The best place to start is the internet. It is easy and free! Use popular search engines to find the best wedding planning and wedding dress designer websites. Search these sites for popular designs and save images of your favorite wedding dresses.

Take note of the style you tend to be drawn to and also note down what you like about each wedding dress. Find real reviews and testimonials for your favorite designers to get a real guide on their service and quality.

The next step is to buy a few wedding magazines. They are expensive, but well worth the money when your wedding dress research is concerned. These are great because you can cut wedding dresses out and if you want to have your gown made buy a designer or a seamstress, cut out dresses and stick your favorite parts together. Cut the bodice off one and the skirt of another. This will help you to visualize the design you want and will also help to relay your thoughts to you wedding dress designer or seamstress.

Now you are ready for the fun part! Trying on those beautiful gowns you have had your eye on!

Even if you are having your wedding dress made, it is always best to try on similar styles to the one you have chosen. This will ensure the shape and cut will flatter your figure and help with other decisions like the shape of the bust line, strapless or non-strapless, full skirt, a-line or slinky. Remember wedding dresses always look different on the rack and on the models then they will look on you.

When you are looking and trying on wedding dresses, there are a few things you should check. Check the seam line and make sure it is even and neat, feel the quality of the fabric and always choose high quality materials. High quality materials will look nice and sit better on your body. Ask the store if they have a seamstress on duty and discus with her/him any changes you would like to make and ask if they are possible.

Once you have found your dream wedding dress and you are ready to place your order you will need to be measured by the store so they can order the correct size for you. When you attend your measurement appointment you will need to have the shoes you are wearing on your wedding day as many hemlines are made to the length ordered and it is very difficult to change the length. Be sure to check with the seamstress if you want to change the length of the wedding dress after it has been ordered.

Most wedding dress designers have a lead time of 3-6 months as the dresses are generally made in Europe or Asia and are made when the order is placed. Most designers produce wedding dresses in batches every 3-4 months so ensure you allow enough time for your order to be filled.

Once you have chosen your design and placed your order ask the store if you can take a photo of the gown on. This will help when selecting jewelry, make up and hair design.