Let’s be real, the wedding dress is the most exciting part of the wedding day. It’s the most anticipated part and makes the love store come together. For me, as a photographer, it’s definitely my favorite part when starting to take getting ready photos- seeing what dress the bride picked!
“A wedding dress is both intimate and personal for a woman — it must reflect the personality and style of the bride.” — Carolina Herrera
Here are some tips to keep in mind while dress shopping!
- Do YOU! There will be opinions when dress shopping, especially when shopping with girlfriends + family, stick to what you like and what your style is. The older generation will mostly lean towards what’s ‘traditional’ however times have changed and there are so many new styles available.
- Bring girlfriends along that you trust, that will give you an honest opinion, or if overwhelmed, go by yourself, (I did!) there is always a bridal consultant when trying on dresses and they can help.
- Dresses that are flowy will look Amazing in photos! Loose fabric on the skirt will blow in the wind, and are always favorites to work with; compared to dresses that are sleek and form fitting
Here’s my top five wedding shops in San Diego-
Grace Loves Lace
A new showroom in San Diego, but a favorite brand for a long time. If you are getting married and are a free spirit bride, you know Grace Loves Lace! The new showroom has been transformed from an old chapel in downtown San Diego, and now holds amazing dresses. Think french lace, fringe and character. The gowns are known to be comfortable and for the modern bride. I have been following this brand on insta forever!
The Dress Theory
Another favorite shop, super cute and aesthetically pleasing on the inside, with wedding dresses to match! Whether you’re a modern bride, traditional or looking for something different, Dress Theory will have something for you. Some favorite brands they carry are Rue De Seine, known for its bold lace and stunning gowns, Flora Bridal– soft lace and romantic flowy dresses, Sarah Seven, Bo & Luca + more.
BHLDN
We all love Anthropologie, so of course we love its wedding shop- BHLDN, located in The Forum, Encinitas. THere is lots of variety here, for the boho bride. As well as a bride who needs a dress fast, and doesn’t want to wait months to get it. Once you try on a dress ,you can have it the same week! There are brands such as Watters, as well as tons of accessories for the wedding day, as well as bridesmaids + guest dresses.
White Flower Boutique
A more traditional shop, White Flower Boutique has lots of dress choices. The shop also have ongoing trunk shows by designers they carry, which lets you try on new gowns, from new seasons; and they usually have a small discount if you pick your dress that day!
Lovely Bride
A popular choice in San Diego, Lovely Bride has a lot to choose from, with 20+ wedding brands in store! Some favorites for the boho bride are Lovers Society + Made with Love.
Getting married? View my recent weddings here.
