GOWN SHOPPING primer

Perhaps most importantly, full service stores generally are authorized dealers of the designers they select to sell. As such, you’ll have both the shop’s guarantee and the designer’s assurance of satisfaction to stand behind your gown purchase, which will help you avoid delivery date and quality control problems on custom orders.
Some stores that aren’t authorized may offer to obtain the dress you’ve selected (and tried on at an authorized retailer) at a discounted price. On the surface, this may seem like a great idea. However, there are inherent problems in purchasing a gown this way. If a retailer isn’t authorized to sell a designer’s gown, this means that the retailer doesn’t have an account with the designer and can’t order the gown directly. Instead the gown is obtained through a process called trans-shipping, or a third party sale. This isn’t illegal but it can present a risky situation for the average consumer. If there are problems with the gown you’ve ordered, an unauthorized retailer can’t discuss these problems directly with the manufacturer that produced the dress. Rather, the retailer is required to go through a third party - the person or store that is authorized to do business with the manufacturer – to correct the problem. This can get extremely complicated and can jeopardize delivery appropriate to your needs or to your wedding date.
You can overcome this problem by shopping only at stores listed for the gown you’ve selected in bridal magazines or on the designer’s website. Alternatively, you may call the manufacturer directly to confirm that the store you’ve selected is authorized to sell a designer’s gowns.
Virtually all full-service bridal stores require appointments in advance. However, most will do whatever possible to accommodate you without an appointment. It’s a good idea always to call the store in advance of your visit. If possible, schedule your appointment on a weekday. Weekends usually are hectic at full-service stores. A weekday appointment will allow your consultant to spend as much time as possible assisting you.