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First of all, congratulations! You're engaged and on a high knowing that you're bound to get married to the love of your life soon.

With so many preparations going through your head -- the catering, the guests, etc. -- it can be daunting at times to know where to start.

And yes, the ring is important but the dress, that's what makes a bride feel amazing on her big day. And just like falling in love: it takes time.

When so much is ascribed to a piece of clothing, we called on the help of fashion designers Leo Almodal, Michael Leyva, Veluz Reyes, and Rei Escario to get their expert advice on what you should know before going wedding shopping.

• Do your homework in advance

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Haute couture designer Leo Almodal says it's important to do your research. Start by looking at dresses or go to bridal shops or couture shops where you could get fitted in a dress.

“Even in shopping malls, try on some dresses so you would know what silhouette or what fabric, or what type of dress fits you well --- especially if you're a full-figured woman. At the end of the day, you know your body well compared to the fashion designers.

You're going to fall in love with a dress, and that's when you'll know you have found it.

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Designer Michael Leyva says to always go with your gut feeling. “Well, I think if you see that at first sight, you'll have that feeling that this might be your gown. If you feel that it's your gown, it will show.”

• Get comfortable with your body

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“I'd like for them to be completely honest with themselves. Because they have to know their limitations,” says designer Veluz Reyes.

“They have to be self-aware with their body types and at the same time, they have to have a clear vision of their dream wedding. And they should be completely honest with the designer. Is it a representative of who they are? Is it in sync with the wedding they have in mind? So self-awareness is the most important.”

• Be completely open-minded

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Wedding gown designer Rei Escario suggests it's also important to consider your options. “There are many different types of cuts available in the market. So each bride should be aware of what neckline should flatter the most, what kind of silhouette would fit them, cause each body type is different, each bride is different.

• Be yourself

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Lastly, it's important to let your personality shine --- it's your day after all. “Everybody has their personality so I think we should incorporate it in the style and the cut so that they will shine on their wedding day. Not only the dress but the bride,” Rei says.

Additionally, Veluz says, “The date of the wedding isn't the time to pretend to be someone else because you are getting married to the person who knows you the most.”

Now that you've taken a gander through these expert bridal tips, not only will shopping for gown be your favorite planning to-do but the whole process will be one enjoyable excursion.

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IN PHOTOS: Marry Me at Marriott 2019 fashion show