Over the past 14 years I've heard many myths, tails and half truths. Every once in a while I hear one that brings tears from laughter.

Just the other day a customer commented that a bridal store told her, "She needed to get her bridesmaid dresses ordered now for her wedding next summer because all the factories in China were closing for 3 months due to the Olympics".

Bust - Why would these factories lose all that money for the Olympics?

And the list goes on...

Myth - You should only wear white if you are pure.

Bust - Choosing not to wear white only means that ivory or diamond white looks better with you skin tone.

Myth - You should wear long sleeved turtle neck bridal gowns after Halloween.

Bust - First of all, good luck finding a dress like that and second, gloves and shawls are much more convenient.

Myth - You should order dresses at least 18 months before your wedding.

Bust - On average 6 months is plenty of time depending on the manufacturer. I recommend 6 months to a year for peace of mind.

Myth - You should order your dress one size bigger than you measure.

Bust - Absolutely not! You'll have an alteration nightmare.

Myth - If you're expecting a baby you should order a dress size to fit the belly.

Bust - Again not only are you looking at an alteration nightmare, who knows how big the belly will be? Order the size relative to your bust measurement at the time of ordering. If it's early in your pregnancy, order one size bigger than your bust. Either way, order fabric, have panels re-cut and/or empire the waist and let out the seams.

Myth - The style of bridesmaid dress should match the bridal gown.

Bust - Only if you want them to match. You can drive yourself crazy trying to match everything. Choose a dress style that compliments the bridal gown as well as the sizes and shapes of your wedding party.

Myth - The mother of the groom should wear beige and keep quiet.

Bust - Beige does not look good on everyone and it's much more polite to graciously listen. The color of either mother's dress should complement the primary color chosen for the wedding.

Myth - Etiquette is imperative in planning a wedding.

Bust - I believe if you're concerned with planning an etiquette wedding you should do it 100%. In most cases, if you're going to do it right, etiquette usually requires a substantial budget. My thoughts are, "If it's legal, moral and fits in your budget, go for it."

What can I say? I guess there's always going to be something one wonders about.

All said and done it's all about common sense. If it doesn't sound right it probably isn't right. Always ask questions!

And last but not least, plan the wedding of "your" dreams! If it's not hurtful or offensive own it, personalize it, and create the day "you" will always treasure. Make decisions mindful of the future, make decisions today that you know you can live with tomorrow.