• Never, ever crash diet or buy a gown sizes smaller with the expectation of losing weight. It is far easier to take a gown in, than it is to have it customized and then taken out if you don't meet your goal. Don't put unrealistic expectations on your plate. You have enough to deal with. If weight is an issue for you, I strongly suggest that utilize the services of a personal trainer. We have a Buff Brides package that allows you to work with a personal trainer to get your body the way you want it - not only for your wedding, but for life! Be realistic: there is no way you can go (intelligently and safely) from a size 20 to a 4 in a year. I don't care what anyone says. Embrace yourself for who and what you are, and work with what you've got!

Now that we've got that out of the way, let's talk shop! There are many things to consider when choosing the perfect gown - color, your complexion, size, cut, and the formality of your event. The latter is something I think a lot of brides forget to associate with their gown and wedding. As strange as it might seem, there are brides that will choose an ultra-formal gown for their Sunday Brunch garden wedding. Again, this is the first step of self-acceptance and a big dose of reality.

Take your measurements. What are you - short, tall, pear-shaped, or thin? Be honest with yourself. While the gowns you see online in magazines and books are gorgeous, it is always best that you try them on.