Any Wedding Dress Experts?

Good afternoon, everyone! I'm looking for a few sewing experts that have some experience in dressmaking. My boyfriend and I, who have been in a Godly relationship for quite some time now, have started making plans for our future. As he will be graduating in December and I will next Spring, we are planning to announce our engagement in December and will hopefully be married next summer. My dad is aware of our plans, and knows that my boyfriend will be asking for permission this winter (He's already told me the answer will be yes, but we want to do things properly).

We're keeping things on the down-low for now, but for now I want to get a head start on my wedding dress, as that may take a long time and I'd rather have it ready in advance. It saves time, money, and I can make it the style I'd prefer. But I'm hoping to find some people willing to give me pointers on it. The main body is completed, but I have a picture of it before I sewed the skirt onto the bodice.




I plan on adding floral lace to the belt, and maybe some beads to the skirt. But like I said, I'd certainly appreciate input. Thanks and God bless!

 

Unfortunately where I'm at the only wedding dress shops are for those hundred dollar dresses at David's Bridal and the like. And you can never guarantee the styles will be anything you like. That and costs for alterations, ets…

My materials all cost under $75, which I hear is pretty good for a dress. And I don't need to do alterations since it's already made to fit me.