Independent bridal and formalwear retailers struggling to offer competitive health benefits have a new industry-backed option: Formal Apparel Healthcare Association.
Driven by Mon Cheri Bridals following years of feedback from retailers, the newly launched FAHA introduces an association-based benefits model available to independent bridal and formalwear retailers nationwide regardless of vendor affiliation.
“With the Formal Apparel Healthcare Association, independent retailers finally have a practical way to offer meaningful health coverage without the cost and complexity of traditional group insurance,” said Ryan Bradley, Head of HR and Chief People Officer at Mon Cheri Bridals.
“FAHA is designed to help boutiques compete for talent, strengthen retention, and build more stable, high-performing teams,” he added.
FAHA is tailored to independent bridal’s operating realities, providing:
-Optional employer contributions;
-Year-round employee enrollment (no qualifying life event required)
-No participation minimums;
-Centralized administration and compliance support;
-ERISA protection for participating retailers
Through association membership, eligible employees can access multiple plan types, including visit-limit plans, comprehensive major medical PPO options, HSA-compatible plans, and ancillary benefits such as dental, vision, life, and estate planning.
Plans also include prescription coverage, telemedicine services, and nationwide PPO networks.
According to the FAHA, the ability to offer healthcare access for boutiques may:
-Strengthen recruiting conversations;
-Improve employee retention;
-Enhance team stability and client experience:
-Reduce the high cost of turnover.
As labor market competition remains intense—and as Gen Z and Millennial employees increasingly view benefits as baseline—accessible healthcare solutions are expected to play a growing role in boutique workforce strategy.
Enrollment in FAHA is open year-round. Participation is subject to medical screening. For more information, visit https://www.membershipplusbenefits.com/faha and/or email ryan@moncheribridals.com.
