CNN
By: Gwendolyn Sung   @CNNMoney

Since getting engaged last September, planning for my wedding has taken over my life.

From scoping out wedding venues, to tasting banquet food, to meeting vendors, I’ve spent my last eight months planning the big day.

But here’s one thing I haven’t spent a single night worrying about: my wedding dress.

Surprised?

That’s because I’m Taiwanese American and am in on a little-known secret.

It’s called the hun sha 婚紗 package. Traditionally, hun sha means bridal portraits.

Unlike Western traditions, Taiwanese brides-to-be go through these sessions before their actual wedding day. The photos are seen as a status symbol as well as a way to capture the brides’ youth and glamor.

In my case, I chose a deluxe package that included not only the photography but my actual gown rental as well. As part of this package, I was able to choose from some of the most glamorous wedding dresses that are available for rent. My three selected gowns are altered to fit me and shipped to my house.     [FULL  STORY]