You don't need to be a fashion expert, or know all of the terminology when you start looking for your perfect wedding dress. Much of what makes your wedding dress yours is how it makes you feel when you slip it on. But, it's easy to feel overwhelmed when you first walk into a bridal boutique. Which is why I've partnered up with Essense of Australia to give you some tips and tricks for when you start your search.

Shop for your wedding dress when you're feeling good about yourself.

When I'm out shopping (and this really goes for any time I'm trying clothes on) I know I won't like the outfit if I don't like how I look. Feeling good about yourself and feeling confident can make all the difference. So before you go out, take a little time to make your hair look nice and throw on some light makeup. If you already know the style you want your hair the day-of, try a similar style. That way, when you're trying on dresses you can imagine how the look will come together. I chose to wear a simple but beautiful fishtail braid to the side because that's how I wore it on our wedding day, and I love how the bohemian feel of the braid plays off the beautiful and intricate lace details from the Essense of Australia Spring 2016 Collection.

Try on something a little out of your comfort zone.

You might be dead-set on a trumpet gown, but you could end up walking away with a ballgown. The point is, I recommend being open to different styles... you might be pleasantly surprised. For our wedding, I thought I was sold on wearing a Cinderella gown, but ended up with an embellished ivory two-piece top and mermaid skirt. Bottom line, keep an open mind and listen to your heart.

Eliminate what you don't love.

If you have no idea what you want in your wedding dress, start by flipping through some magazines to find what you don't like first. You'd be surprised how much easier it is to say "I don't like this style" than it is to pinpoint what you do want. This will really help you narrow down your search and keep you from feeling overwhelmed by all of the different styles available. If you're unsure of something, make sure you try it on first before completely dismissing it. You don't know what you'll like and dislike until you see it on your body. And remember, things always look different on your body than they do on the hanger.

Don't go trendy.

When it comes to your wedding, you want to look and feel timeless. This isn't the time to try a new trend or get a little too outside the box. I recommend looking for something classic... romantic lace and something ethereal and light are always in style.

Bring your accessories.

I recommend bringing your shoes and any day-of accessories you've chosen along with you to your appointment. You'll be able to see how the dress falls with your heels, and will also save time with alterations (which, trust me, is just as much work as picking out your dress).  If you haven't chosen your wedding day shoes, bring a pair with the same or similar heel height that you plan on wearing on your wedding day. This will help you determine if you'll need any extra length added, especially if you're a tall girl like me.

While trying on gowns, I ended up falling in love with the endless lace train and sheer sleeves of this gown. The material was comfortable and easy to move around in, but I also felt elegant and timeless.

Shopping around Uptown Bridal & Boutique was so much fun, it made me want to have another wedding you guys! I also spotted some great bridesmaid dresses. I especially couldn't take my eyes off a modern gold metallic maxi dress by Sorella Vita, Essense of Australia's sister label.

If you're looking for your dream wedding gown, check out Essense of Australia. You can find a boutique near you that carries these beautiful gowns by using the store locator. I would love to hear from those of you who are currently planning your weddings, and I hope your search brings you the perfect dress of your dreams!