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Question: I just got engaged on Thanksgiving and we are planning to get married in the summer of 2013 (no date chosen yet). I don't really know anything about wedding stuff, planning, etc so hopefully some of you can give me some good advice. I know it varies a lot, but what price range do wedding dresses run? Also, I've heard it's cheaper to go to David's Bridal than a local bridal salon; is this true? If so, have any of you shopped at David's and if so how was your experience?

As far as price range, I want either an a-line or more preferably a ball gown. I'm not looking for any other styles. Any idea what I might expect to pay? My parents are only paying for some of the wedding and I'm on my own to buy the dress so I need to know what I could budget for. Also, I've heard once you buy your dress it can take forever for it to come in, and even longer to get alterations done. That being said, when should I get my dress?

Wedding dress can run anywhere's from $99 David's Bridal have to thousands and thousands. It probably is cheaper to go to David's Bridal however I would suggest with all the experiences I have had with them in the past not to. I find there dress is reasonable price but I would rather pay a little more to have a better quality and better help that I received there. I did not buy my dress there but got the bridesmaids dresses there and it was a very big hassle. I did make an appointment and everything just didn't get the help I expected. In fact, my flower girl dress was picked out w/a sash the lady fitted her and everything knowing my color.

You can go to the bridal shop web sites and see what they have and if you like them. I would start shopping about 9-12 months prior to the wedding. Dresses can take up to 4 months to come in and then alterations have to be done. I would go to Maggiesottero.com and look at her dresses. I love her lines and ball gowns. They run $600-1500 usually and a little more for silk.

It is best if you can find some pictures to show your seamstress so she has an idea of what you want. She should be able to draw some sketches. Just be absolutely certain that your lines of communication are open so you get exactly what you want and not what the seamstress wants you to have. Remember, seamstresses are not magicians and often what you draw may not be able to be duplicated. So, it is wise to have an open mind.