Where to start!

I’m finally engaged! And trying to plan a wedding for March-May 2022 in NJ/USA…since it’s pretty last minute, the date is largely dependent on the venue, which I will hope to figure out by the end of the month. I’m also trying to figure out where to start with a dress. I’ve looked online for months so I know what style I’d like to try and have a couple different stores/websites in mind. But with such a tight time frame, where do I start?! I’m worried a local boutique would be a waste of time since I need the dress in 4-6 months. I like a number of dresses at Davids Bridal and BHLDN, but for the same reasons, I’m worried about heading there first as well. There are a few sample only boutiques in my area, so I know I could just walk out with a dress, but I also know the available styles will be a lot more limited and the condition of the dresses could be questionable.

Last minute brides, what did you do?!