One of the most important decisions in the wedding planning process for the bride is the choice of the wedding dress. There is a lot of little details that go into this part of the wedding, and it is good to be prepared before you even begin looking for a dress.

Deciding on a wedding shop, or designer is critical to getting a dress you are happy with. If a prospective bride can find the perfect dress from a wholesale store, she can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending upon the dress. Wholesale bridal shops sell designer dresses at discount prices. However, brides need to go into a wholesale shop with specific designers and dresses in mind so that the sales people can help them find the perfect dress. Also, don't forget that many wedding discount stores sell designer look-alike dresses at a fraction of the price.

The first thing any bride to be will want to do is make a list of questions that will need to be answered. You will need to know if you have to make an appointment before visiting the dress shop of your choice, the price range that the store carries, and whether or not you will be able to see the store's whole selection of dresses. You will also need to ask if the shop can order a dress that is not in stock.

Once you have found a dress or two that you think will work, you will need to consider even more options. The style of dress you pick and its neckline should be considered. A dress with a scoop neckline will need the right accessories and undergarments to compliment the style. You will want to ask about what on the dress can be altered. If you don't like a certain part of the dress, such as the sleeves, can this be altered as well? You will want to ask for an estimate on alterations before you get them. You will also want to know if you can get discounts for buying bridesmaids dresses from the same shop. This will end up saving you time and money to work with the same store.

Another little thing you will want to check on is that the shop will have a veil or other type of headpiece that will match the dress.