The pyschology of saying yes to the dress

Oh, weddings—known to bring out the best in everyone, right? Well, not quite. They can also bring out a side we’re less eager to see.

And who gets the brunt of it? The bride, of course. Unless she has a fiery maid of honor who’s willing to shield her, all those opinions and “advice” usually make their way back to her anyway.

For brides going into their first bridal appointment, especially those who aren’t outgoing or love the spotlight, it can feel like a lot. If you’re the extroverted type, then congratulations—you’re in for a memorable day. But imagine this: a stranger (your consultant, who you might bond with soon enough) helps you get dressed and undressed, squeezing you in and out of gowns that sometimes don’t even fit. And then, there’s an audience—usually family or friends—watching and weighing in on each choice. It’s like a birthday dinner, only turned up to a thousand.

And, of course, there's the fun sidekick called body image. That’s a lot to manage, which might explain why many bridal salons offer a glass of champagne. It’s a whirlwind, but with the right perspective, it can be an unforgettable experience for all the right reasons.

No need to fear!

Bridal stylists are trained to handle these fragile moments, ensuring you that you are in safe hands.

There is one vital thing I have learned in 8 years of styling. “The bride buys what she looks beautiful in. Not the style she wants”

It has always rang true, once I find the dress my bride looked the BEST in, she bought it. Whether she came in for a ballgown and left with a fitted, came in for lace and left with satin, she always bought the one that made her feel amazing or like a bride.

Don’t get bogged down with the idea that you have to have the perfect Pinterest board to relay the message to your stylist. Because at the end of the day, you are going to choose the one that gives you a feeling, the feeling, when you know you know. As corny as it sounds, it’s just so true. Open your mind and heart, and welcome new styles in, new ideas, explore all your options. The dress chooses the bride not the other way around. It has been truly magical being a bridal stylist and seeing the change in face and emotion as a bride finds the one.

I’ll never forget the feeling of “this bride just needs to feel beautiful” and I’d go pick out something in her exact size, that would showcase her best assets, and cue the tears……