Vera Wang
A single designer is hardly right for every bride, but top-notch service, from first fitting to final alteration, is on every betrothed's wish list. This couture retailer stocks gowns that are dreamy, feminine, and exactly what we want for the big day. With more styles in-house than online and more-than-accomodating consultants, the hardest part will be choosing among satin, tulle, and silk. 73 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, verawangboston.com.
Flair
You don't want your girls in some garish getup out of 27 Dresses. Thankfully, a trip here makes finding the right dresses simple, owing to a tight selection of gorgeous (and, happily, understated) frocks from the likes of Coren Moore, Jenny Yoo, and Lynn Lugo. There are tons of colors, fabrics, and styles, and the service is both professional and patient. 10 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, flairbridesmaid.com.
L'Elite
Whether you're wearing a ball gown or a sheath on your big day, you'll find all the right accoutrements at L'élite, which stocks veils, headpieces, jewelry, belts and sashes, and heels by Badgley Mischka, Malis-Henderson, and Oscar de la Renta. In-store designers work with brides to create customized veils, and a sparkling array of crystal necklaces, pearl hairpins, and delicately feathered hair combs make mixing and matching a cinch. 121-123 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, lelite.com.
Lumiere
Pike traffic is a proven romance killer. Which is why it's a good thing Newton has its own spot to sip, sup, and swoon. The dining room's billowy fabric sets the tone for a special evening, while the dishes from chef Michael Leviton—juicy Crystal Valley chicken; delicate Rhode Island striped bass with preserved lemon and mint—romance your palate. 1293 Washington St., West Newton, MA 2465, lumiererestaurant.com.
The Market Restaurant
Photograph by Jessica Scranton Chez Panisse alumni Amelia O'Reilly and Nico Monday (Alice Waters's godson) opened this summer-only gem in a former fish market last year. And boy, are we glad: The service is sophisticated, the wine list is solid, and the elegant dishes, such as house-made ravioli stuffed with ricotta and layered with spring peas and mint—or whatever happens to be on the blackboard menu that day—are simply refreshing. 33 River Rd., Gloucester, MA 1930, themarketrestaurant.com.
Cohasset Jewelers
When owner Mark Cirone's wife was battling cancer, he created a "Labor of Love" pin, which raised more than $60,000 for the couple's local hospital. And if that doesn't make you want to shop at his store, your heart is harder than diamonds. Of course, an eye-popping selection of gems and watches helps, and Cohasset has them in spades. 790A Chief Justice Cushing Hwy., Cohasset, MA 2025, cohassetjewelers.com.
Straight Wharf Restaurant
The Straight Wharf remains one of Nantucket's toughest reservations. Perhaps guests know that the celebrity contingent (regulars include Brian Williams) might be on hand. But we're guessing it has more to do with the food—standouts like halibut chowder sprinkled with house-made bacon, and a clam bake featuring lobster and chorizo over corn and littlenecks. 6 Harbor Sq., Nantucket, MA 2554, straightwharfrestaurant.com.
La Residencia Spa
You could go to one of those fancy spas with the stark furniture and the green apples stacked perfectly so. But when you're in need of coddling, a place that's more welcoming than antiseptic is refreshing. La Residencia, located in a renovated two-story house with shabby-chic décor, has a cozy vibe. And a day there feels less like a clinic visit and more like a day with girlfriends—girlfriends who wax, extract, and massage, that is. 336 Elliot St., Newton Upper Falls, MA 2464, laresidenciaspa.com.
Abigail's Children's Boutique
Can't stomach another trip to Gymboree? This sibling-owned store will outfit your little ones in classic style from the time they're born through their preteens. You'll find an excellent array of formalwear, along with well-priced everyday gear and adorable accessories. No kiddie high heels, though — sorry, Suri. 93 Central St., Wellesley, MA 2482, abigails.com.
Harbor Hotel Provincetown
Shady motor inns might be quintessential Cape Cod, but we don't have to like 'em. So we're thrilled to see the old Cape Inn reborn as the Harbor Hotel, with a mod new look and superb amenities. Spend all day dipping your toes in the pool, then wiggle them in the sand while sitting by the fire pit. 698 Commercial St., Provincetown, MA 2657, harborhotelptown.com.
Hob Knob
Set back from the hubbub of downtown Edgartown, this eco-friendly, 17-room manse is quiet, unpretentious, and posh. (JFK himself once stayed here after an exhausting regatta.) Eat your made-to-order breakfast, then ride one of the cruiser bikes to the beach or to the island's farm institute to gather fresh eggs. And after that? Just linger in the Garden Room till it's time for cookies and tea. 128 Main St., Edgartown, MA 2539, hobknob.com.
The Beachcomber
Whoever said you can't please all the people all the time clearly hasn't been to the Beachcomber. Awesome views and beach access? Check. Long list of cocktails and heavy-pouring bartenders? Got 'em. Live music? Yup. As far as we can tell, the only thing missing is a cot in the corner — so we never have to leave. 1120 Cahoon Hollow Rd., Wellfleet, MA 2667, thebeachcomber.com.
Ana Hernandez Bridal Salon
Ana Hernandez understands women who dream about The Dress. Princess-worthy ball gowns, simple sheaths, lace pantsuits…her line of custom options has something to bewitch almost any bride. And she lets you be as much of a bridezilla as you please, adding sleeves if you want to keep your triceps under wraps, say, or swapping out fabrics if you decide, a few fittings in, that you really do look more fetching in ivory than white. 165 Newbury St., Boston, MA anahernandezbridal.com.
Dress
Blessed with great taste and strong buying instincts, co-owners Martha Hilfinger and Jane Schlueter have stocked their airy 900-square-foot Back Bay boutique with work-to-play separates and delicious dresses from modern favorites (3.1 Phillip Lim, Vena Cava, Vanessa Bruno) and exclusive up-and-comers (Lyell, Lofli denim). The shopping experience is a joy; if you've left your best friend at home, one of the chatty girls here will be happy to dish out reliable opinions on her behalf. 221 Newbury St., Boston, MA dressboston.com.
Barneys New York
You wonder how some guys look so damn sharp all the time? We're betting it's the Barneys men's department. All the key pieces are in place here: suits, shirts, ties, and accents from heavy hitters like Etro, Zegna, and Isaia, plus a sales staff of dapper gents eager to lend a hand in putting it together. You'll emerge looking like your old self, only much, much sharper. Copley Place, Boston, MA barneys.com.