Preparing for dress shopping

My file of potential wedding dresses is brimming with pages torn from magazines right now. This is a good thing, as my mom will be out here in about a week to go shopping for "the dress."

I realized the photos from magazines aren't readily available. So, I've grabbed photos of two of the must-try-on gowns to share with everyone.

So, first we have the Sottero-Midgley A-line dress. Originally I was really anti the colored sash thing. I have heard others complain about having to constantly re-tie it during the reception. Plus, I like the idea of being clad in all white. However, this is just too cute. It keeps growing on me. The sash is available in both red and black. I would pick one of those. Either way, I like the rouching and clean lines. Pretty, pretty.

Next, this gown from the Princess Collection by Demetrios, has a halter neckline -- without going into a deep v-neck (and showing a bit more cleavage than a wedding dress really should). I like several of the dresses from BRIDES by Demetrios and the designer's couture line. We may go to the boutique in Scottsdale. If you know anyone who has dealt with them, do give me the inside tip. I've heard mixed reviews.

A couple of the boutiques I plan on visiting with Mom require appointments, so that's on tap for this weekend. A girl I know from The Knot works at I Do! I Do! Bridal in Phoenix (one of the largest bridal stores in the Valley carrying designer gowns). She's offered to check out which dresses they all ready have in stock. The two pictured are on the list! So, hopefully, I'll have an idea of what I'm getting into with them.

If anyone knows of a good place I should visit, let me know. Same goes for if you've heard bad things about a store.