Congratulations, you’re engaged! Now it’s time to choose the wedding dress of your dreams and we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible.

Your wedding dress is among one of the first things that you’ll want to organise and arguably one of the most important. For most brides, the perfect time to begin wedding dress shopping is between twelve to eighteen months prior to their wedding day. While this might sound like a huge gap, it’s important to remember that it can take between six to nine months for your dress to arrive, and further three months for alterations. Giving yourself plenty of time means you’ll get the dress of your dreams without the added stress! 

Before booking a consultation with any bridal boutique you must do your research. While some offer a variety of styles, others may not. To prevent eating into your time and the appointments available at boutiques, avoid choosing locations that don’t hold the style of dress you’re after. If in doubt, get in touch or have a look at the styles we offer at Forever Bridal. 

How to book a consultation. 

Still thinking of booking? Fantastic! All you need to do is schedule an appointment that suits you (and your bride tribe). Head over to our booking system here to get started! Our opening hours are Wednesday 4-9, Thursday 9-9 and Saturday 9-5.

Bookings can only be made through the provided system and require a fee of £25. This can only be paid via PayPal. 

Things to know before your first consultation! 

• Our brides are highly encouraged to complete the intake form when booking. This allows you to tell us about your previous dress-shopping experiences, the style of dress you’re after and your budget, among other things. 
• While tan is allowed we ask that it be washed off forty-eight hours before your consultation. That said, we insist that no instant tan be applied before your appointment. This way our dresses remain clean and pristine for yourself and future brides.
• We currently provide seating for brides plus three. While we don’t discourage more attendees, we ask that you consider your and your guest’s comfort when booking. Some of our brides with bigger bridal parties have brought half to the first appointment and half to the second so that everyone has a chance to join in on the excitement. 
• You do not need to bring heels to your appointment. We have a five-inch platform provided and no heels are permitted on the platform for your safety. 
• Due to licensing laws we can’t offer bubbly. But you and your bridal party are welcome to bring your own and we’ll pop the cork!

Here’s what to expect from your first consultation! 

Expect laid-back vibes. 

Here at Forever Bridal we’re all about making you feel comfortable. This isn’t a formal occasion, it’s a getting-to-know-you and what you want from your dress. All while having a few laughs along the way. 

When you first come in we’ll take a seat and have a chat about you, your wedding and your budget. We have brides of all types; those who need 100% guidance and those who know what they want. Some arrive with Pinterest or Instagram albums full of dresses, and others need a little more help. Remember, there are no right or wrong answers, so don’t be embarrassed if you don’t know what you’re looking for. That’s why we’re here!

Expect expert advice and support.

Our appointments come with a collective knowledge of over twenty years across all of our consultants. While you can expect to try on all of the dresses on your wish list, trust our team to pull wildcards that they feel might be a good fit for you. Although these dresses may not be on your initial wish list, the dress of your dreams may be something you’ve never even considered. 

Expect our consultants to be hands-on.

Our consultants are there to make your experience as stress-free as possible. This includes helping you in and out of your dresses. But if you’re feeling uncomfortable with this aspect of your appointment feel free to speak to the girls, and they can step aside at any point. 

Feel free to let us know beforehand if you’d like to manage your dress fittings by yourself, or with the help of one of your bride tribe. 

Expect lots of different opinions.

Naturally, everyone will have an opinion. But remember that it’s your big day and your dress. While others may want to have their say, yours is the only one that really matters. 

You’ve found your wedding dress. Now what?

You’ve said yes to the dress! Amazing! But what now? 

Once you’re happy with your decision we require a fifty per cent non-refundable deposit towards your chosen wedding dress. From there we can take measurements and order one closest to your size. 

Our consultants will provide you with a list of pre-approved seamstresses Forever Bridal recommends. It’s then up to you to book alterations no later than three months before your wedding date. 

Not ready to fully commit?

Not ready to say yes to the dress? Don’t worry! There’s always the option to come back for a second consultation. It’s a big decision, so we understand that you might need some time to think about what you’ve tried on. In your second appointment, you’ll be invited to try on all of your favourites with a clear head and a better idea of what you want from your wedding dress. 

Not everyone finds their dress at Forever Bridal and that’s okay. There’s no pressure! We strive to send you on your way with more knowledge than before and one step closer to finding the dress of your dreams.