As a plus sized woman, I dreaded dress shopping. I started by looking on-line---my version of testing the water. I made a few calls and was horribly disappointed. I put it off until June, knowing I needed a gown for April of 2012. I went to DB first, just so I'd be properly prepared. DB was horrible. I went because I was told they'd have my size in stock, to try on. That was a joke. I had a woman who carried dresses into a fitting room and that was about it. I was forced to put on dresses that were clamped to my bra, (by my friend, NOT the 'consultant' who just stood back and watched...) with the back wide open....in a public and very busy fitting room. I was genuinely ready to call the wedding off right then and there.
As all women do, I have my insecurities.....but with recent health issues and horrible weight gain, mine were particularly bad. I dreaded the idea of having to imagine what a dress could look like ON me because most stores carried up to a size 16, some 18. Sadly, I was a 16 before...and am now closer to a 22. I cried every time I even thought about dress shopping.
I posted here to get suggestions---out of complete and utter desperation---and someone recommended Botticelli in North Providence, RI. And then.....I found Jan. The shop is unassuming. In fact, I saw few wedding dresses. She is barely a plus size, but nonetheless, clearly knows my struggle and did everything humanly possible to make my experience fantastic.
I tried on 12-15 dresses, took pictures in all of them, and went home...not sure I'd find the perfect dress, but confident I found the perfect person to help me find my dress. As someone who has spent a lifetime trying on the only 2 Easter dresses in my size and had to choose one, I was totally overwhelmed. Every dress fit. Every dress could work. But, I knew I didn't want a dress that 'worked'. I wanted the one that was 'mine'! A few days later, she e-mailed me pictures of a dress that was out for repair when I visited and suggested I try it on. I waited until now because I wanted to see the new styles for spring....
I went back last night. I fell in love with that dress and bought it.
This isn't your typical 'walk around the salon and choose your dress' kind of place. It's in a strip mall. It looks like a clothing store. Don't let any of that fool you----Jan is an amazing professional who listens to what you want and finds something appropriate for your taste, size, and even budget. I cannot begin to tell you all the relief I have that I can now enjoy my day. 6 months....and I can't wait for my dress to come in!!! To that woman (or women) who suggested Botticelli, you have made this a fantastic experience. I really can't thank you enough. Her website does not do her justice, but I'm including it in the event that someone might be interested in paying her a visit. This saved me...in OH so many ways. NOW I can start looking forward to my wedding.....Thank you!!!