Disabled bride

Congratulations on your engagement!

Don't be anxious about trying on dresses - don't forget, lots of other women in the same situation have also got married, so it's not as if you are doing something totally unheard of!

I would suggest searching online for dress shops in your area and then try calling them to explain your situation - you'll be able to tell a lot by the way they respond and can then make sure you don't waste time visiting shops that aren't suitable for you or where the staff are not understanding.

I don't know if you are part of any support groups or chat groups for wheelchair users, but if you are, then it would also be worthwhile asking on there - you may well hear back from people who have been shopping for wedding dresses/formal gowns and can advise you on good places to try.
And you can totally have the big white wedding dress look if that's what you want - not every style will work, but that's the same for everyone. Your perfect dress is out there - good luck with finding it x

Hi Emily,

I totally understand your concerns

If you would prefer trying on dresses in your own home (perhaps with a group of friends and/or family with you) my online shop Sheque has loads of dresses you may like. All dresses are delivered to you.

If you can't find what you want on there let me know what style of dress you'd like and I'll work with you to try and find one that's perfect.

Kate

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! It's understandable that you may feel anxious about dress shopping given your circumstances. Remember, there are options available to accommodate your needs. Reach out to bridal stores in advance and explain your situation. They may be able to offer suggestions or make arrangements for a more comfortable experience. Additionally, consider looking into adaptive clothing or custom-made dresses that can be tailored to your specific requirements. Remember, this is your special day, and there are ways to make it memorable and beautiful regardless of any physical limitations. Stay positive and focus on the joy of marrying your partner.

Hi

I'm also disabled, and though I'm an ambulatory wheelchair user, I found a few bridal shops that were really accommodating and understanding. My dressmaker who is doing alterations has been super lovely and has done things like doing fittings on the ground floor, ensuring there's a parking space right outside.

I got in touch with places in advance to explain my needs - like not being able to stand without assistance. I will say that some shops were better equipped than others, and many shops in my area didn't have ramp access - I would definitely check with them over the phone, and make sure you've got one or two people with you who know how to help you. I had to remind myself that even able-bodied brides need assistance to get in and out of dresses, so the shop staff are used to helping people put them on.

I would also say what I ended up with was TOTALLY different from what I thought I would wear if I ever got married, and to go into the process with being willing to try on a number of different styles - sometimes what you imagine liking just doesn't look as good as something you never thought would look good on you.