Yes—and here’s how to keep her safe and gorgeous in transit. Whether you're flying to the mountains or saying “I do” on the beach, your gown should never go in checked luggage. Bring her as a carry-on in a breathable garment bag, and when possible, ask the flight attendant to hang her in the closet (most will!).

Still nervous? Bring a portable steamer or check with your hotel about pressing services when you arrive. Bridal shops like ours are always happy to share tips for destination brides—we’ve seen gowns go from pine forests to Paris with zero wrinkles (well, maybe just the emotional kind).

We get it—it’s tempting to invite the whole bridal party and your second cousin’s best friend. But honestly? Less is more. We recommend bringing 2–4 of your most supportive, honest, and hype-filled people. These are the folks who know your style and will cheer you on—not confuse you with a million opinions.

Too many voices can make it harder to hear your own. And this moment is all about you, remember? Trust your gut. Bring your people. Bridal shops like ours will take care of the rest.

Absolutely. Your beauty isn’t measured by a number on a tag, and your dress experience shouldn't be either. Bridal shops that care, like ours, carry a diverse range of sample sizes—including plus and curvy-friendly fits so you can actually try on gowns that work with your body, not just around it.

And if you're nervous about how things will look, know this: our stylists are trained to help you feel empowered, not self-conscious. No body shaming. No awkward mirrors. Just real women, real dresses, real joy.

Yes! Many of our designers offer custom options—think: adding straps, swapping fabrics, adjusting train lengths, or making that deep plunge just a little less... plungy. (I mean Grandma’s coming, right?)

If full custom isn't available on a style, bridal shops like ours will guide you through alteration-friendly choices to make the dress feel more you. So dream big, we’re here to help you create something truly one-of-a-kind.

Here’s the important stuff to know before visiting bridal shops like Bride of the Pines! Nude underwear is a must—for sanitary reasons, all brides are required to wear underwear while trying on gowns. You’ll also want to bring an open mind! Bridal shops carry a wide range of styles, and sometimes the gown you never expected to love becomes the one. No bra is needed, as our gowns come with built-in cups for support and comfort. Shapewear is totally optional—bring it if it makes you feel your best!

At Bride of the Pines, our wedding gowns typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, aligning with the national average. This range offers something for various styles and budgets. We also carry a curated selection of take-home-today gowns under $1,000 for brides seeking a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing style. 

According to Zippia, there are an average of two million weddings every year in the United States, so you're definitely not alone in navigating gown pricing! Bridal shops like ours are here to help you find a stunning dress that fits your style and your budget.

We recommend beginning your dress shopping about a year before your wedding. Some gowns can take 4-6 months to arrive, and it's a good idea to allow around 10 weeks for alterations. Shopping early gives you the best selection and a stress-free experience. Starting too soon could lead to indecision, while starting too late may limit your options. Visiting bridal shops early ensures you have time to fall in love with your dream dress!

When visiting bridal shops, we suggest bringing up to four trusted guests—people who will be supportive and help you feel confident throughout your dress-shopping experience. If you're concerned that a certain guest might make the experience a bit less enjoyable, consider planning a dress reveal appointment with them once your gown arrives. This way, you can have the best of both worlds-a positive shopping experience and a special reveal moment!

At Bride of the Pines, we have gowns ranging in size 2/4- 26 in store. For most designers, we can order up to a size 28/30. We believe every bride deserves to feel beautiful and confident, and we're proud to provide options for a wide range of body types. When you visit bridal shops like ours, you’ll find styles that celebrate every silhouette.

Don’t stress! We offer take-home-today dresses and veils for brides on a tight timeline. Additionally, we work with designers who can ship your gown in as little as 4–6 weeks. Whew! Whether you're planning a last-minute celebration or just want to move fast, bridal shops like ours are equipped to help you find the perfect gown—fast!