What were you looking for in a gown?

I was looking for a lot of stuff. There were so many factors, it almost seemed impossible.  I wanted the perfect mix of classic style and modern trends.

I studied fashion design and merchandising in college, so I had a pretty clear idea of what I wanted: a gown with enough trends to be modern, unique and couture, but not so much that I would regret showing my wedding album
in the years to come to our children and grandchildren. However, an ultra-classic gown just would not fit me either.

I thought I would be in such a bind and just end up designing my own gown, which I was dreading!  But it ended up that there was that perfect gown out there for me!

Did you know anything about gowns before you had to shop for one?

I knew too much about gowns before shopping! When studying fashion design, my focus was wedding gowns. I have worked in bridal boutiques and at the world's top wedding magazine, and have spent my entire life fascinated with every detail on wedding gowns. Truly, I have been sketching wedding gowns and planning this day since I was 4 years old.

Why did you pick your gown?

I thought this gown was just the cutest thing ever! The detail is amazing, the cut is perfect (modern, yet classic), the weight of the gown is just right, and I can wear the most wonderful accessories with it. The designer was a name that I knew and completely idolized. I also knew it was the gown when I had to skip (not just walk) out of the fitting room with it on and my family all looked satisfied. After having the dress on, I did not want to take it off and I could not stop giggling in it! I had to pick this gown, because everyone that knows me best -- besides Bryan, of course -- said that it was just "so Stephanie!"

Did you stay within your budget?

Budget ... well, one was never really set. I think I just knew my boundaries with my parents -- no ridiculous numbers on that price tag! We didn’t look at any prices until THE dress, and it was less than anyone thought my wedding dress would be. When my father said, "We could buy two dresses if they are all this price," I was surprised, but I think that meant I stayed within budget!

What was the hardest part about shopping for a dress?

I think I didn't expect to ever find the perfect dress  -- one that would meet all my high standards and years of dreaming up the most incredible gown. Not that I had a negative attitude toward gown shopping, I had just prepared myself to be disappointed. I wish I could have gone into Kleinfeld with a blank canvas, and no knowledge of wedding gowns or designers. Most brides will try on every style, color, shape and design of wedding gown to narrow the choices down to what works best. I just got right to the point!

Did you have any meltdowns?

No meltdowns! I could have possibly had a meltdown while shopping for a gown, but thanks to my mom, dad and sister constantly keeping me focused on what my personal style is, and what I had always wanted in a gown, it did not have to get to that point. Every time I walked out of the fitting room, they said, "Nice gown, but no!"  It is easy to let your emotions allow you to like a pretty gown while trying it on, but you could end up having a meltdown in the future if you are not totally in love with it.

Also, I have amazing wedding vendors that have worked with me wonderfully, so no meltdowns so far. But I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

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

When going gown shopping, do not study too hard! This will take away from the entire experience. Try to narrow down preferences according to your body type, coloring and the overall atmosphere of your wedding. Bring the people who know you the absolute best, so they can judge according to your personality. Most importantly, do not lose your personal style when picking out a gown; it has to be your style. You want to be able to look at your wedding gown for the rest of your life and still smile!

When planning your wedding, be sure to be unique. You can still have a classic wedding, but add some unique touches to it so no one confuses your wedding with another they have attended. At the end of the night, you want your guests to have had a wonderful time, and always remember how much your wedding fit your personalities as a couple.

Lastly, do not let anyone or anything stray you from your visions. Every girl has been planning their wedding forever (I know I have), and we know what we want. I have some unique ideas to add to my somewhat traditional wedding, and I have learned that if one vendor is not able to accommodate your needs, I promise you, another one will!

So, relax, smile through it and enjoy every moment. This is your one and only wedding day!