Advice on wedding dresses: do I go for it and make my o Sewing Machines Parts and Sales in Los Angeles

Happy boxing day from the UK!

So, I’m thinking about making my dress myself, and I thought here would be a good place to ask for advice.

I’ve visited a couple of dress shops and tried on different styles to see what I like/what suits me, and I’ve decided that I’m looking for something like this one – but without so much extra lace/flowery fabric over the bodice, and less of a train. I prefer the bodice on this one the bodice but full length and half sleeves. I’m yet to find one that’s exactly what I’d like (and even if I did find it online I’d be too scared to order it because of all of the restrictions on returning it if it’s not the colour/fit you expected – also I bet I could make it for less than they’re charging)

Does anyone know of a similar dress pattern that could be modified? I guess it wouldn’t be too hard to self draft as I’ve got a bodice pattern that I know fits me well and the gathered skirt would be fairly straightforward. I’ll have to make a test out of old bedsheets and see how it goes.

To those who’ve made/had a relative make their wedding dress – where did you start? How long did it take? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!
(P.S. I’m a competent sewer, and I’ve made a few dresses before, although I’ve stuck to cotton and other easy-to-work-with fabrics)