Weddingbee boards

I found my dress at the February Running of the Brides.  I took my cousin (the most helpful, least judgmental person) and we went after work at 5pm.  There was also a snow storm that day, so I imagine that deterred a number of shoppers.  In any case, I had plenty of dresses to choose from that I really liked!  And there was the added bonus that most of the morning runners left their mirrors there so we didn't need to bring one. 

Tips:

1. Wear spandex bike shorts or leggings and bring high heels. 

2. Don't wear a sports bra--you won't get a feel for the dress with that thing on, bring a strapless or just a regular and tuck your straps down.  Also, wear a button-down or zippy so it's easy to get in and out for quick changes.

3. Don't bring a purse.  It will get in the way when you are hauling dresses around. 

4. Check your modesty at the door!  Try to remember that nobody is looking at you, everyone is scouring the dress racks instead.

5. Bring a digital camera!  It's always best to see how it looks on a screen instead of in a mirror.

6. Don't wear makeup.  Even though most of the dresses could use a cleaning it's unfortunate when makeup gets on it--sometimes it doesn't come out.

Probably not worth the hassle and expense.  You have plenty of time to shop!  Try the local stores and watch for sample sales in your area.  Many stores will be changing over their stock before your wedding and getting rid of current styles at a significant discount.