Weddingbee boards

I'm not sure where you're planning on buying your dress, but there's a very good chance you won't have it right away.  I waited about 4 months for mine to come in, which I think is standard if you go through a bridal shop.  Check with the shop, though, because they may have some recommendations for you based on your dress.  

I was told to hang mine so that the train was not touching the floor (so I hung it from the top of a bookshelf).  If I'd had it for longer and had to store it before getting my alterations and having it pressed, I would have scooped the train onto a second hanger to help distribute the weight.

Mine is drapped over a chair because there is very heavy beading on it

Mine is hanging.  You could probably lay it down and then hang it after you get it pressed.  Ideally, I think you want to hang it so that the train falls straight down (doesn't crease) after pressing it.

my bridal shop is keeping my dress until all alterations are done, once I go for my last fitting, they will steam and press it, than i'm supposed to pick it up the week of the wedding, and hang it up till then. I don't think you have to worry too much about it until it's been steamed and pressed.