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Advice Dress Shopping News Trends Wedding Dresses Wedding Planning

Involving bridesmaids

Involving bridesmaids

When it comes to a wedding, your bridesmaids are your support system, your confidants, and your best friends. They have been by your side throughout the planning process, and they will be there on your big day. Including your bridesmaids in your wedding planning can not only be helpful but also fun and meaningful. Here are some tips for involving your bridesmaids in your wedding planning.

  1. Be clear about expectations: When you ask your bridesmaids to be a part of your wedding, make sure to clearly communicate your expectations. Let them know what you expect of them, what their responsibilities will be, and how much involvement you are looking for. Be open to their feedback and suggestions, but also make sure to establish boundaries.
  2. Give them specific tasks: If you have specific tasks you need help with, delegate them to your bridesmaids. This can include anything from helping with DIY projects to addressing invitations. Giving your bridesmaids specific tasks can make them feel more involved and invested in the planning process.
  3. Ask for their opinions: Your bridesmaids are your closest friends, and they know you well. Ask for their opinions on everything from your wedding colors to your centerpieces. Their input can be valuable, and it can also make them feel like they are contributing to your special day.
  4. Plan fun events: Planning a wedding can be stressful, so make sure to plan some fun events with your bridesmaids. This can include things like dress shopping, spa days, or a night out on the town. These events can help build camaraderie and make the planning process more enjoyable.

When it comes to choosing your wedding gown, it’s important to involve your family and bridesmaids while still making your own decision. Here are some tips to help you navigate this process:

  1. Do your research: Before you start shopping for your wedding gown, do your research. Look at different styles, fabrics, and designers so you have a good idea of what you like and what you don’t like. This will help you make a more informed decision.
  2. Bring your family and bridesmaids to appointments: When you go wedding gown shopping, it’s a good idea to bring your family and bridesmaids with you. This can help you get feedback and opinions, but make sure to establish boundaries beforehand. Let them know that while you value their input, the final decision will be yours.
  3. Take your time: Don’t rush into a decision when it comes to choosing your wedding gown. Make sure you have a good rapport with our bridal stylist, and can trust the boutique you’re creating a relationship with, you should be able to rely on them for the entirety of your engagement. This will ensure that you find the perfect dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
  4. Trust your instincts: Ultimately, the decision of which wedding gown to choose is yours. Trust your instincts and choose a gown that makes you feel amazing. Don’t let the opinions of others sway you if you know in your heart that a certain dress is the one for you.

Involving your bridesmaids in your wedding planning and choosing your wedding gown can be a fun and rewarding experience. Everyone’s goal should be to make sure you love your gown and feel supported in your decision. Remember to communicate clearly, delegate tasks, ask for opinions, plan fun events, and ultimately trust your instincts.

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Advice News Trends Wedding Dresses Wedding Planning

Styled shoots in Peterborough

Styled shoots in Peterborough

Since opening our second location in Peterborough, Ontario, we have had the immense pleasure of being invited to collaborate with photographers from that area. Our Sinders Bridal House – Peterborough location provides the gowns and the expertise and now we want to share the end result with you.

Styled shoots have become increasingly popular in the wedding industry over the past few years. They are a collaborative effort between vendors to create a mock wedding or event for the purpose of showcasing their skills, services, and products. From florists to photographers, planners to designers, and everything in between, styled shoots provide an opportunity for wedding professionals to come together and showcase their talents.

As a wedding gown boutique, participating in styled shoots is crucial to showcasing the different styles we offer to brides. It’s one thing to describe a dress on paper or on a hanger, but it’s an entirely different experience for a bride to see it in action. Styled shoots allow us to showcase our dresses in a beautiful setting with a cohesive theme, making it easier for brides to envision how our gowns fit into their wedding day vision. We can equate it to looking for your future home. You like to see the space out set nicely so that you can envision what that home could be, even if your style might be different.

Not only does participating in styled shoots help us showcase our work, but it also allows us to meet and network with other vendors in the wedding industry. This is especially important for newer vendors who are trying to establish themselves in the market. You never know which photographer or florist or makeup artist might be an undiscovered talent. Collaborating with other vendors on a styled shoot can lead to future referrals and a trusted network of professionals that we can pass along to our brides, which is beneficial for everyone involved.

When it comes to showcasing wedding gowns, it’s important to use real people as models. The typical model seen on the internet may not represent the vast range of body types and skin tones that brides come in. Using real people as models helps brides see what a wedding gown will actually look like on someone who looks like them. This can help eliminate some of the anxiety that brides can have about not being able to find a wedding dress that looks good on them. You would not believe how often we hear about this anxiety when a bride is first starting out, both at our Ottawa and Peterborough locations.

Styled shoots are an important aspect of the wedding industry that benefits vendors and brides alike. They allow wedding professionals to showcase their work and network with other vendors, while also helping brides see what styles are available to them and what wedding gowns actually look like on real people. As a trusted wedding gown boutique, we highly recommend that other wedding professionals become involved in styled shoots. And to our brides, we highly recommend you watch for styled shoots on your social media as a way to match your personality and your vibe to that of the wedding vendors you will be looking to book for your own wedding day.

Book Your Appointment at Peterborough

Styled shoots in Peterborough

Since opening our second location in Peterborough, Ontario, we have had the immense pleasure of being invited to collaborate with photographers from that area. Our Sinders Bridal House – Peterborough location provides the gowns and the expertise and now we want to share the end result with you.

Styled shoots have become increasingly popular in the wedding industry over the past few years. They are a collaborative effort between vendors to create a mock wedding or event for the purpose of showcasing their skills, services, and products. From florists to photographers, planners to designers, and everything in between, styled shoots provide an opportunity for wedding professionals to come together and showcase their talents.

As a wedding gown boutique, participating in styled shoots is crucial to showcasing the different styles we offer to brides. It’s one thing to describe a dress on paper or on a hanger, but it’s an entirely different experience for a bride to see it in action. Styled shoots allow us to showcase our dresses in a beautiful setting with a cohesive theme, making it easier for brides to envision how our gowns fit into their wedding day vision. We can equate it to looking for your future home. You like to see the space outset nicely so that you can envision what that home could be, even if your style might be different.

Not only does participating in styled shoots help us showcase our work, but it also allows us to meet and network with other vendors in the wedding industry. This is especially important for newer vendors who are trying to establish themselves in the market. You never know which photographer or florist or makeup artist might be an undiscovered talent. Collaborating with other vendors on a styled shoot can lead to future referrals and a trusted network of professionals that we can pass along to our brides, which is beneficial for everyone involved.

When it comes to showcasing wedding gowns, it’s important to use real people as models. The typical model seen on the internet may not represent the vast range of body types and skin tones that brides come in. Using real people as models helps brides see what a wedding gown will actually look like on someone who looks like them. This can help eliminate some of the anxiety that brides can have about not being able to find a wedding dress that looks good on them. You would not believe how often we hear about this anxiety when a bride is first starting out, both at our Ottawa and Peterborough locations.

Styled shoots are an important aspect of the wedding industry that benefits vendors and brides alike. They allow wedding professionals to showcase their work and network with other vendors, while also helping brides see what styles are available to them and what wedding gowns actually look like on real people. As a trusted wedding gown boutique, we highly recommend that other wedding professionals become involved in styled shoots. And to our brides, we highly recommend you watch for styled shoots on your social media as a way to match your personality and your vibe to that of the wedding vendors you will be looking to book for your own wedding day.

Book Your Appointment at Peterborough

Styled shoots in Peterborough

Since opening our second location in Peterborough, Ontario, we have had the immense pleasure of being invited to collaborate with photographers from that area. Our Sinders Bridal House – Peterborough location provides the gowns and the expertise and now we want to share the end result with you.

Styled shoots have become increasingly popular in the wedding industry over the past few years. They are a collaborative effort between vendors to create a mock wedding or event for the purpose of showcasing their skills, services, and products. From florists to photographers, planners to designers, and everything in between, styled shoots provide an opportunity for wedding professionals to come together and showcase their talents.

As a wedding gown boutique, participating in styled shoots is crucial to showcasing the different styles we offer to brides. It’s one thing to describe a dress on paper or on a hanger, but it’s an entirely different experience for a bride to see it in action. Styled shoots allow us to showcase our dresses in a beautiful setting with a cohesive theme, making it easier for brides to envision how our gowns fit into their wedding day vision. We can equate it to looking for your future home. You like to see the space outset nicely so that you can envision what that home could be, even if your style might be different.

Not only does participating in styled shoots help us showcase our work, but it also allows us to meet and network with other vendors in the wedding industry. This is especially important for newer vendors who are trying to establish themselves in the market. You never know which photographer or florist or makeup artist might be an undiscovered talent. Collaborating with other vendors on a styled shoot can lead to future referrals and a trusted network of professionals that we can pass along to our brides, which is beneficial for everyone involved.

When it comes to showcasing wedding gowns, it’s important to use real people as models. The typical model seen on the internet may not represent the vast range of body types and skin tones that brides come in. Using real people as models helps brides see what a wedding gown will actually look like on someone who looks like them. This can help eliminate some of the anxiety that brides can have about not being able to find a wedding dress that looks good on them. You would not believe how often we hear about this anxiety when a bride is first starting out, both at our Ottawa and Peterborough locations.

Styled shoots are an important aspect of the wedding industry that benefit vendors and brides alike. They allow wedding professionals to showcase their work and network with other vendors, while also helping brides see what styles are available to them and what wedding gowns actually look like on real people. As a trusted wedding gown boutique, we highly recommend that other wedding professionals become involve in styled shoots. And to our brides we highly recommend you watch for styled shoots on your social media as a way to match your personality and your vibe to that of the wedding vendors you will be looking to book for your own wedding day.

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Advice Dress Shopping News Wedding Dresses

Sinders Bridal House Peterborough – surpassing expectations

Sinders Bridal House Peterborough – surpassing expectations

Finding the perfect wedding gown is one of the most important parts of the wedding planning process. It’s a moment that many brides have been dreaming of since they were young. And for brides in the Peterborough and greater Toronto area, there’s one bridal shop that has been surpassing all expectations in terms of the experience, knowledge of stylists, and quality of gowns: Sinders Bridal House – Peterborough.

Located in the heart of downtown Peterborough, Sinders Bridal House has become the go-to destination for brides looking for a personalized and memorable shopping experience. From the moment you step into the store, you’re greeted with warmth and enthusiasm from the staff. They truly care about making your wedding gown dreams a reality.

One of the things that sets Sinders apart is the level of knowledge and expertise of their stylists. They have a team of experienced and talented stylists who are dedicated to helping brides find their perfect dress. These stylists have an in-depth knowledge of bridal fashion and can guide brides through the different styles, fabrics, and designs available. They also take the time to understand each bride’s unique style and preferences to ensure they find the dress that’s right for them.

Sinders also has a wide selection of gowns from some of the top designers in the industry. They have options for every bride, whether you’re looking for something traditional, modern, or unique. And the quality of the gowns is unparalleled. Each dress is made with attention to detail and craftsmanship that ensures it will look stunning on your wedding day. No matter what size or style, you will know that you’re taken care of and allowed to be beautiful just the way you are.

But it’s not just the gowns that make Sinders special. It’s the overall experience that they provide. They understand that finding your dream dress is a special moment, and they go above and beyond to make it unforgettable. From the personalized attention to the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, every aspect of the shopping experience is designed to make brides feel like they are the most important person in that room.

Sinders Bridal House has truly surpassed all expectations in their area for the experience you expect when choosing your wedding gown.  They’re a true gem in the Peterborough community and a must-visit for any bride looking for the perfect wedding dress.

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Advice News Wedding Dresses Wedding Planning

Planning a Fall or Winter Wedding

For those who are planning a fall or winter wedding.

Spring is a time of renewal, growth, and hope. As the snow melts and the days get longer, we begin to see the world with fresh eyes and a renewed sense of purpose. It’s the perfect time to start planning for the future, whether it’s a new project, a new job, or a new life with someone special.

For those who are planning a fall or winter wedding, spring is the ideal time to start thinking about wedding gowns. It may seem like a daunting task, but with the right mindset and a little bit of planning, you can find the perfect gown that will make you feel beautiful and confident on your big day. Combined with the experience and guidance from our expert stylists at Sinders Bridal House in either Ottawa or Peterborough, you can rest assured you will find the perfect gown you can say yes to, so you can say I do.

If your wedding is this autumn or winter then ordering your gown now gives you just enough time for it to arrive and have a fitting with a qualified seamstress. But if your wedding is next spring or summer then one of the biggest advantages of choosing your wedding gown in the spring is that you have plenty of time to find the right dress. You won’t feel rushed or pressured to make a decision, and you can take your time to try on different styles and designs until you find the one that feels just right. We always suggest that if you feel you need that shopping experience, then by all means make one or two appointments with a bridal shop in your area. Then when you’ve narrowed your selections and feel like you’re ready to find the one that will meet all your expectations Sinders will be here to make sure it is perfect for you. Finding your gown with Sinders Bridal House ensures that you will always be taken care of, through making sure you’re comfortable with your decision, staying within budget, having the gown fitted down to every last detail, and even going to your wedding with to make sure that is perfect as well!

Another benefit of shopping for your wedding gown in the spring is that you can take advantage of the beautiful weather and natural light to see how the dress looks in natural lighting. This is especially important if you plan to have an outdoor wedding. By trying on dresses in natural lighting, you’ll be able to see how the dress looks in different lighting conditions and make sure it’s the perfect fit for your special day.

Finally, choosing your wedding gown in the spring allows you to focus on other aspects of your wedding planning as the summer months approach. You can rest easy knowing that you have your dress taken care of and move on to other important details, such as venue selection, floral arrangements, and catering.

In conclusion, spring is a great time to choose your wedding gown in preparation for a fall or winter wedding. By taking advantage of sales, natural lighting, and the time you have available, you can find the perfect dress that will make you feel confident and beautiful on your big day. So embrace the spring season and start planning your dream wedding today!

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Advice News Wedding Dresses

Top Tips

Top Tips

Congratulations on your engagement! Whether your engagement happened just recently over the holidays, or a little while before that, we want to welcome you to our blog, and discuss a couple of the things you’ll want to think about before making your appointments at the top wedding gown boutiques in your area.

Choosing the right wedding gown is a big decision for any bride, and it can be overwhelming trying to find the perfect dress. If you’re in the Peterborough area, there are plenty of bridal stores to choose from, each offering their own unique selection and experience. Our first piece of advice is to do your research. Above all else, you want to know that you can trust in your stylist and in the bridal boutique that will be ordering your gown. They will be taking care of you, the bride, and your wedding dress for a long time and we like to think of it as a relationship. Be sure they are knowledgeable about their designers and their gowns. More so make sure they treat you with the utmost respect and will do everything in their power to make your gown perfect. No matter your size, your budget, or the gown you’re looking for, the best bridal shop will have all the answers and be more than happy to help you.

One of the first things to consider when shopping for a wedding gown is your budget. It’s important to have a rough idea of how much you’re willing to spend before you start trying on dresses. This will help narrow down your options and make the process less overwhelming. Be honest about this with the boutiques you want to visit. Every shop has wedding gowns in a range of prices, but you do not want to fall in love with a gown that is above your budget.

Next, think about your personal style and the overall look and feel you want for your wedding. Do you envision a traditional, formal ceremony or a more relaxed, bohemian celebration? Your dress should reflect the overall tone and theme of your wedding. Your wedding gown should be a reflection of you and your personal style. It should also enhance your beauty but it should also make you feel like the best representation of yourself on your wedding day.

It’s also helpful to bring along a trusted friend or family member for support and honest feedback. Gather a few of your closest people, but also be sure that the group you brings has only your best interest at heart. The style we are looking for in your wedding gown is the one that suits you best. You are the one who has researched styles, fits, designers, and budgets. If your party has not done this with you then they are not in the same shopping space you are.

As you start trying on dresses, pay attention to how each one makes you feel. When you find the one that gives you that “I said yes” moment, you’ll know it’s the one. Be aware if your personality is one that typically has an ah-ha moment, or if you lean into your emotions when making decisions. If you are more analytical and less emotional then it might not be the ah-ha moment for you. Instead, it’s perfectly normal to find your gown based on that being the one that ticks every box for you. Or it’s the one you can picture yourself walking down the aisle in. Or it’s the one you’re sure will make your partner’s jaw drop when they see you.

Above all, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience. Finding the perfect wedding gown should be an enjoyable and memorable moment in the lead-up to your big day. Best of luck on your search and reach out to us with any questions you have! We would absolutely love to share that moment with you and be involved in your big day!

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Advice News Wedding Dresses

Social Media

Social Media

Social media has revolutionized the way we shop for wedding dresses and find inspiration for our wedding day. With a simple search or hashtag, you can discover a plethora of options and styles to choose from. Here’s how to use some popular social media platforms to find the perfect wedding gown for you.

Instagram:

Instagram is a great place to start your search for a wedding dress. You can search for hashtags such as #weddingdress, #bridalgown, or #weddinginspo to see a variety of dresses and styles. You can also check out the accounts of bridal designers and boutiques to see their latest collections. For example, we will use #sindersbride for our past brides’ wedding photos, or #sindersbridalhouse when we want you to know that a certain gown is available in the boutique. If you find a dress you like, you can usually click on the tag or hashtag to see more dresses from that designer or collection.
One of the best things about using Instagram for your wedding dress search is that you can get a more personal look at the dresses. Many bridal boutiques and designers will post pictures of real brides wearing their dresses, so you can get an idea of how the dress looks on a real body rather than just on a model. You can also see how the dress looks in different settings, such as at the beach or in a garden, to help you envision your own wedding day. At Sinders Bridal – both the Ottawa and Peterborough locations – we have our stylists model new arrivals so that you can see what the gown will look like on a real person.


YouTube:

YouTube is another great resource for finding wedding dresses and getting inspiration. Many bridal boutiques and designers have their own YouTube channels where they showcase their latest collections or do dress try-on hauls. You can also find tons of wedding vlogs where brides document their dress-shopping journey and share their final dress choices. Watching these videos can give you a better idea of what it’s like to try on dresses and what to expect when you start shopping.
On our channel @sindersbridalhouse we will also walk you through the process of finding your gown, and what to expect when you arrive. We realize this can be a daunting experience for some so our hope is to ease as many nerves as we can and make you as comfortable as possible before you find your wedding gown!

Pinterest:

Pinterest is an excellent platform for collecting and organizing all of your wedding inspiration, including dresses. You can create a board specifically for wedding dresses and start pinning dresses that you like. You can also search for specific terms such as “lace wedding dresses” or “boho wedding dresses” to see a curated selection of dresses in your desired style.
One of the benefits of using Pinterest is that you can easily see how different dresses look when paired with different accessories, hairstyles, and makeup. You can also see how different styles of dresses look on different body types, which can be helpful if you’re unsure what style will flatter your figure.
Bridal shops that are technology savvy and who have a great social media presence will also have a Pinterest page. We have found that this is the best way to let our brides know what we have in stock so in your research stage be sure to look through our Pinterest page under Sinders Bridal. You’ll see boards designated for both Ottawa and Peterborough so you will know what you can find at the location that is closest to you.
Overall, social media is a great tool for finding and getting inspiration for your wedding dress. With the help of Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest, you can easily discover a wide range of options and styles to choose from.

We love being involved with our brides right from the research and planning stages that involve our social media platforms. If you have questions or need clarification on something you see on our social DM us, text, email, or call. We would love to help.
Happy dress shopping!

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Advice Wedding Dresses Wedding Planning

Wedding Dress Timelines

Let’s talk wedding dress timelines.

Now that we are launching into our busy season here at Sinders, we’ve had a lot of questions on timelines. So that brings forth the tell-tale question:

“When SHOULD you be starting your journey on finding your wedding gown?”

Well, the truth is – it depends.

On average, wedding dresses can take between 6-9 months to order. This is of course paired with manufacturing, shipping, receiving, customization, accessorizing and general alterations. It can result in a recommended start date of up to 12 months before your desired wedding date.

Before you hit the panic button, we are going to help break down those factors for you. That way, you can be ready to hit the ground running when the time comes.

Here are the top 7 things to consider when crafting your wedding dress timeline:

1. What is your wedding vision?

Before we get into the nitty gritty of what goes into the creation of a garment, let us first start at the beginning.

It is no surprise that the minute you become engaged, an overwhelming number of questions start to pop into your head. Some of which you might not have considered when it comes to planning a wedding.

Location. Time of year. Guest list. Theme. Wedding party. Décor.

It can be a lot to think about.

BUT – these things are all integral pieces to solidifying your wedding vision and ultimately understanding what you may be looking for in a wedding dress.

You might have always envisioned yourself in a beautiful ballgown. Or a sweeping train. Heck maybe even satin ensemble.

Will this be what you may end up falling for?

Perhaps not.

But having an idea of your likes and dislikes are a great starting point.  Especially when knowing what type of timeline you will find yourself on when shopping for your dress. And even more so if this might include customizations.

2. What is the difference in dress designers?

A large reason that we provide such a wide timeframe when talking about timelines is due to the difference in designers we carry.

Simply put, no two designers are the same.

We don’t know which wedding dress that you are likely to say ‘yes’ to. So, it is extremely difficult for us to say exactly what your timeline should look like.

Rest assured though; each designer works diligently to ensure that your gown arrives nothing short of everything you imagined!

Beyond that, our talented team of stylists are here to help make your shopping experience seamless and extraordinary!

If you have your eye on a particular designer before starting your shopping journey, do not hesitate to contact us with any questions!

3. How many appointments are too many?

Far too often, we hear of brides having gone to dozens of stores, tried hundreds of wedding dresses and feel absolutely overwhelmed with the thought of having to choose. Or, brides so overpacked with appointment after appointment, that they don’t truly get the opportunity to live in the moment when they find the gown that beats them all!

We are by no means saying that going to a few different stores is a bad idea.

In fact, we suggest selecting even 2-3 of your favourite stores to really maximize your shopping experience. Go ahead – discover your style and explore your options!

Just do not overdo it!

We promise you after dozens of dresses and multiple appointments, it will start to become much more difficult to make a confident and informed decision. Plus, if you are someone who finds it difficult making daily decisions, this fact will only be magnified when trying on an abundance of gowns.

So, when shopping for your wedding dress trust the opinions of those around you. Your entourage, your stylist and most importantly – yourself. The joy and exuberance you feel when finally putting on ‘your dress’ should not be lost in the hustle and bustle of traffic.

If you know in your heart of hearts that you want to explore your options – do it!

In fact, consider making each of your selected stores a unique destination. Each store you visit will have its’ own unique atmosphere, selection, and ambiance. So let yourself enjoy them!

Do your research ahead of time. That way, you can go into each and every appointment prepared and know that you could very well walk out with your perfect dress!

Oh, and when you are ready to make your appointment with Sinders Bridal, let us be your final destination of course ;). 

4. Are there any external factors that could be impacting the industry?

You might be thinking, what the heck does this have to do with my shopping timeline?

The answer is quite a bit.

As we have seen over these past two years, our ecosystem is fragile. From mandated closures to capacity limits, and wedding postponements to shipping delays. We can never know what the future holds for our brides or the industry. So timelines become even more important.

If you have the time – consider working some wiggle room into your timeline. We promise you, the last thing you want to be when shopping for your dress is stressed out.

Not sure if your timeline will work? Give us a call. We can help you work through your timeline and make sure you are dressed and ready for your big day!

5. What goes into making the physical wedding gown?

This might seem implied, but give yourself time when shopping. Let the magic of your dress happen. Although it is completely possible to walk out of the store with a dress in your hand – more often than not, your journey is just beginning.

In fact – your dress can take 6-9 months to make its journey from your initial deposit to walking down the aisle.

From production and manufacturing to shipping and delivery. Your wedding dress takes months before arriving back at our boutique. From there, our dedicated quality control group will receive your gown, thoroughly checking each and every aspect of your gown. From seams to clasps and intricate beadwork. It is our job to be meticulous and ensure that your gown ready from top to bottom.

Once you’ve received your call and are able to come meet your dress – it is time to prepare for alterations. Depending on the amount of customizations you have gone with, alterations can take anywhere from 3-4 months to complete.

Add in shopping for accessories and some buffer room for yourself and we have quite a timeline!

Note: It felt wrong to not mention the incredible work that also goes into our custom wedding veils. Many of our veils at Sinders Bridal are hand-made with intricate beading and matching lacework that can take upwards of 5-6 months to complete. The last thing you want is to say yes to your dress and not give yourself enough time to find your perfect veil. Keep this in mind when creating your wedding timeline.  

6. What services do your chosen bridal boutiques offer?

Understanding what services are offered at your chosen bridal boutiques can have a large influence on your timeline.

Will you have the time needed to make the decision? Are you able to bring the number of guests you desire? Do they offer alterations and customizations?

The bottom line is every bridal boutique you visit will have the bread and butter of what you’re looking for (a wedding dress). Finding the right boutiques that have the offerings you are looking for can be the difference between weeks or months added to your timeline.

For the sake of an example, let’s say you are looking for a jaw-dropping train on your wedding dress.

Now, there is an excellent selection of wedding dresses on the market today that would be the perfect selection for your wedding day! Many options can be found both in-person or online. Each can be an incredible choice that will have little impact on your shopping timeline.

However, let’s say that having this train is non-negotiable.

If having a piece that’s your specific taste and style preferences is important, do not be surprised by a longer timeline. Finding that exact dress without having customization can be extremely difficult. You may find yourself at multiple appointments. With hundreds of gowns. All before realizing what you want may not exist on the market.

Enter customizations.

Customizations, although more time intensive, require skill and expertise of a dedicated team. A team who not only has familiarity with wedding dresses, but with your specific gown.

In this specific example, finding a bridal boutique that has a dedicated alterations team is important. A team experienced with the dresses can be the difference of dozens of headaches and one smooth and seamless shopping experience.  

Do your research. 

Choosing the correct stores for the experiences you want can ensure that your piece comes out as a perfect representation and reflection of who you are.

Did we mention at Sinders Bridal, you get exclusive access to Ottawa’s premiere seamstresses? 

7. Are you on a condensed timeline?

Okay, so we’ve given you what seems like a dozen reasons to give yourself as much time as possible when starting wedding dress shopping. You might be thinking, Oh crap, I do not have that much time – I will never find a dress!”.  

That is certainly not the case.

Although more often than not the dresses are ordered – that does not mean that you can’t find a dress on a tight timeline.

Maybe you chose to have a short engagement. Or something has accelerated your plans and suddenly your day is fast approaching.

Enter sample gowns.

Yes, you heard us correctly. You can buy sample gowns right off the floor and walk out of a bridal store with your dress in hand!

Okay, okay, okay.

The options when going this route might be a little more limited, but where there is a will, we will find a way! In fact, there are often hundreds of sample gowns on the floor at one time, so rest assured that your gown is out there.

Let’s get real.

What is most important is to give yourself time, and know in your heart what feels right to you. Because, we could go on and on when it comes to talking timelines.

The moral of the story is – the longer your timeline, the less stressful. In the end, it isn’t our wedding day.

But… maybe consider making us your last stop.

Have your ‘Say Yes’ moment with Sinders. 

We will be behind you every step of the way. To inform you, provide for you, cheer you on and help you thrive. From the moment you walk in the doors, to the final fitting before your big day. Because when you become a Sinders bride, you become family. Every step of your engagement!

So go out there and shine beautiful.

 

Until next time,

The Sinders Team

 

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Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

5 things to consider when shopping for your wedding dress at Sinders Bridal

If there was ONE thing we could say that appropriately describes our feelings over opening our doors for our brides looking for their wedding dress once again… it has to be relief!

There has been so much going on here at Sinders Bridal House since we last spoke! If you are a follower of our social channels (which we hope you are ), you will know that we are thrilled to welcome you back through our doors. We can’t wait to get you back on track finding your dream wedding dress! 

Whether you are recently engaged, in the middle of your planning or are getting an early start to your dream wedding we are here for it. And for you of course!

These past few months have been some of the most unpredictable and emotional moments for us all. So many of our brides have had to postpone their special days. Our hearts continue to be with all who have been impacted, but know we are hoping that nothing but clear skies lay ahead! 

However, one thing we have been able to learn from this roller coaster is this:

Love is not cancelled. 

So, can we take a quick moment to talk about how inspiring it has been to see so many of our brides in these romantic elopements and intimate micro-weddings?

Who said smaller weddings had to be any less than perfection?! 

Certainly not us.

Anyways, before we get too far ahead of ourselves on how much we love seeing our brides get married (SURPRISE we really really love it); we wanted to let you know how things at our bridal shop may have changed since introducing new COVID-19 friendly precautions. 

So here are 5 things to consider when returning to Sinders Bridal House for your wedding dress:

1. Do your wedding dress research

Congratulations! 

You’ve made it to the first step in your wedding planning journey and that is… research. Whether this is your favourite thing to do, or the dread of your existence, research is key in understanding how your vision might best come to life.  

Have you thought about what style of wedding dress you see yourself in on your big day? Is it a sexy figure-flattering mermaid silhouette, or perhaps that statement ballgown with a hint of drama? Either way, understanding these terms opens the communication with your stylist and will be a key element in making your dress appointment run smoothly.    

If you’re having trouble getting started, or simply haven’t had a chance to look just yet – do not fret! Our team of dedicated stylists have helped hundreds of past brides find their perfect dress and are confident you can join that list! 

A great first step is to send us an email or book your appointment online!

2. Ask questions

Okay, now let’s talk about questions for a second – because everybody has them! 

Are you unsure about what wedding dress style might suit you best? Have you seen a specific dress you like online and want to know if we carry something similar? Are you hoping to confirm timelines with us so that you can keep your perfect day on track? 

Cue the Sinders team. 

Our doors might not always be open, but our entire team at Sinders are trained, passionate and enthusiastic individuals that are here as your number one resource. Picture us as your ‘bridal besties’ if you may. We LOVE helping you bring your vision to life and can promise that our team has your best intentions in mind. Because let’s face it, we want your wedding day to flow as smooth as satin ;).

Whether it be in person, over the phone, in an email or simply through our DM’s, do not fear to lean on our team for help before coming in for your appointment. Oh and if you’re looking for inspiration, check out some of our previous blogs, like ‘Expert Wedding Dress Shopping Tips’.

                                Photo by Lauren McCormick Photography

3. Consider fewer visits to the shop

Now here is a relatively new ‘thing’ since adapting to new COVID-19 precautions at our bridal shop. Much like our recommended number of guests (which we will get to in a moment), you might consider limiting the number of appointments you make at our shop. And NO, it is not that we do not want you here with us… it’s quite the contrary. 

As our doors have unfortunately been closed for a large part of this year we have a growing list of brides that, like you, are looking for their wedding dress with us at Sinders. Unfortunately, this might require longer waiting times for those desired Saturday appointment times. So, making fewer visits to the bridal shop could get your dream wedding dress into your hands sooner!  

Don’t let that worry you as we still provide our same intimate and incredible service you’ve come to know from us. Plus, if you’ve followed me along this far you will know that the first two steps might very well prepare you to find ‘the gown’ on your first try! 

4. Trim your list when shopping for your wedding dress

Okay. We know this is a hard one… but with COVID-19 restrictions, our store capacity continues to be limited. That means to best serve each bride, we ask that guests attending with you be limited to a select few individuals. While this might not be the best news you’ve heard, we wanted to highlight a few positives that trimming your guest list might mean for your upcoming wedding dress appointment. 

By trimming your list of friends and family members attending your dress appointment with you, there will be fewer voices in the room with you. This will allow for your stylist to help you focus on the emotions that matter most… the brides! Plus, it also means less stress and confusion for you!

Ultimately, your wedding dress appointment should be about you guessed it… you. Now, we don’t want you to cut out everyone! We are still able to welcome your party virtually – and are happy to discuss how this will work with you before your appointment. 

We promise we will still offer the same white carpet experience to your entire party – whether it be in-person or virtually! 

5. Trust your bridal stylist

Finally, our last piece of advice is to trust your stylist

Many of the women here at Sinders have been with us for over a decade! They understand exactly how to find the perfect wedding dress for your big day! We can be your cheerleader, your confidant, or your bodyguard. But most importantly… we will be your fashionista behind you the entire way. 

Not only do we know the designers like the back of our hands, we work with these wedding dresses every day! We know which dresses will give you the best support, which will hug your curves, and which will make you SHINE. 

Your wedding dress should not only embody your vision but enhance your beauty, your confidence and your style. Letting YOU be the star on your wedding day. 

Phew, that’s it – simple right? 

Before we go, let us leave you with one more thought. 

Sinders is here to build confidence with a single piece of clothing – so we can all create a positive impact on our future. It’s what we do. It’s why we are here. Now more than ever, our team is here to help you feel good about yourself and your future day. 

So, if you have any questions regarding how your shopping experience might look different with us, contact us! Do not hesitate to call, email, or DM us – heck or give us a comment below!

Categories
Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

Top 10 tips for beautiful beach wedding dresses

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING BEACH WEDDING DRESSES FOR YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING

Destination weddings are a fun, relaxed alternative to traditional weddings. They combine the best of wedding celebrations and beach vacations, all with your most cherished loved ones. And like destination weddings, the choices for beach wedding dresses are more fun and laid back. Since you won’t be in a church, there are no rules with how much skin you can show. It’s also too hot on the beach to wear a formal wedding dress anyway.

While beach wedding dresses aren’t always traditional, they are still elegant. So choose to stay cool and comfortable on your big day in a beautiful beach wedding dress.

Here are the top 10 things to look for when choosing beach wedding dresses.

A COMFORTABLE FIT

The fit of a wedding dress is an important consideration, no matter where you’re getting married. But for beach weddings, you have to take the heat into consideration as well.

To enjoy your special day without feeling sticky in the heat, find a dress that fits comfortably. Consider looser fits that won’t stick to your skin.

Flattering styles that will be comfortable even in the heat and humidity include:

  • A-line fit and flares;
  • Above-the-knee flounce designs;
  • Loose tea-length pencil shapes; and,
  • Short sheathes.

LIGHTWEIGHT & BREATHABLE FABRIC

A comfortable beach wedding dress will also need flowy, breathable fabric. Traditional wedding dresses have heavier fabrics, such as polyester-silk or satin-silk. But beach wedding dressers will have looser fits and lightweight fabrics such as:

  • Chiffon;
  • Crêpe;
  • Cotton blends;
  • Organza; and,
  • Mesh or lace details.

MOISTURE-FRIENDLY FABRIC

There’s a good chance that your destination wedding will be in a hot, humid place by the ocean. So you have to take the high humidity into account when choosing fabrics for your wedding dress. The oceanfront humidity is not kind to some fabrics. Certain fabrics will result in a dress that becomes damaged, wrinkled, or flattened.

Comfortable, breathable fabrics that can handle moisture are ideal. And if you decide to take a stroll into the ocean for wedding photos, then you won’t cringe at the thought of ruining your beloved dress.

A SHORTER LENGTH

Shorter dresses are also ideal for wading in the ocean, walking in the sand, and feeling cooler in the heat. Full skirts and floor-length dresses are elegant. But they may impede on your fun in the sun, getting dirty or damaged in the sand and water. Shorter-length styles include streamlined, tea-length, and above-the-knee designs.

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TRAIN ALTERNATIVES

As with long skirts, trains will also face problems on the beach. Trains don’t allow for free-flowing movement and may get muddied on the beach. They also add weight to the dress, making them seem heavier in the heat and humidity. Even when bustled, the weight is still there. So opt for another accessory for your outfit that won’t get in the way. Consider a short veil, mesh or lace details, or other lightweight-fabric details.

BEACH-FRIENDLY ADD-ONS

Even a veil may be too much for a windy oceanfront. But there are accessories that will work well both with your dress and the beach environment. Maintain comfort and convenience throughout your big day with these beach-friendly add-ons:

  • Flower crowns;
  • Headbands;
  • Jewellery; and,
  • Lace gloves.

BARE SHOULDERS

In the tropical heat, you will want to expose as much skin as possible to cool down in the ocean breeze. Popular beach wedding dresses expose the shoulders and arms for added comfort. In the heat and humidity, the less fabric you have on, the more comfortable you’ll be.

Consider beach wedding dresses with the following styles to stay cool:

  • Halter;
  • Keyhole;
  • One shoulder;
  • Short-sleeves;
  • Strapless; and,
  • Spaghetti straps.

EASY TO TRANSPORT

When travelling to your destination, make sure your dress makes it on time and in pristine condition. Do not check it with your luggage at the airport. Either carry it on the plane with you, or arrange to ship it registered and expedited to your wedding destination.

Either way, you will want a lightweight dress that is easy to ship or carry. If you choose to ship your dress, you will end up saving on shipping costs if it’s lightweight. And if you choose to travel with your dress, you will want to carry it on the plane.

EASY TO STORE

After your wedding, you will may want to have your dress dry cleaned and packaged for proper storage. The cleaning and prep for storage is expensive for big dresses with delicate fabrics. But lightweight dresses with moisture-friendly materials will be easier to clean and store.

MAKES YOU FEEL CONFIDENT

As with a comfortable fit, how confident you feel in a dress is a priority when choosing wedding dresses. You will want a dress that makes you feel beautiful so that you’ll be happy to wear it throughout your wedding day.

Destination weddings are all about feeling good, relaxed, and happy. Choose a dress that will make you feel great so you can have fun in the sun without worries on your wedding day.

Download the Sinders Bridal Guide to Plan the Wedding of Your Dreams

Categories
Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

How to Choose a Second Wedding Dress for your Reception

TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR SECOND WEDDING DRESS SO YOU CAN HAVE YOUR DREAM GOWN FOR YOUR CEREMONY AND YOUR RECEPTION

Many brides dream of walking down the aisle wearing a big princess-style ball gown, but by the end of the evening, it can become extremely cumbersome and uncomfortable to move in, making it difficult to enjoy your wedding reception and dance the night away.

Or, maybe you love the idea of having both a ball gown and a sexy, mermaid dress and are struggling to choose just one. For either reason, more and more brides are choosing to purchase a second (or third or fourth) dress just for their wedding reception.

But while planning an outfit change will ensure you get the best of both worlds, finding not one, but two or more dream wedding dresses can be a bit of a challenge.

READ MORE: HOW TO SHOP FOR WEDDING DRESSES IN OTTAWA

HISTORY BEHIND THE TWO DRESS TREND

While nowadays, it seems like the majority of brides are opting for an outfit change during their wedding reception, the trend has been around for longer than you might think.

Going all the way back to the 1930s, it was common for brides to change towards the end of their wedding reception into a “Going Away Dress” for their grand exit, where they would be whisked off to their honeymoon.

This “Going Away” ensemble typically consisted of a bridal-inspired skirt and jacket.

Now fast forward to 2019, and the trend has slightly shifted, with many brides purchasing two or more vastly different gowns for both their wedding ceremony and reception.

REASONS TO BUY A SECOND WEDDING DRESS

So, you’ve already found your dream bridal gown that makes you feel your most beautiful. You might be wondering – why would you want to wear anything else on your most special day?

Here are some of the most common reasons why brides are ditching their ceremony gowns before the reception.

COMFORT

Just like you may want to change out of your high heels as the night wears on, you may find yourself uncomfortable during the reception if your dress is a large, ball gown silhouette with lots of heavy fabric and beading.

Or maybe you went with a slinkier silhouette with a corset back that looks beautiful, but is difficult to sit and move in.

READ MORE: 10 EXPERT TIPS FOR PLUS-SIZED WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING

DANCING

Even if you don’t find yourself uncomfortable in your ball gown by the end of the night, dancing can still be a challenge in a big poufy gown. While dancing and twirling the night away in a sea of tulle can sound like a dream, in actuality, having so much fabric can increase your risk of people – including your groom! – stepping on the hem of your gown and tripping while out on the dance floor.

WEATHER

Getting married outdoors in the summertime has lots of advantages, but unless the temperature starts to dip after your ceremony, wearing a heavy gown with many layers of fabric and beading can leave you feeling sweaty and uncomfortable throughout your reception. By switching to a lighter, airier gown, you will feel so much cooler and not run the risk of overheating.

DIFFICULTY CHOOSING JUST ONE STYLE

Ball gowns, and a-lines, and fit and flares, oh my! With so many options for bridal gowns these days, finding your dream dress can be overwhelming and make your head spin.

Further adding to the stress is the fact that many brides struggle to decide what they want to look like on their wedding day and whether they should go with a sexy or princessy look.

If you find yourself in this predicament, purchasing a more fitted, sexier gown for the reception will help ease any indecision you are experiencing.

MODESTY

If you are getting married in a church, there are often some modesty rules you have to follow. This means you will likely need to stay a bit more covered up during your ceremony by having your shoulders or arms covered and concealing cleavage.

But after your ceremony, you may want to let loose and show off your sexier side. In this case, having a second dress is a good compromise.

TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR RECEPTION DRESS

Now that you’ve established the fact that you’d like to purchase a second wedding dress for your reception, how do you choose which one?

Here are a few tips for finding your dream wedding dress….again.

READ MORE: WEDDING DRESS SILHOUETTES – FINDING WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

MAKE COMFORT A TOP PRIORITY

When picking your first gown, the one thing at the top of your mind is usually finding something that makes you feel absolutely beautiful, no matter how uncomfortable it may be.

So, when searching for dress #2, you should be aiming for something you feel comfortable AND beautiful in.

BUDGET FOR TWO DRESSES

Before you even start shopping for your first wedding dress, it’s important to decide early on whether or not you feel you will want a second dress for your reception to help determine your budget.

If you’ve been dreaming of huge ball gowns or a skin-tight, corseted fit and flare, you may want to search for a ceremony dress that leaves enough room in your budget for a second gown. You can also consider increasing your budget in order to afford both gowns, or find a budget-friendly reception gown that will allow you to afford your dream ceremony dress.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX AND HAVE FUN

Your wedding day is a once in a lifetime experience, so why play it safe?

If you’re a fun bride who likes taking fashion risks, your reception dress is the perfect opportunity to show off your personality.

Don’t confine yourself to the traditional long, white gown. Try playing around with some colour and go with a blush, pale blue, silver, gold, or lavender dress, or even something more daring like black or red.

READ MORE: SINDERS TIPS FOR CUSTOMIZING YOUR WEDDING DRESS

A short and sassy dress, a jumpsuit, or romper are also great options that are super trendy right now.

If you chose to remain modest for your church ceremony or to avoid offending any older family members, also don’t be afraid to unleash your sexier side for your reception. At the end of the day, your wedding is all about you and your new spouse. So, don’t hold back, and wear what makes you feel your most confident.

MAKE SURE YOU CAN DANCE IN IT

The highlight of any wedding reception is dancing, so if you know that you will be getting down and boogieing the night away, it’s important to have a dress that you can move in.

To make sure you actually enjoy your reception and don’t spend most of it sitting down and feeling uncomfortable, find a dress with fewer bells and whistles that will help you focus on having fun, rather than trying to maneuver in your gown.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO CHANGE

Now that you’ve found both dresses for your wedding, the next step is to determine when you will make your outfit change. There is no set rule for this, so the decision is completely up to you.

However, a good rule of thumb for when to change from your ceremony dress into your second dress is during the cocktail hour, after you’ve finished taking photos.

But if you’d prefer to have your first dance in your ceremony gown, changing immediately after that is a good time as well.

Whether you can’t decide between two or more completely different bridal looks or you just want to feel more comfortable during your reception, choosing more than one dress is a great option to ensure you are 100% satisfied with how you look and feel on your wedding day. And when you do decide to go shopping, refer back to these tips to help find your dream bridal gowns.