Siy
(1) It's always good to call and fix appointment. If u are going for the ala carte boutiques like Jawn Happy Ever After, Emanuel B, Silouette, Ted Collection, Bridal Veil etc, an appointment is a must. For the all-in-one boutiques, they will serve u only if they are available, hence still good to make appointments. If u want to walk in, good to do it on a weekdays when they are not as busy hence more willing to assist u.
(2) Calling always better than emailing. Very immediate confirmation. I feel tat not all BSs are prompt to checking emails.
(3) There is a directory on SgBrides. Best is to visit each of the websites. Do u have any particular ones u have shortlisted? Some of us may already have the contacts and can help.
(4) I think it helps that you let them know specifically that u would like to try on some gowns on your appointments. For walk-ins they are not that willing to let u try gowns. In all my appointments, I made my request when fixing the appt and the BSs have been okay in obliging with that. In fact, for Jawn, whom I signed up with, I went to try the gowns twice. With Emnauel B, I went to them just to try gowns for like more than 1 hour!
What's ur budget and what kind of gowns are u looking for? All-in-1 or alacarte? We can give recommendations!