Congratulations!  You have booked your Appointment:  What to expect and how to prepare.

It’s finally happening!  You’ve booked your bridal appointment at Archela Bridal, and the countdown is on until you step into our boutique. We can’t wait to welcome you and be part of such a memorable chapter in your wedding journey.

For many brides, shopping for a wedding dress is an entirely new experience. If you’re wondering what to bring, how to prepare, and what will happen during your appointment, we’ve created a guide to help you feel confident and ready for this exciting day.

Inspiration

This is the time to bring your wedding day vision to life. Gather your ideas from Instagram, Pinterest, or our own website collections. Think about how you want to look and feel on your big day-elegant, modern, romantic, timeless-and allow that to guide your selections.

If your inspiration feels a little scattered, don’t stress. Our stylists are experts at narrowing your vision and guiding you toward gowns that reflect your personality and style.  Wedding gown shopping is an emotional experience and you never know what gown is going to give you that emotional pull.

Your Budget

It’s helpful to arrive with a realistic and honest budget in mind for your gown, while remembering that alterations and accessories are additional. Be open and honest with your stylist about what you’re comfortable with-our team is here to respect that and guide you toward dresses that align with your price point and make your appointment a truly worthwhile experience.  

Supportive Guests

We suggest bringing 2–4 trusted loved ones who know your style and will celebrate this milestone with you. Too many opinions can feel overwhelming, so choose those who will keep the focus on you.

Remember, there are other beautiful ways to involve additional family or friends later, like accessory styling appointments or fittings, so no one feels left out of the journey.

We appreciate your help in adhering to these recommendations to ensure your appointment is comfortable and we can provide you exceptional service.  If you wish to include more than 4 guests we encourage you to think of how to involve them in different appointments - or please do reach out to us in advance

Undergarments

Comfort is key. While our gowns are structured to provide support and many have inbuilt cups, you may choose to bring a strapless bra, adhesive cups, or seamless shape wear if that helps you feel more at ease. Nude underwear is recommended, as it creates the smoothest canvas under most fabrics.

When in doubt, bring your preferred undergarments along. Your stylist can always advise on what works best with each gown.

Hair & Tanning

Having a clip or tie to pin your hair up can make it easier to envision different necklines and keep you cool while trying on gowns. Better yet, consider styling your hair in a way that reflects how you might wear it on your wedding day, it can really help complete the picture.

We kindly ask you to avoid fresh spray tans before your appointment to keep our sample gowns pristine for every bride.

Shoes

Shoes are not necessary and make stepping in and out of gowns easier.  Your appointment will be in barefoot (or bring socks if you prefer for comfort). We provide platforms for you to step onto to help give you a clearer sense of length and proportions.

An Open Mind

Perhaps the most important thing to bring is an open heart and mind. Many brides fall in love with a gown they never expected, and your perfect dress may be waiting for you in a silhouette you hadn’t imagined. Trust your instincts, lean into the emotions of the moment, and let yourself be surprised.

Timeline & Delivery Expectations

Bridal Gowns take between 6-9 months for delivery to our showroom.  The more time you give yourself to choose your gown, the more choice you will have and you will avoid Designer rush fees.

If you have less time than 6 months - don't worry - we do carry a large selection of gowns that can be purchased immediately or may be delivered with a rush fee, you can however expect some limitations to choice and the increased likelihood of rush fees applying to your order.

The Archela Bridal Experience

From the moment you arrive, our stylists will listen carefully, guide thoughtfully, and celebrate every step with you. Appointments typically run for 90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore, try on gowns, and truly enjoy the process. Our stylists work one-on-on with you and will be in the fitting room with you helping you in and out of each gown. 

When you find the one, we’ll be right there with you, sharing in the joy of that unforgettable moment.

Your wedding dress journey is about more than just fabric and fit, it’s about memories, emotions, and the people who help you shine. At Archela Bridal, we’re honoured to be part of your story.