A useful checklist of wedding dress-related questions can be very helpful when getting ready for your appointment. Knowing what questions to ask your consultant in advance will make you feel less anxious while you’re in the dressing room. It’s also a good idea to become familiar with the general timeline for wedding dress shopping.
Here is a checklist of wedding dress questions you should ask before buying your wedding dress.
I have a certain budget; do you have dresses within this range?
Usually, dress boutiques list their starting prices on their websites, but you should always call ahead to make sure those dresses fit within your budget. Otherwise, you might be in for a letdown. Otherwise, you might end up being disappointed.
Give your consultant your set budget so they don’t show you styles that are out of your price range and check their trunk show calendar as well. It’s also the best way to see the designer’s entire new collection because you may be able to meet them and receive a discount if you buy a gown there.
What size range do you have?
Although many bridal designers and bridal boutiques are expanding their size-inclusive offerings, it is still advisable to contact potential stores before scheduling an appointment. You shouldn’t assume that every bridal shop will have what you need. To ensure you have a wide selection, first ask about their [size] inventory and how many of these types of dresses they have on hand.
Look for boutiques that cater to petite or plus-size brides, or check out boutiques that collaborate with dress designers to offer extended size ranges and customization.
If I would like to try on dresses, when can I schedule an appointment?
Although schedules can get hectic and you can’t always plan everything, we strongly advise you to make your bridal appointment in advance. By doing so, you can count on the most personalized shopping experience possible, and you will have the most time and attention to find your perfect dress.
The ideal number of dresses to try on is between four and seven, and they don’t all have to be at the same boutique. If they stock different designers, don’t be afraid to make appointments at a couple of different boutiques. Keep in mind, though, that some boutiques will charge you to make an appointment and deduct that fee from the price of the dress when you buy it. You might end up spending a lot of money if you book multiple appointments.
How many fittings and when will I get them?
There may be up to four fittings, so plan and leave enough time for necessary alterations to get everything just right. In order to get the best fit, most salons start their brides’ fittings six weeks before their wedding, especially if they’re trying to get in shape and want to lose a few pounds.
If you’re an out-of-state bride, tell the salon how many days you need the gown altered and when you need it finished.
What must I bring with me to my fittings?
We advise calling ahead or sending an email in advance to confirm whether the salon offers a variety of heels and slimming garments or any other accessories so you can get the full effect of your gown on your wedding day.
Some brides want to wear a special item on their wedding day. It will help your stylist know if you have any specific plans so that they can incorporate any heirlooms or accessories into your appointment and ensure that great-veil grandmother’s gets its moment to shine.
If you are certain that you will be wearing shapewear on your wedding day, bring it with you. Don’t forget to bring your wedding shoes to your dress fitting if you’ve already found them! It will be much easier to choose the correct length for the hem of your gown if you have them on hand.
Which dresses do you think will look best on me?
A reputable boutique staff will have plenty of knowledge regarding which styles fit your body type and should be able to advise you, including styles that you have never thought of before. Trust their advice because a dress can look completely different on a hanger than it does in person.
You must consider your height, complexion, and figure as well as the venue, the wedding’s theme, and the areas you want to highlight or conceal. The shop assistant is your BFF during this process.
Could you please show me how to put on my gown? Can I record it?
Be sure to check first to see if you can take pictures or record videos of yourself wearing wedding dresses because some stores have strict rules against it. If the boutique allows it, get step-by-step instructions and, if possible, record the procedure to make things as simple as possible.
What if my weight fluctuates? How much will last-minute adjustments cost?
It’s completely normal for your weight to fluctuate between your first fitting and your wedding day, which can be months or even years. It makes no difference how much you weigh on your wedding day, but you don’t want to be concerned that your gown will not fit. And the last thing you need on your special day is to deal with a wardrobe malfunction. To put your mind at ease, ensure that your dress can be taken in or let out at the last minute to ensure that it still fits perfectly.
Are alterations included in the price? Do you do in-house alterations with qualified fitters and seamstresses?
Many boutiques provide an in-house service using their own seamstress, or if they don’t, they’ll gladly recommend one in your area. Knowing what to anticipate will help you set aside money for expenses other than the cost of the dress as well as the time required for appointments for alterations. The cost will vary depending on what you’re having done, such as adding sleeves, raising the hemline, or adding embellishment. Ask your bridal consultant or the sales associate to clearly break down everything you’ll be expected to pay.
Will the dress be steamed and delivered to me?
Usually, you’ll pick up your dress on the day of your last fitting, but your dress shop may be willing to deliver and will also take care of dry cleaning and steaming your gown. Get specific instructions for what you can and cannot do if you’re taking the dress home and it hasn’t been steamed; in this case, an iron might not be your fabric’s best friend.
How does the payment process work? What happens if I change my mind?
Most boutiques accept all forms of payment, but some may give you a small discount if you pay in cash. Asking about this never hurts, and you never know—you might get a deal.
Some salons demand down 50% of the total cost. Prior to your wedding, the rest is usually paid in installments, so be sure you know the payment plan.
Do not forget to inquire about the store’s refund and cancellation policies as well. Most dresses are custom orders, and stores will not refund your deposit or full cost if you change your mind. However, each boutique’s policy is different.
