Shopping Tips

If you’re a bride-to-be... Best wishes on your engagement and upcoming wedding! If you’ve decided to get married and you’re planning on a ceremony, you’re committed and ambitious! Realize, though, that you’ve set out to do something pretty serious in scope - even if it's a small ceremony in your backyard or a casual barbecue for 30 people, a wedding is a lot of work. So don’t worry if the details start to feel overwhelming.... that just means you’re doing it right! If you have yet to purchase a gown, we suggest you seek out a full-service, locally-owned bridal shop somewhere in your region, and here’s why.... 1. You'll need expert advice. Whether it’s an explanation of fabrics and laces or guidance as to what styles most flatter your figure type, bridal consultants can light your way. They know a plethora of details you’ve probably never thought about... what companies offer the quickest cuts at the lowest rush rates, where to find matching trims or extra fabrics, exactly how long a size 8 runs from hollow to hem, the difference between poly silk and silk satin and why one costs more, etc., etc. And importantly, a wedding gown is custom fitted to your unique measurements...only a trained bridal consultant/seamstress can ensure a stunning fit! 2. You’re going to spend a significant amount of money, so do it with people with the right attitude: gratitude. Being the bride gives you a truly unparalleled opportunity to feel and look beautiful while making your money count. It’s true! Every penny you spend towards your own wedding “ensemble” makes the day more your own. In contrast: Does the reception food hold in your waist, show off your shoulders or make you feel great? (Well, the wine perhaps...) Point being, few wedding purchases really impact the bride like what she puts on her body. And the money you spend outfitting yourself, no matter what the exact dollar figure, makes you a V.I.P. to an independent business. Where a few hundred dollars at a department store won’t signal any whistles or bells for the cashier, the same amount spent with an independent retailer is real money to the person who rings you up. If you’re spending more than a few hundred (as most people do), it stands to reason you'll want someone to notice and be nice about it. Every retailer I know is grateful and gracious at receiving business from a local bride. They do take for granted that you should patronize them, but they do appreciate it when you do. And that attitude certainly helps engender a good working relationship, which you’ll need because you'll have so many reasons to pop back into the shop before the wedding date. 3. Use a business that has a community reputation to uphold. Independent bridal shops depend on local referrals more than other types of businesses. They are generally owned by people who are active in their communities, and those owners have a big stake in maintaining positive press. As a rule, independent bridal shops hold themselves to a very high level of responsibility - higher than retail chain stores or discount outlets. To sum up: We’ve spent 16 years helping businesses cater to brides, and we've learned that the majority of independent, full-service shops offer great value for your money...and that supporting the locals over a national outlet requires no compromise in quality or styling of goods. So spend your money where it counts: close to home!