Tips & Tricks: How To Wear A Strapless Wedding Dress
Intimate destination weddings are on the rise, whether a tropical beach or a romantic European city. And what’s not to love about a romantic wedding abroad with your nearest and dearest? A destination wedding means you can say “I do” in a beautiful location while having a mini vacation with your loved ones.
But planning for a destination wedding also means dealing with logistics, especially when it comes to shipping important items like your dress. It can be nerve-racking to think about shipping your wedding dress. What if it gets lost or damaged? What if it doesn’t arrive on time? Don’t let these fears stop you from having your dream destination wedding. With careful planning and following these tips, you can ensure your dress arrives safely for your big day.
Start Early
Don’t wait until the last minute to ship your dress. Give yourself plenty of time for any unexpected delays or mishaps. Aim to ship your dress at least three to four weeks before your wedding. The reason for this is that shipping companies may have different processing times, and you want to have a cushion in case something goes wrong.
Communicate With Your Destination Venue
Before shipping your dress, communicate with your destination wedding venue about their policies for receiving packages. Some venues may require advanced notice or have specific instructions for package delivery.
You should be on the same page with your venue to avoid any confusion or delays. You can also ask them for recommendations on reliable shipping companies, as they may have experience with shipping wedding items to their location. With clear communication and coordination, you can ensure a smooth delivery of your dress for your big day.
Choose Your Shipping Method Carefully
Shipping companies like FedEx, UPS, and DHL offer different shipping options, including express and ground shipping. While express shipping may seem like the best option for getting your dress to your destination quickly, it can also be expensive. Ground shipping may take longer, but it’s usually more cost-effective. Consider your budget and timeline when choosing a shipping method. Do you want to save money and risk a longer shipping time or pay more for quicker delivery?
Insure Your Package
It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to something as valuable as your wedding dress. Consider insuring your package for the full value of your dress in case of loss or damage during shipping. Most shipping companies offer insurance options, or you can purchase third-party insurance.
Check Customs Regulations
If you’re shipping your dress to an international destination, check the customs regulations of the country where you’re getting married. Some countries may have restrictions on importing certain items, and you don’t want to risk having your dress held at customs. You may need to provide additional documentation or pay customs fees to ensure a smooth delivery of your dress.
Import Fees and Duties
When shipping your dress internationally, keep in mind you may have to pay import fees and duties. These fees vary depending on the value of your dress and the destination country. Make sure to factor these additional costs into your budget when deciding on a shipping method.
Invest in Quality Packaging
You want your dress to arrive in the same condition as when you shipped it. Invest in quality packaging materials like acid-free tissue paper, a sturdy box, and a plastic bag to protect your dress. Most dresses will fit in an 18”x16”x9” or 30”x20”x8” box, but you should always measure your dress beforehand to ensure you have the right size. The tissue paper and plastic bag are for added protection against any bumps or jostling during transit.
Pack Your Dress Properly
When packing your dress, stuff the sleeves and bodice with tissue paper to maintain its shape. Place the dress in a plastic bag to protect it from potential water damage, and then wrap it in acid-free tissue paper. Carefully fold the dress and place it gently into the box, making sure there’s enough padding around it.
Label Your Package Clearly
Properly label your package with the shipping address, return address, and any special instructions for delivery. You may also want to include a note inside the package with your contact information. This will make it easier for shipping companies to contact you in case of any issues or delays with your package.
Track Your Package
Track your dress’s progress online once you ship it. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to stay informed about any potential delays or issues.
Consider Bringing Your Dress on the Plane
If you’re worried about shipping your dress, you can always bring it with you as carry-on luggage. Check with your airline beforehand to see if they have any restrictions or additional fees for transporting a wedding dress.
Have a Backup Plan
While you may have complete faith in your chosen shipping method, you should always have a backup plan just in case something goes wrong. Consider packing an emergency kit with essential items like a steamer, sewing kit, and extra accessories in case your dress needs some last-minute touches.
You should also prepare for the worst-case scenario and have a backup dress option in case your dress doesn’t arrive at all or arrives damaged. This can be a simple white dress or something borrowed from a friend or family member. Lost and damaged shipments are rare, but having an alternative dress option can provide peace of mind in case anything goes wrong.
Don’t let shipping logistics stress you out and take away from the joy of your special day. Use these tips on how to ship your dress to your destination wedding so your dress arrives safely and on time. With proper planning and preparation, you can have the destination wedding of your dreams without any worries about your dress.
If you’re still searching for the perfect gown for your destination wedding, look no further than Lillian West. Known for its unique and ethereal designs, Lillian West creates romantic dresses that are perfect for a destination celebration. With intricate laces and soft, flowing silhouettes, these gowns evoke a sense of effortless beauty, making them ideal for a dreamy, far-away wedding. Whether you envision a boho-chic look or a timeless, elegant style, Lillian West has a dress that will make your destination wedding truly unforgettable. Visit a retailer near you to try on our stunning designs and discover the gown of your dreams.
