THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN SHOPPING FOR A WEDDING DRESS

Do you know the story of Adeline who got to go wedding dress hunting? Well, that was actually this weekend. And no, she hasn't said yes to the dress yet. Good news for me, because that means I get to go along one more time. Olé! But while I was there trying on the rules of the brides I learned the ee-ee-aa. Are you going shopping for your dress soon? Then there's a chance I'll be there too, and these are the things you should keep in mind.

Dresses on Pinterest are not reality.

Those dream examples are about 15,000 euros per little detail and unless you're a millionaire, they're out of your league. Go to your bridal shop's website and see what things cost in your price range. It's more realistic.

Make sure you're ready to walk out with a different dress.

So you want a lace version with sleeves and no train? Then prepare yourself for tight, chic, and a train of five meters. I have it from a reliable (bridal boutique) source that 50 to 75 percent of brides walk out with a totally different dress than what was on her picture.

50 to 75 percent of brides walk out with a totally different dress than what was on her picture.

It has to click with your saleswoman.

You're standing there half the time in a skin-colored thong and bra (make sure you have those for fitting), so it's pretty important that you feel a connection with the lady in question. If she's the opposite of what you are and you feel little to nothing? Quickly check with another consultant.

You're not in ‘Say Yes to the Dress’.

Randy has a maximum airtime, so it's crucial that the bride says ‘yes’ around dress number three. On television, this goes smoothly, in real life it can take twenty dresses. Be prepared.

Take your time.

And if you put your head through dress number fifteen? No panic. Go home now (or better yet, to a nice bar), have a glass of wine and make a new wedding dress plan. But especially don't settle for a dress you're not in love with. You're getting married and this is your day, remember?

On a budget.

And if the mother of all wedding dresses says she has something that's totally you? First, ask about the budget. It's not fun for anyone if you fall in love with a dress that requires an extra month of work.

Image: Anne Edgar