Finding the Perfect First Communion Dress in Canada

I am relatively new to the First Communion celebration. I didn't get to participate in the Catholic sacraments as a child, but I have gotten the amazing opportunity to dress hundreds of girls for the First Communion, Reconciliation, Eucharist or Baptism. Here is what I have learned: 

What I LOVE about all these religious ceremonies is the time taken to celebrate God in our lives and to recognize the important part that God takes in our personal experience. What I also love is seeing the kids celebrated in the community. It is a very special time and one that she will remember as an adult. She might not remember what she wears or the details of the day, but she will remember how she feels. 

1. The most important thing to remember when dressing kids is that they are kids, so let them be comfortable. Dresses have come a long way and fashion should NOT be more important then comfort for our little ones. Do a comfort test, is she itchy anywhere, is she able to move around. The spin test is just a important as it is fun - how does the fabric and dress hang, is it falling anywhere or hanging wrong? Try on a few options and keep an open mind to styles. 

2. If a girl loves a dress she will let you know, take the time if possible to find something that she really likes. As a mom I know that my daughter will let me know what she like and has very strong ideas about what she wants to wear. As a Mom, I also have opinions and ideas of what I think would work best. Very rarely do these ideas come together perfectly. There are times when I let my daughter pick and there are times when I get the final say (e.g. a Bride choosing a flower girl dress). What I like about the First Communion is that it is really about the girl, so try to find a dress that she likes and is in budget. 

3. What are the rules? This is a question I always get for religious ceremonies. It obviously depends on the occasions, where First Communion is the most formal event, Reconciliation is typically a lot more flexible. What I always recommend is speaking with the church and other parents to see what people are planning. When picking a First Communion dress go with white or an ivory, it is one rule that I haven't seen change. Some traditional ceremonies will require a full length skirt and covered shoulders, but most just require a white dress. This is also a great time to speak to grandparents and other elders on their thoughts, you don't have to follow their advice, but they will appreciate being included and the time you took to bring them into the celebration. 

4. If possible, find a way to give it a personal touch. Are you able to incorporate a part of your wedding dress or your veil. It is surprisingly easy to take some fabric and make a veil or sash. By adding something that has special meaning to your family not only gives a sentimental touch, it also provides a unique look and will becomes a special memory for your child. It doesn't have to be something old, a new tradition can become just as important. Just get creative, maybe even a piece of jewelry that you already own can have great importance to your daughter. 

I don't love the stress that can come with these events: finding everything last minute and the costs involved. So my best piece of advice is start looking early, have fun with it and don't feel the need to spend over your budget. There is a beautiful dress out there at any budget, just give yourself the time to find it. If you want to go over the top and love the fashion and abundance of it all, then do that. Just decide your priorities and spend where you get the most enjoyment. The money you can save on a dress can be spend on a fun lunch after or a special necklace or gift for the day.

To shop our current First Communion Dresses please click here

Model is wearing the Vivianna Ball Gown in White