GOWN SHOPPING primer

The vast majority of bridal stores - including some of the largest and most prestigious in the country - are family-owned businesses. The atmosphere and services offered by these stores can be as different as the personalities of the people who own them. Most bridal stores are owed and operated by people who live within the community they serve so shopping at these stores isn’t at all like shopping at a department store owned by an anonymous corporation. You can expect a higher level of personal attention and service – and in return the store staff will expect a higher level of courtesy from you.
All full-service stores provide a qualified, professional, trained consultant to assist you in shopping for your gown. Most stores require some form of customer registration before a fitting room is assigned to you. The information requested during the registration process can range from a few basic questions printed on an index card to an entire battery of questions that may fill two or more pages. This registration is meant to identify the specific needs of each customer, which will allow your consultant to determine how she can best respond to all of your needs. If you’re simply shopping for the best price for a gown you’ve already selected at another store, share this information with the consultant. It will save time for both of you.
Many full-service stores (and department stores too) offer a selection of traditional and contemporary bridal gowns that can be purchased off-the-rack as a supplement to their custom-order gown inventory. In addition, many stores offer a collection of sample or discontinued styles that may be purchased off-the-rack at only a fraction of the original retail price.
Any full-service bridal store should provide a one-stop shopping experience for the bride- to-be, offering a selection of veils and other accessories in addition to gowns. While there is absolutely no obligation to purchase your entire ensemble at any one store, it’s best to see yourself in a gown you're considering with all the trimmings before you make your final decision.
Some stores go far beyond catering solely to the bride’s apparel needs. Many offer an impressive selection of bridesmaid and social occasion dresses as well as dresses that are ideal for mothers of the bride and groom. Some also offer tuxedo rental and men’s formal wear and accessory retail items.