Wedding Dress Timeline: When to Order

We recommend starting your search 12 to 14 months before your wedding date. This gives you time to browse, try on multiple silhouettes, and make a decision without feeling rushed.

Starting early also means you have the widest selection available. Designers release new collections throughout the year, and shopping early lets you see multiple seasons of gowns.

Once you have found your gown, place the order. Wedding dresses can take anywhere from 2 to 9 months to arrive depending on the designer and time of year. Ordering early gives you the full window.

A deposit is required to place your order. At Boulevard Bride, we offer interest-free payment plans of 3, 6, or 9 months so you can spread the cost over time.

When your gown arrives, it is time for alterations. We recommend starting alterations 3 to 4 months before the wedding. Most brides need a hem, strap adjustment, and a bustle.

We do not do alterations in-house, but we provide a list of recommended seamstresses in the area. Alterations are not included in the price of the gown.

Your final fitting should happen 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding. This gives your seamstress time to make any last adjustments after the fitting.

Bring the shoes and undergarments you plan to wear on the wedding day to every fitting. The hem and bodice fit depend on your exact heel height and shapewear.

If your wedding is less than 6 months away, call us. We have in-stock gowns available for immediate purchase, and some designers offer rush orders for an additional fee. We will help you find a path that works.

Do not assume you are out of options. We have helped brides find their gown in weeks, not months. The key is calling us early so we can explore every option.