Shop Local. Because chain stores often carry multiples of one dress, many other ladies may be wearing the same style dress as you. Michael Paul's utilizes a dress registry, which allows us to document the style and color of the dress you purchase for your event.

Shop on a weekday. Our boutique is open on weekdays and Saturday; however, for the best selection and one-on-one service, we advise you to shop on a weekday when clientele is not at its peak capacity.

Be prepared to purchase. As aforementioned, we pride ourselves on offering an inventory stocked with one-of-a-kind selections. When there is only one of the dress you could potentially fall in love with available, it could likely be sold before you return to purchase.

Shop in small groups. Having a second or even third opinion when you fall in love with more than one dress can be helpful. It's also fun to bring along family members or friends! Though fun, sometimes shopping in large groups can become overwhelming. Limiting your "shopping squad" to one or two members that you trust can enhance your shopping experience.

Stick to your budget. This may be one of the most important tips we can offer. If you try on dresses that exceed the limits of your budget, you take the risk of falling in love with a gown that you may not be able to afford. We never like to see our clients become disappointed.

Do your research. Before starting your shopping experience, research the price range for the style of dress you wish to buy. Whether it is a sparkly sequin, simple and elegant, or lovely lace gown, know what the average cost is to avoid making a purchase that is either overpriced or too good to be true. We have served countless women who have experienced "Special Sale Fails" – they purchased their "dream" gown online for $50 because they thought they were getting a good deal. Their bargain purchase quickly turned into a costly headache because the money they spent resulted in a dress disaster and a scramble to find an alternative.

Introduce your inspiration. If you do have a style or design in mind that you feel is a MUST to try on, bring several inspirational pictures with you. Keep in mind that though the boutique may not have that exact dress, presenting the stylists with examples provides them with specific ideas of what you have in mind and enables them to find dresses as similar as possible.

Be open-minded. Even if you have preconceived ideas about the style of dress that is perfect for you, it is important to keep an open mind. This ensures that you will not miss out on finding a color, fit, or design that better suits you. The stylists at Michael Paul's have experience working with a diverse clientele – ladies of all skin tones, heights, and body types – and can often dress you in something perfect that you never would have considered.

Go with your gut. You'll know you're ready to "say yes to the dress" — even if it's one of the first looks you try on. Don't second-guess yourself! If it fits well, is the color you like, and fits your budget, hold on to it, browse the selection at Michael Paul's one more time, and then go for it. Chances are that's the dress that is perfect for you!

Bust a move. If you love to dance, make sure the dress allows you to do so. (Yes, it is okay to shake your tailfeather in our boutique!) If you need to move and groove in your dress, you'll need a full skirt or a flowy Empire fit; if you're in a skintight mermaid, you can put on your boogie shoes, but you won't be able to boogie very far on the dance floor!

Bring appropriate undergarments/Ideal shoes. Because our seamstress may be at the boutique, bringing the undergarments or shoes you would likely wear with any dress that you purchase provides you with an opportunity to have it altered while you are already here. This will also give you a more accurate idea of how your dress will look on your special night.

Choose the perfect dress for YOU! At the end of the day, it is YOUR time to shine when you attend your special event. You will be the one wearing the dress, so let your style and personality radiate! Choosing the dress that YOU love ensures you will feel your best self when wearing it.