Ask the Expert: Q&A with Our Head of Store
Our store manager shares the ins-and-outs of every bridal appointment, so you know exactly what to expect.
You answered the most important question—Will you marry me?—without hesitation. But when it comes to the second most important question—Is this The Dress?—it’s easy to get cold feet. We are here to answer some of the most commonly asked queries we hear from brides as they embark upon their dress-shopping journey.
Q: How far in advance should I start shopping for a gown?
A: I recommend coming in as early as you can, and here’s why: You are the star of the show! The dress is one of the elements that provide direction for the entire wedding, and if you choose a gown early on in your journey, it will help everything else fall into place. The dress may even influence which venue you choose.
While some weddings take place within a few weeks, the average engagement lasts six months. We will try our best to meet any deadline you have—and help you customize your look for the most important day in your life.
Q: When is the best time to schedule my appointment?
A: If you want a quieter, more personalized experience, try to schedule an appointment during the weekday, Monday through Thursday. These are our quieter times in the store, and we are able to offer our brides as much attention as they need.
If you choose to visit us on the weekends, we recommend bringing only your one or two most trusted friends or relatives to help you make the decision.
Our bridal appointments are 60 minutes long and our sales coordinator will pick out dresses suitable for your body shape and style closest to what you like.
“Our sales coordinator will ensure that you walk out of the store confident, with the look that’s right for you!”
Q: If I just want to look around, do I need to book an appointment?
A: I highly recommend making an appointment. We want to ensure you have all the support you need to make that decision, and an appointment helps us to provide you with the best possible service.
Q: I am the kind of person who likes to shop alone. Can I come in by myself?
A: Of course! Shopping for a bridal gown is just like your wedding—it is all about you and should reflect your personality.
We help many brides who choose to shop by themselves. Our experts will be here to assist you with your decision, and they will ensure that you walk out of the store confident, with the look that’s right for you.
Q: I’ve heard that bridal shops often don’t carry a large range of sizes. If I like a dress I’ve seen online, is there a way I can try it on in the store?
A: If we don’t have the exact style and size you want, we know that we can find something similar in the store that is representative of your vision and inspiration.
We recommend coming in to try on dresses to determine the appropriate size for the style you pick out. Make to measure (takes 3-6 months) is recommended for bride of uk size 12 and above for the perfect fitted dress on your big day.
“Your dress will be unique because you are unique, and it will suit you in every way—your inspiration, your style, your personality.”
Q: There are so many brides out there—can I really expect to find a dress that’s unique to me?
A: Your dress will be unique because you are unique, and it will suit you in every way—your inspiration, your style, your personality. But there are other ways to ensure that your dress is truly yours.
One way to customize the look of your gown is with accessories. We offer more than 50 veil styles, and different lengths change the look and feel of the dress. I worked with one bride who added a cathedral-length veil and it trailed on the floor her grand church wedding! It suited the bride and her event.
Q: Will my appointment be like the shows I see on TV?
A: Let’s be real—TV is for entertainment, and those shows play up the drama for ratings. Our store experience is different, as it is focused solely on helping you find your dream dress!