Allowing enough time to properly plan and coordinate all the details that need to be done prior to the big day (the wedding) is the smartest thing you can do for everyone. Leaving the selection of the wedding gown to the last minute is not a wise idea. If possible start shopping for gowns nine months before your wedding day allowing plenty of time to locate the perfect gown; deal with unforeseen events and possible last minute changes.
Today there are great selections of wedding gowns available on the net or locally in all sizes including plus size wedding gowns. The first priority no matter what size gown you wear is to figure out your budget. Realistically what is an affordable dollar amount that you want to spend or can afford for the dress?
Once the budget is identified then you need to determine what style of wedding dress appeals to you. Before you begin shopping it is a good idea to get a full length mirror set up and set out a couple of your favorite dress outfits. Try on and examine your favorites and you will probably notice that they are favorites because they highlight your best attributes; those qualities that make you look great are what you should be looking for in a gown.
If you find a dress with the style you just love and it fits a bit snug; buy it in one size larger so it can be tailored properly for your size. No matter what dress you finally decide on, plan to have it altered with a reputable tailor about three weeks before the wedding so that it fits as though it was designed just for you.
Dress designers have finally figured out that we do not all come in one size fits all; not that we ever did! There are the lucky few in the middle spectrum with the perfect figures and then there are the women that are painfully thin and the other end of the spectrum that are a little on the plump side. It is nice that you can go out and buy a plus size wedding gown to show off your curves or one designed to highlight your best features.
When you are ready to meet with the tailor be sure and bring the shoes, panties, slip and bra that you plan to wear with your wedding gown. The height of the shoes will effect the alterations on the length of the dress and underclothes often have built in padding that will need to be considered in altering the dress.