Your Wedding Dress Timeline: When to Start and What to Expect

Congratulations - you’re engaged, and it’s time to find the one. Choosing your wedding dress is one of the most exciting milestones of your wedding journey, but it can also feel overwhelming. With lead times, fittings, and alterations to think about, it’s not always easy to know when to begin.

At The Corner Atelier, our goal is to guide you every step of the way - from your very first bridal boutique appointment to those finishing touches - so the process feels joyful, not stressful.

This is your guide to wedding dress timelines, full of practical advice and options (whether you’re super organised or working to a tighter schedule).

When Should You Start Wedding Dress Shopping?

We usually recommend beginning your search around 12 months before your wedding. If you’re extra prepared, 12–18 months is perfect - it gives you all the time in the world to browse, order, and enjoy the process without rushing.

This stage should be fun and full of inspiration. Start a Pinterest board, save gowns that make your heart excited, and think about who you’d like to bring to your appointment. Most importantly? Come with an open mind. Trying different styles at your first wedding dress fitting often surprises brides, and it’s the best way to find a gown that truly feels like you.

Short on time? Don’t panic. Many designers offer rush orders (for an additional fee), and our pre-loved collection is available to take home the very same day.

Booking the Appointment & Saying Yes (9–12 Months Out)

Once you’re ready to move from browsing to trying, it’s time to book your bridal boutique appointment at The Corner Atelier, in Manchester. This is where the magic happens - exploring our curated collection of both pre-loved and made-to-order gowns, slip into beautiful pieces, and discovering which one feels right.

When you say yes to your dress at The Corner Atelier, here’s what happens:

• We’ll take your measurements.

• You’ll secure your gown with a 50% deposit.

• We’ll place the order directly with the designer.

It should feel like a celebration, not a transaction. From here, you can relax knowing your gown is in safe hands.

Designer Timelines (Lead Times You Should Know)

Most gowns take around 16–20 weeks to arrive from the designer, depending on who you choose:

• Kelly Lin – 16–18 weeks

• Miss Chloé – around 20 weeks

• Love and Liberty – around 16 weeks

Remember - rush options may be available, and pre-loved or sample gowns can come home with you straight away.

Styling While You Wait

While your dress is being made, it’s the perfect time to think about the details: shoes, veil, jewellery, and accessories. We stock beautiful pieces from designers like Rebecca Andrew Bridal, so you can complete your look in one place.

When Your Dress Arrives (2-3 Months Out)

Few moments feel as exciting as seeing your gown arrive at the boutique. You’ll be invited back to try it on and take it away for alterations.

Plan to schedule your first fitting with a seamstress soon after. Most brides need around 2–3 sessions over 2–3 months to ensure the perfect fit. We can recommend trusted local seamstresses across Manchester, though you’re welcome to choose your own.

Final Fitting & Pick-Up (Around 2 Weeks Out)

Generally, two weeks before your wedding, it’s time for your final fitting. By now, your gown should feel like a second skin - comfortable, flattering, and truly you. After this appointment, you’ll take your dress home, ready for the big day.

Your Timeline at a Glance

Stage	Timeframe	What to Expect
Inspiration & Research	12–18 months out	Save styles, book your first appointment
Say Yes to the Dress	9–12 months out	Measurements, deposit, order placed
Dress Arrives	2-3 months out	Try on gown, plan alterations
Alterations Begin	2-3 months out	2–3 fittings with seamstress
Final Fitting	~2 weeks out	Final tweaks, collect your dress

What If You’re Short on Time?

We’re very used to working on shorter timelines - it’s always possible. Options include:

• Choosing from our pre-loved gowns, ready to take home on the day.

• Placing a rush order (sometimes as quick as 6 weeks).

• Opting for a designer gown already in stock with shorter lead times.

Your Dress Journey, Made Simple

From the first sip of your welcome drink at your appointment, to carrying your gown home before the big day, your wedding dress journey should be as special as the dress itself.

Starting early gives you more choice and a calmer process - but even if time is tight, we’ll help you find a gown you love.

Book your appointment today and let The Corner Atelier guide you every step of the way.

We can't wait to meet you!