Dress shopping can be overwhelming, but being prepared and having great support can make a big difference on this experience. When talking to the experts at PureBridal here in Ames, they share some secrets to having your dress ready by your wedding day.

When going to look for your dress for the very first time, be sure it is from six months to a year away from your planned wedding date. Keep in mind that after ordering your dress, it might need to have alterations, which can take about two months.

To prevent any disasters, order your dress at the size you are on that day. If you plan on losing weight, it is easier to alter the dress to accommodate your new body than having to order more material for a dress that did not fit.

“If you are coming in with a set budget, keep in mind that you will not only be paying for the dress,” said Rita Gartin, of PureBridal. “Do not forget about the alterations, veil, shoes, accessories, shipping fee and storage fee [if applies]. So, do not wait until the last minute to get your dress.”

When picking a dress, keep in mind your body type, and be realistic about weight goals. Do not stress out if you do not find the perfect dress the first time you try some on.

“A lot of bridal shops carry the same line and all over the world girls wear the same dress, so make it your own, add a belt, change the buttons in the back to a corsage anything to give it some of your personality,” Gartin said.

On your final dress fitting there are some essentials you should not forget. Make sure to bring the following items with you: your bra, underwear, body-shaping undergarments, shoes to get the final hemline, veil and any accessories you might be wearing.

On your final fitting, you want to get an idea of what you will be looking like on the actual wedding date. Bring your support system with you so not all the pressure is put on you. Also bring a camera along to keep memories; some brides use these pictures for a future scrapbook.

The groom has the option of either renting or buying a tuxedo — most chose to just rent to cut budget down. They should wait no more than two months before the wedding date to go in and get measured.

A lot of bridal shops like PureBridal accommodate the groom with having tuxedos in the store, but if the groom wants to specifically go to a tuxedo shop Milroy’s Tuxedos is available in Ames.

The groom must keep in mind all the modern styles of tuxedos that are available, so make time to go and try out what style looks best on you. It is your wedding day too and you should look just as flawless as the bride will.