Why did you pick your gown?

I picked it because it had no beading and no lace! It was absolutely beautiful, with a long train and buttons along the back. I was totally into the little details.

Did you stay within your budget?

Umm ... no!

What was the hardest part about shopping for a dress?  

The fact that none of the samples fit! Other than that, it was also hard to stay within my mantra (no beading/no lace!).

Did you have any meltdowns?  

I only had one quasi-non-bridezilla breakdown when shopping for my gown. My father was diagnosed with cancer at the same time that Frank proposed to me. As a result, my mom wasn’t able to come shopping with me -- and she has always been my shopping companion. So, when I found “it” (the perfect dress), it broke my heart that she wasn’t there with me.

What tips would you give to brides-to-be? 

1. If you are bigger than a sample size, be sure to bring two binder clips and a shoelace. That’s the only way to hold the dress up!
   
   
2. Start out with an open mind, and try on all the types of dresses (mermaid, A-line, etc.), just to confirm what style you are looking for. Once you’ve decided, don’t go back!
   
   
3. Go to Kleinfeld in New York City! The service is outstanding, and the selection is unmatched.