• Alan Ray Bridal
• Christopher’s Boutique of Circleville
• Columbus Lace Dry Cleaning
• David’s Bridal
• Dublin Cleaners
• Elegant Bride
• Girls in White Dresses
• Henri’s Cloud Nine
• La Jeune Mariee
• Lady M Limited
• Universe Bridal at Unusual Junction
• Wedding Gown Specialists
• Wendy’s Bridal

Anna Wuerth selected a fit-and-flare gown from Wendy’s Bridal for her marriage to Tony Belleau on Sept. 26, 2008. (Adam Lowe Photography)

Even the most successful, independent woman can find herself swooning over a lavish concoction of lace, organza and tulle when it comes time to outfit herself for the wedding. One visit to a Central Ohio bridal salon will confirm that today's brides can find whatever dress fits their dreams, from elegant, beaded ball gowns to simple, sleeveless A-lines. And good news for girlfriends: Bridesmaids no longer have to worry about walking down the aisle in Pepto-Bismol dresses with more flounces than Little Bo-Peep.

Material girl. Crepe satin, dupione silk, chiffon, taffeta, brocade—fashion has a vocabulary all its own, and it's one not all T-shirt and jeans women speak. Before you shop for the dress, consider visiting a fabric store to feel various fabrics and see how each works with your complexion.

Bridesmaids are people, too. No woman wants to spend a hundred dollars or more on a dress to decorate the back of her closet. But forget all the jokes about bridesmaids' dresses—many of today's gowns really can be worn again. Bridal salons now have lines of separates in complementary styles, so each bridesmaid can choose pieces that best suit her body shape.

Child's play. Weddings today often feature several flower girls. Their dresses traditionally are mini versions of the bride's gown, though they should always be age-appropriate—no 4-year-olds in strapless numbers. The smallest wedding-party members also often wear tiny tiaras or flowers in their hair.

Other fashion topics often covered in Columbus Bride:
• The latest styles and hottest trends
• Choosing a dress to fit your body shape
• When to begin the search
• Working with custom dress designers
• Average costs
• Veil and headpiece options
• Altering heirloom gowns
• Gloves, shoes and accessories
• Dressing the mothers of the bride and groom
• Preserving the gown

For complete, detailed information on bridal fashions, read the current issue of Columbus Bride, which includes interviews with Central Ohio fashion experts and photographs from real local weddings.

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