Your wedding gown is more than just a dress—it symbolizes love, romance, and the beginning of a beautiful journey with your partner.
But did you know that many brides make common mistakes on their big day that can inadvertently damage their precious gowns?
Preserving your wedding dress is essential to safeguard its beauty and memories and ensure it speaks of your companionship forever.
From tears to stains, here are nine ways you might be unknowingly harming your wedding gown on your D-Day, along with tips on how to avoid them:
1. Not Eating or Drinking Responsibly
It’s natural to feel nervous or excited on your wedding day, but skipping meals or indulging in excessive food and drinks can lead to spills and stains on your gown.
Instead, eat and drink responsibly to avoid accidents and keep your dress pristine throughout the day.
Enjoy a light, balanced meal before the ceremony, and opt for clear liquids to stay hydrated without the risk of spills.
Consider using a straw for drinking to avoid accidentally brushing against your gown with a beverage in hand.
2. Ignoring Bathroom Breaks
Bathroom breaks are inevitable, but failing to plan for them can result in mishaps like torn seams or stained fabric.
Enlist the help of a bridesmaid or bridal assistant to assist you with bathroom breaks and ensure your gown remains unscathed.
Practice using the restroom in your gown before the big day to familiarize yourself with the process.
To minimize the risk of accidents, consider wearing a bridal robe or wrap that can easily be removed before using the restroom.
3. Walking on Rough Terrain
Whether you’re having an outdoor ceremony or taking photos in a scenic location, walking on rough terrain can damage the delicate fabric of your gown.
Opt for sturdy footwear or add a train bustle to prevent tripping and tearing.
If your venue features uneven terrain, consider laying down a temporary pathway or aisle runner to protect your gown’s hemline.
Take slow steps to avoid catching your gown on rocks, branches, or other obstacles.
4. Neglecting to Bustle Your Train
A long train adds drama and elegance to your wedding gown, but failing to bustle it up after the ceremony can result in damage from dragging on the ground.
Make sure to bustle your train correctly to protect it from tears and dirt.
Work with your bridal consultant or seamstress to choose the right type of bustle for your gown’s design and fabric.
Practice bustling and unbustling your train before the wedding day to ensure a smooth transition between the ceremony and reception.
5. Getting Too Close to Open Flames
Candles and open flames are popular wedding decor elements, but they can risk your gown.
Avoid getting too close to open flames to prevent accidental burns or scorch marks on your dress.
If candles are essential to your wedding decor, consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
Place candles in sturdy holders away from high-traffic areas to minimize the risk of accidental contact with your gown.
6. Allowing Guests to Step on Your Train
Your wedding gown reflects your personal style and deserves to be treated with care and respect.
Remind guests not to step on your train to prevent damage and ensure your gown stays picture-perfect throughout the day.
Designate a trusted bridesmaid or family member to help you manage your train during the reception, especially during moments like the first dance or cake cutting.
Consider bustling your train during the reception to minimize the risk of accidents on the dance floor.
7. Not Having a Plan for Inclement Weather
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to have a plan for inclement weather.
From sudden rain showers to gusty winds, adverse weather conditions can wreak havoc on your gown.
Consider investing in a waterproof garment bag or tent rental to protect your dress from the elements.
Monitor the weather forecast leading up to your wedding day and have a backup plan in case of rain or extreme temperatures.
If needed, work with your wedding planner or venue coordinator to secure indoor alternatives for outdoor ceremonies or receptions.
8. Skipping Precautions During Transportation
Transporting your gown from the bridal suite to the ceremony venue and reception requires careful planning to avoid wrinkles and damage.
Hang your gown on a sturdy hanger and cover it with a garment bag to protect it during transportation.
Choose a reliable transportation method with enough space to accommodate your gown without cramming or folding, preserving the wedding dress.
Avoid packing heavy or bulky items on top of your gown during transport to prevent crushing or wrinkling of delicate fabrics.
9. Failing to Schedule Professional Cleaning and Preservation
After the celebrations, your wedding gown will need proper cleaning and preservation to ensure it remains pristine for years to come.
Don’t make the mistake of neglecting to schedule professional cleaning and preservation services.
Research reputable gown preservation specialists and arrange to have your gown cleaned and preserved shortly after the wedding.
Choose a method to preserve wedding dresses that suit your gown’s fabric and embellishments, whether traditional dry cleaning or museum-quality preservation techniques.
Store your gown in a cool, dark, and dry environment to prevent yellowing, discoloration, or damage from insects or moisture.
Conclusion
Your wedding gown is a cherished keepsake that deserves to be treated with care and respect.
By being mindful of these nine common mistakes, you can ensure your gown remains as beautiful and flawless as the day you said “I do.”
So, protect your perfect dress and enjoy every moment of your special day with confidence and peace of mind!