...The hunt has ended. My sister invited our mom and me to join her for an appointment at Nitsa's, a regional bridal salon. I actually bought my own wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses there. I haven't been to Nitsa's in the three years since my own wedding but the consultants there are incredibly helpful and even remembered my name, despite the years that have passed.

My sister tried on dresses and found several that looked beautiful on her. Since she's planning a garden wedding, my sister decided she didn't want a dress with a lot of embellishments (beading, lace, etc.) It was exciting to watch her get closer and closer to the perfect gown.

In the meantime, we talked with a rep from Reem Acra, a luxury bridal and eveningwear line. She was in from New York for a trunk show at the store. Here's an insider tip: I asked whether Reem Acra had plans for a line of bridesmaid dresses, but unfortunately the answer right now was, "no."

Then, my sister walked out of the dressing room with the expression on her face: we have a winner! She was in an Ulla-Maija gown and her smile let us know she felt as beautiful as she looked.