Don't feel guilty for wanting your own wedding gown

These days, very few brides wear an heirloom gown passed down from their mother or grandmother. Of course, we all feel obligated to put it on when mom pulls out her dusty old frock and insists you just give it a try. For the lucky ones, they are nowhere near the same size as mom so they have an easy out. The few that actually fit it like a glove have a stickier situation if they really don’t like the gown.

Best thing to do is sit down with mom and show her some photos of the styles you really had your heart set on and ask her to come gown shopping with you. Reassure her that her gown is beautiful and though you are honored she wants you to wear it, you have been dreaming of your own special gown. Maybe there is a way you can incorporate a part of her gown into your own if she’s willing to let it be deconstructed. Or you may ask if she has a veil you could wear instead. Possibly she has a piece of jewelry you have always admired and she would let you borrow it for your special day. If you find a way to include something of hers it will soften the blow of not wearing her gown.

As much as you love your mom, there’s no reason to feel guilty about wanting your own wedding gown, but if you love her dress…go for it!