Wedding dress shopping is stressful enough without the added stress of feeling like you didn’t get all the information you needed to make your final decision. So we’ve put together a list of the ten questions you NEED to ask when you go wedding dress shopping, to help you make your final decision.
If you are shopping at a ready-to-wear wedding dress store, than the price tag you see will definitely not be the final price. Alterations usually cost at least a couple of hundred dollars for just bringing up a hem, let along any other modifications you may want. So be sure to ask them to give you realistic alteration costs so that you can be well informed when comparing wedding dress prices for your budget.
Whether you have decided to wear a veil or not, it can greatly impact and change the entire look of a dress when it’s added to the ensemble. So always be sure to ask to see the dress with a veil they have, and try on different veils styles, a fingertip veil will help to add a modern touch to your look, while a longer veil will often create a more traditional, dramatic look.
If you like the top of one dress but the bottom of another, be sure to ask if modifications are an option so that you can combine the two styles to create your dream dress. Especially at made-to-measure stores, the options here are endless. The fabric you want, or any extra detailing is all something that can come as an option for an extra price.
Whether you are at a ready-to-wear wedding dress store, or a made-to-measure wedding dress store, you will need to know how long it will take for your dress to get to you. Many stores will take anywhere from three to 8 months depending on the dress. So make sure you know how long it will take to get your dress, and if you will also need to factor in express shipping because of your wedding date.
This is a great one for our budget-savvy fairies. A sample gown could be a great deal as they’re usually heavily discounted due to wear and tear and may not come in your exact size. If the sample is in good shape and fits you within three sizes, it’s worth looking into.
This question give you and your consultant the opportunity to play with the overall look of the gown. Even considerations such as hair up or down will greatly impact how the whole outfit comes together. Plus, the earlier you ask about accessories, the better, since more elaborate orders, like custom headpieces, take longer to arrive.
Trunk shows give designers the opportunity to display new gowns that will be coming soon as well as those that may not be available in store. If you really like a certain designer, ask if they have a trunk show coming up as you will then also get the option to speak to the designer directly. You can discuss the gowns you like and any changes you may want to make to it. Also, the most trunk shows discount your purchase!
Made-to-measure and custom gowns require at least three rounds of alterations, so it’s important to know if the store offers alterations in-house, or if you will need to go elsewhere – it is also good to get your consultant to recommend a tailor. If you’re planning on losing weight start the process later. Also, be sure to plan a fitting a week or two before your wedding for the most accurate fit.
This is an easy question to forget to ask, but the last thing you want is to walk down the aisle in a wrinkled gown. If your dress won’t be steamed when it arrives, make sure you bring a steamer to your venue or ask if one will be provided.
Different stores have different expectations when it comes to payment, so you’ll need to be clear on when the full balance of your dress is due. Sometimes stores require full payment up front, while others expect the full balance when your dress arrives in the store. Make sure you know all the details to avoid confusion. Also, ask if you get a discount to the dress if you pay the whole balance up front, as this is usually an option.
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