Smart Shopping

Personal shopping is probably the last thing you’ve thought about when it comes to planning your big day, which makes sense since it’s a celebration that is completely personal. If you haven’t already, you’ll probably bring along your mom and closest girlfriends to help you shop for your gown—not a stranger.

While that may be the case for the majority of your shopping, there are advantages to having a personal shopper or stylist help you out with some of the more challenging and time-consuming fashion aspects of your day.

Stephanie Wierzbicki, wardrobe stylist and owner of Vive La Mode fashion and shopping tours in Toronto, offers her styling advice to both men and women, helping clients navigate through the plethora of shops in the city, directing you to ones that match your style and budget. Plus you’ll get VIP service while you peruse the boutiques, ensuring your time is well spent.

You may think, “I love shopping. Why would I want someone to do it all for me?” While that may be the case for your everyday wardrobe, this is probably the first time you’ve shopped for bridal, meaning a personal shopper can save you tons of valuable time. Instead of running all over town, Wierzbicki can make an itinerary for you and pull items she thinks you’ll like based on a questionnaire she’s asked you to fill out, or if you’d prefer, she can shop with you. Getting one-on-one attention and professional advice from a neutral source (vs. your mother or future in-law) can be extremely valuable, especially if you’re looking to shop stress-free.

Wierzbicki brought me to the Little Black Dress Shop, a hidden gem in downtown Toronto that was a perfect fit, based on my questionnaire answers. I mentioned I wanted to find classic bridesmaid dresses that my girls can wear again—something I know many of you are searching for, too!

If your budget is a concern, the itinerary is a less-expensive option than if Wierzbicki shops with you. There’s also no pressure to buy right away. You can put items on hold and return at your leisure. Wierzbicki brings along her digital camera, too, in case you need a visual reminder.

Another fun option if you’re looking to include your bridesmaids is to thank your girls with the Girl’s Night Out Shopping Experience. Shop for a party outfit (like a bachelorette), then select between a complimentary eyebrow shaping or makeup lesson, and you’ll be ready for a night on the town!

While Wierzbicki’s services are only available in Toronto, there are other great personal shoppers and tours across Canada that offer bridal services including, Shopabout Tours in Vancouver (shopabout.ca), Sophie’s Rubies Shopping Tours in Edmonton (sophiesrubies.com), and Style Exclusive in Montreal (styleexclusive.com).

For more information on Vive La Mode’s fashion and shopping tours visit vivelamodeto.com.