Expert Q&A: Fatima Benson Shares Her Best Wedding Dress Shopping Advice

GWE
Jul 2
3 min read

Planning your wedding dress shopping experience can feel overwhelming—but with the right guidance and questions, it can become one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day. We sat down with Fatima Benson, founder of Alexandra’s Boutique in Fall River, MA, to learn her expert tips for brides beginning their search.

GWE: How much should a bride budget for her wedding dress?

Fatima: "Before you even step into a boutique, it’s crucial to have a clear dress budget. Wedding dresses range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Make sure the boutique you’re visiting carries gowns in your price range. Also, don’t forget to ask if the price includes alterations—those can add up. And factor in accessories like veils, belts, or jewelry. A realistic budget helps avoid stress and keeps expectations in check."

GWE: How can a bride find the most flattering dress for her body type?

Fatima: "Every bride deserves to feel confident. That starts with understanding what silhouettes flatter your shape. A-line and ball gowns work well on most body types, while mermaid styles enhance curves. We also guide brides based on their height and offer fit customizations, like adjusting straps or the waistline. Often, brides fall in love with something they never expected!"

GWE: What’s the ideal timeline for ordering and fitting a gown?

Fatima: "Give yourself time. Some dresses take six to nine months to arrive. Your first fitting should be about six to eight weeks before the wedding, with a final one closer to the date. Bring the right shoes, undergarments, and accessories—it makes every fitting more productive."

GWE: Are wedding dresses customizable?

Fatima: "Absolutely. Many gowns can be personalized—whether it’s adding sleeves, changing the neckline, adjusting the train, or even choosing a different color. These tweaks make the dress feel like it’s truly yours while maintaining the designer’s integrity."

GWE: What should brides know about return or cancellation policies?

Fatima: "Always ask. Some stores have strict no-return policies, and deposits may be non-refundable. Also, ask what happens if the dress arrives late. Having that information upfront brings peace of mind."

GWE: What’s typically included with a gown purchase?

Fatima: "Some boutiques offer perks like garment bags, accessory discounts, or preservation services. At Alexandra’s, we go above and beyond to provide value with each purchase—because this isn’t just a dress, it’s a keepsake."

GWE: How can a bride best prepare for her dress shopping appointment?

Fatima: "Bring inspiration—photos, Pinterest boards, anything that shows what you love. Limit your entourage to a few trusted voices, and wear nude, seamless undergarments to get the best idea of fit. Being prepared allows you to focus on enjoying the moment."

GWE: How does Alexandra’s Boutique support brides during their dress journey?

Fatima: "Our boutique offers private, personalized appointments with expert stylists who are there to guide and support you every step of the way. Whether you know exactly what you want or are starting from scratch, we’re here to help you say yes to a dress you’ll never forget."

About the Expert

Fatima Benson is the founder and co-owner of Alexandra’s Boutique, a premier bridal salon in Fall River, Massachusetts. With over 40 years of experience in bridal fashion, Fatima has helped thousands of brides find the dress of their dreams with confidence, compassion, and unmatched expertise. Alexandra's Boutique's four floors are covered with 10,000 beautiful gowns for all tastes and budgets.