I finally found my dress! I had been shopping about 7 or 8 times in RI, PA, and MA. I had found a few dresses that were very close to what I was looking for, but there always seemed to be something that I wanted to change, from the fabric to the neckline. I was definitely not one of those brides that fell in love with the first dress I tried on.

I was looking for something pretty simple, but still elegant and beautiful of course. I knew I didn't want a dress that was covered in lace or beading. Accents of lace and beads I liked, but the really detailed dresses were not my style. I ended up trying on a variety of dresses in the beginning, which I definitely recommend. Some styles did surprise me, but in the end, the dress I purchased was pretty much exactly what I thought I wanted back in the beginning.

A lot of people told me I would know that I found "the one" when I tried it on. They were right :) My dress is Paloma Blanca, style 4008. Here is a picture from the website:

Since the dress at the shop was brand new and happened to be the size I would have ordered, I was able to buy the actual dress I tried on, which was in perfect condition, and saved on shipping costs. It also means I don't have to wait for the dress to arrive. It's already here and mine!

I plan to have the neckline altered into more of a sweetheart shape and it needs a few other minor alterations, but other than that, it is perfect. The color is diamond, which looks more like an ivory shade and the fabric is duchess silk which I love! The back of the dress has buttons down the chapel length train.

I am thinking about replacing the flower on the right hip with a brooch. This is one I purchased from etsy and I love it. I'm planning on trying to find earrings/accessories that will compliment the brooch.

Next step is finding some shoes so I can have my alterations done. This was definitely one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning so far!