You want your wedding day to be perfect - and that includes your shoes! Wedding shoes have come a long way from the traditional white pump commonly seen at every wedding. For both formal and informal weddings, satin ballet slippers, sparkly sneakers and even white wedding boots are seen on the feet of brides-to-be. Brides are letting their individual style shine through, and making unique footwear choices that reflect their personality.

Ten percent of weddings are destination weddings, and the majority of these are beach weddings. Most brides opt for wedding flip flops or go barefoot as it's difficult to walk in sand wearing heels, and also because the informal setting makes flat sandals or thongs a fitting choice for the occasion. Wedding flip flops make a wonderful wedding party gift from the heart, and are often stamped with messages like "Just Married" or "Bridesmaid.". If you aren't having a beach wedding, you can still give your wedding party the footwear they will wear during your ceremony, or even cute slippers so they can get comfy at the reception. Pair it with a matching necklace or handbag for a unique and memorable gift.

When shopping for shoes, don't choose style over comfort! Even if you love the added height a white stiletto gives you, you might feel differently once you've been on your feet for your entire ceremony and reception. Too-high heels can also be a recipe for disaster for brides who aren't used to walking in them. You don't want to teeter during your wedding march or trip on the end of your dress during your first dance.

There are hundreds of lower wedding shoes that look fashionable - try a kitten heel pump or a strappy sandal with a chunkier heel.  Even with lower styles, make sure you break in your shoes before the big day. Walk around the house or wear them out for an afternoon to loosen the material. On the day of your wedding, bring an additional pair of comfortable shoes you've worn before to your reception - just in case. You don't want to be sidelined with blisters or preoccupied with your shoes pinching your toes during the party.

If you are unsuccessful in finding that perfect hue of eggshell or ivory, or you want to make a statement with hot pink pumps, dyeable wedding shoes can solve a color crisis as they can be dyed any shade you wish. Dyeable bridal shoes come in every style and height. If you are also dyeing your bridesmaids' shoes the same colour, make sure they are all dyed in one batch as colour can vary greatly between batches. Let the professional dyer know if the wedding is outdoors or indoors as colours change in different lighting. Beige and taupe look pinkish in sunlight, while gray and blue can appear purple.

Finally, don't break the bank. Many brides shell out a bundle on wedding shoes, but you don't have to spend a lot to find great styles. Genuine crystal-studded shoes may add a dazzling touch to your nuptials, but they come with a hefty price tag and will most likely be relegated to the back of your closet after your wedding day. Look for bridal shop sales or head online to find designer shoes for less, or major discounts on any style of wedding shoe.

Let your personal style influence the style of shoes you pick. Don't be afraid to skip conventional bridal shoes and let your style be the judge. It's your wedding, after all, and what's on your feet is important – whether it's a pair of sophisticated high heels or jeweled white flip flops!