Your bridal shop appointment is set, you've found inspiration for your wedding dress, and you've enlisted your friends to help you shop. So what's next? Getting ready for your appointment can be easier with a handy wedding dress questions checklist. It's a good idea to get familiar with the general wedding dress shopping timeline, and you'll feel less stressed in the dressing room if you know what to ask your consultant beforehand. Make sure everyone is on the same page, and don't forget any important details when searching for the perfect dress by bookmarking this list of questions.
(Prior to your first appointment, we encourage you to read our FAQs first - there are some questions you can find there that won’t be covered in this blog!)
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Do I have any limitations regarding my wedding date?
Your wedding date can affect your gown shopping experience before you even step foot in our bridal salon! In most cases, it takes four to six months for your gown to arrive and another two to three months for alterations. Depending on when you're shopping, you might only be able to try on samples or off-the-rack gowns (styles you've tried on before, but you can usually take home the same day). Besides, while rush deliveries can sometimes be arranged for an additional fee, keep in mind that smaller stores may not be able to handle last-minute orders, and designers may not always be able to meet your deadline. Knowing your limits is always a good idea.
Is this dress a sample or special order?
It is likely that the dress will arrive six to nine months after you order it if it is a special order. You can usually take home a sample dress from the rack the same day you buy it.
What is the average cost of alterations for a gown?
It's important to factor in alterations before committing to a dress, especially if it falls on the higher end of your price range, even if there's a tailor in-house. Even though we don't offer in-house tailoring, we can recommend a few amazing bridal seamstresses!
For minor changes, such as adjusting the hem, wedding dress alterations may cost a few hundred dollars whereas extensive changes, such as restructuring the silhouette or adding beading, can cost upwards of $1,000.
Can I customize a gown?
All of this will be explained to you during your appointment with us. It's a good question to ask, since dresses are often able to be altered to suit your tastes. There are many designers who offer complete customization, e.g. changing the color, changing the bodice, adding sleeves, adding straps, changing the silhouette, etc. If you want the neckline of one gown and the skirt of another, that can be done. There are many possibilities when it comes to these questions, so don't forget to ask them!
Would you be able to send me a sample gown if you don't have it in stock?
Despite the fact that not all bridal designers' collections are available in every store, there is some important background to know. Salon owners choose the styles they want to sell from a designer's new wedding dress collection when it is released. For bridal appointments, they purchase sample gowns from the designer at wholesale costs and try them on. A brand-new version of your dress is ordered based on your measurements after you try on the sample gowns (this is why it can take months to actually receive the dress).
Is this dress still available if I decide to buy it in the near future?
It's time to stop looking after you find "the one." It's perfectly fine to take some time to think about your decision-just be sure your dress will still be available in the future. Salons usually have little notice when designers discontinue styles. You may also receive incentives if you make a first-time purchase at some salons. Asking doesn't hurt, and you might realize you don't want to miss out on a particular dress style by realizing you don't want to miss it.
Is this dress suitable for my wedding?
You want your dress to look perfect, but you should consider a few practical factors before making your final decision. During your wedding day, ask your consultant how a particular style will affect how you sit, walk, and use the restroom. You may want to reconsider your choice if the stylist says the gown could be restrictive, and you plan on dancing all night. You can also consider the fabric of your wedding dress, the length of the train, and where you are getting married when selecting a certain style.
If I change my mind, what will happen?
If you decide you don't like your dress after placing your order, you should find out what the return policy is. Most stores won't refund your wedding gown because they are custom orders, but you should check. The cost may be recouped or another option can be found.
How should I store and transport my gown?
When you pick up your dress from your salon or seamstress, it is likely to be pressed and packed. In addition to knowing how to store it, you should also know how to transport it to the venue. Store it in a protective opaque garment bag if you're storing it outside of the salon to protect it not only from sunlight but also from discoloration. Your dress should be packed in a garment bag (preferably as a carry-on, so you can see it when you arrive) if you are having a destination wedding.
We hope these questions come in handy to prepare for your first appointment! And if you haven’t already, make sure you book yours with us at Dantela Bridal Couture today!