Bride-to-be Blogger Jennifer: Gown-Shopping Anxiety


The success or failure of all of the big (and come to think of it, small) occasions in a woman’s life revolves around the proper choice of clothing. Those prom photos that will one day haunt all of us — finding the dress was the most important part. The first day of school — elementary through college — was a chance to make a statement about who we were on first appearance. I still remember the pink-and-white striped dress that I wore for picture day in preschool: Another girl wore the same dress in blue and my teacher put us smack dab in the middle of the class photo next to one another. If I can carry that much thought around for 24 years about that dress, just imagine for how long I could rethink my choice in wedding dress.

I am secretly — well, not so secretly, actually — terrified to try on dresses. I don’t think it’s so much about styles or choosing a dress so much, as that I want time to get to the point where I’ll be happy with what is looking back in the mirror. White and cream are not forgiving or flattering shades and I’m just scared of being disappointed.

Like many brides-to-be, I am counting down the days excitedly — but right now, I’m more fiercely counting calories and minutes on the treadmill, just trying to get to that dress-ready stage quickly. As someone who has been in an up-and-down weight battle for most of her adult life, I can tell you this is the best motivation to not only lose weight, but to lead a healthier life. Making it even easier, Anthony is along for the ride. Hey, he wants to look his best in his tux, too!

What were your hesitations about wedding dress shopping? What advice do you have for other brides-to-be looking to shed a few pounds before the Big Day?

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