a quick photo of it on my camera phone (sometimes secretly) and sent it off to my mom, sister, and friends.

I went to three different stores over the course of a week. During this week, I found three dresses that I liked enough to photograph and send out for second opinions. At this point, you are probably itching for the dress photos, so here they are.

Dress #1:

Left image via The Knot / Right image personal (and ridiculous)

It might be hard to tell from my supermodel-esque pose in this picture, but this dress was actually flattering in person. It’s the Venus Informal VN6631 (what a romantic name!), which is made of royal taffeta. What I liked most about this dress was that it was lightweight and comfortable. It didn’t have a train, so I wouldn’t have to worry about a bustle. Also, the price was incredibly reasonable.

Dress #2:

Left image via bestbridalprices.com / Right image personal

At the next store, I tried on Ellen by Maggie Sottero, a stretch-satin A-line with some sparkly details. It was the first time that I tried on a strapless dress. Also, this was the first time that I experienced the magical, waist-whittling powers of the corset back. I was absolutely stuffed into the sample, but I still could tell how flattering the style would be. I felt pretty glam.

Dress #3:

Left image via Peridress.com / Right image personal

I can’t even play coy. If my crazy grin didn’t already give it away, I fell in love with this dress as soon as I slipped it on. This is the Watters and Watters Tuscany. It’s lace and silk organza with a bubble hem and crystal belt. I felt so beautiful in it. Equally importantly, I felt comfortable in it: almost like this was something that I would pick out to wear in my regular life (that is, of course, if I had occasions to wear fluffy white dresses on a daily basis). Luckily for my budget, this dress was discontinued, so I was able to buy the sample for about a third of the original retail price.

You might be wondering now why I didn’t put up the standard warning to Mr. Mole on this post to avoid him accidentally seeing my dress. Well, you see, he has already seen it on purpose. Even though I instantly loved the Tuscany, I still wanted a second opinion to make sure that I wasn’t letting the low price affect my judgment. So I turned to the person whom I trust the most: Mr. Mole. I shot him a quick picture message. Within 45 seconds, he texted me back to say that he loved it—and loved me in it. I then plunked down the cash and went home with a dress.

I know it’s not traditional for the groom to see the dress before the big day. But we aren’t exactly a traditional couple. And we aren’t really having a traditional wedding. So the tradition for me was less important than his opinion.

Would you ever show your dress to your SO before you walk down the aisle? Why or why not?