Hey everyone! I’m starting a #WeddingWednesday series where I will be sharing all the details of my wedding planning experience with you guys over the next few months. It’s hard to believe we are just SIX months away from our big day!! 

In January, I took a trip to New York with my mom, Mimi and (soon-to-be) mother-in-law Kim. We had the best girl’s trip and made some awesome memories. The trip was short and sweet but I had enough time to visit some amazing bridal boutiques… and say YES to the dress at Kleinfeld!! I was so excited to share some of my dress shopping experience on Wedding Wire’s Instagram story. 

After arriving in NYC and checking into our hotel, we visited BHLDN inside Anthropologie on the Upper East Side. The whole store is SO dreamy. Their dresses definitely have more of a boho and whimsical vibe. The designers at BHLDN travel the world in search of emerging designers, superior craftsmanship, and exclusive styles. Their attention to detail and individuality was evident in every unique piece I tried on. This coat from Kitty was perfect for strolling around the city. After trying on several dresses, we headed over to Hudson Hotel for a drink. 

 

On our second day in the city, we woke up and headed to our second dress appointment at Mark Ingram. Mark Ingram is the perfect spot for sophisticated brides looking for top-of-the-line gowns. I was surprised to see the variety of gowns they offer. I tried on everything from classic and feminine Monique Lhuillier silhouettes to Israeli-inspired Inbal Dror gowns. The stylist who helped me was so knowledgable, helpful and attentive. I fell in love with this stunning blush Inbal Dror gown below. 

After our appointment, we headed to Chelsea Market for lunch. Just a short walk from the Hudson River in the Meatpacking District, Chelsea Market has become one of the greatest indoor food halls of the world. Known as a “neighborhood marketplace with a global perspective,” Chelsea Market is one of my favorite spots in NYC.

After lunch we headed to my final appointment at the renowned Kleinfeld. (Yes, the place where Say Yes to the Dress is filmed. No, I won’t be on the show!) It was truly the ultimate bridal experience. I had honestly never seen a full episode of SYTTD so I didn’t know what I was in for. There are beautiful gowns as far as the eye can see. The wonderful Shay helped me navigate through the dresses and made the whole experience SO much fun. 

After trying on about 10 different dresses, Shay brought me a few last options. The dress I ended up choosing was the final dress I tried on and I INSTANTLY fell in love. If I can offer one piece of advice to brides out there, it would be to keep an open mind. The dress I picked is completely different than what I originally had in mind, but I couldn’t be happier with my decision! I can’t wait to reveal it, but for now it’s a secret I have to keep. 😉 Cam hates surprises and the anticipation is driving him crazy!

After I said YES to the dress, we celebrated with drinks at our hotel. Later that night, we had the most incredible dinner at Beauty and Essex. I was so glad we were able to make last-minute reservations. Beauty & Essex has a speakeasy vibe with it’s exterior pawn shop facade. Once you make it past the pawn shop, you enter a modern and distinct establishment complete with crystal chandeliers and wraparound staircase.  The innovative menu offers options such as the the grilled cheese and tomato soup dumplings and a host of other well-crafted tapas.  

We spent our last day in the city exploring Central Park and catching up with friends. This experience was truly unforgettable and I’m so thankful that I was able to share it with some of the most important women in my life. Can’t wait to share more of my wedding planning journey with you all! Thanks for reading!