Fit for a Bride: Wedding Gown Shopping In Arlington and Alexandria

The most popular month to get engaged is December, and the most popular month to get married is September — that means there may be a ton of engaged women in Arlington shopping for wedding dresses and starting to plan their wedding right now.

Whether you're a bride, mother of the bride, or a — willingly or not — interested party, shopping for "The Dress" can be a little overwhelming.

The good news is you don't have to travel far — there are some great bridal stores in and around Arlington and some people believe smaller stores often offer better service and attention.

"You are on a first-name basis with most locally owned bridal shops after you walk in the door once," said independent bridal consultant Nikole Payne. "They become friends with their customers and count on that special relationship they build with their clients."

Payne says building these relationships is what makes shopping locally so special and keeps her customers coming back. "Chances are, the bride's bridesmaids, mom, sister or even a guest at the wedding will be their next bride or client. Locally owned bridal shops are greatly dependent on word of mouth in small communities," Payne said.

The wide selection and the quality of the dresses are added benefits of shopping locally.

"The customer will get better dress quality because the owner is personally vested in the business," Payne said. "In the bridal industry, the top designers and trendsetters are typically only sold to boutiques who are locally owned retailers."

In Arlington, Falls Church and Alexandria, here’s where you can find your perfect gown.

Arlington

Elim Boutique – 1501 Lee Highway. 703-312-9090

Falls Church

Rosalin’s Bridal Boutique – 706 S. Washington St. 703-532-0288

Alexandria

Katherine’s Bridal Boutique - 3104 Duke St. 703-370-8922

Elegance by Roya - 1311 King St. 703-838-9282

Ellie’s Bridal Boutique - 225 N. Washington St. 703-683-8697

Hannelore’s of Olde Town - 106 N. Lee St.  703-549-0387

Global Bridal Gallery - 623 S. Washington St. 703-739-2743

4 Everly After - 687 S. Washington St.  703-838-2006

Where did you buy your wedding gown? Where did you find your bridesmaid and groomsmen outfits? Do you have recommendations for florists and photographers? Please tell us in the comments.