Your wedding dress is a symbol of your love story, and finding the perfect one is a magical moment in the wedding planning journey. However, before you step foot in a boutique, it's essential to arm yourself with the right questions to ensure a successful and stress-free dress shopping experience. Here are some of the questions you should ask the boutique or search for in their FAQ before starting your wedding dress shopping adventure. A reputable boutique should have all these questions answered on their website or in your booking forms

Do I need an Appointment?

MOST/MANY boutiques operate by appointment-only, so it's crucial to inquire about their policy beforehand. Booking an appointment ensures that you receive personalized attention from a consultant who can help you find the dress of your dreams. 

What do Appointments cost?

Many boutiques institute flat fees per type of appointment. This is nothing to be alarmed at! It usually means they are providing a higher level of customer service! There may be a fee + a cancellation fee. Always good to know ahead of time

What's Your Price Range?

Understanding the price range of the dresses offered at the boutique will save you time and potential disappointment. Be open about your budget ,and the boutique staff will be better equipped to show you dresses that align with your financial plan.

For example: Our boutiques starts at $500 and caps at $2000. If your budget was under $500 we would direct you to our Little White Dress collection prior to confirming your appointment

What Sizes Do You Carry?

Made- to-Order Boutiques usually have sample dresses in specific sizes for trying on. Inquire about their size range to ensure they have options that can accommodate your measurements comfortably. 

Remember! “Bridal Sizing” is completely different from your everyday street wear. You are typically 1-2 sizes bigger in wedding dress than everyday.

Many boutiques also offer custom sizing, so it's worth asking about this option as well!

Since our boutique is off-rack, we carry 0-38 in stock!

Can I Bring Guests?

Clarify the boutique's policy on bringing guests along for your dress shopping appointment. Some boutiques have limited space, while others welcome a small entourage. Understanding their guidelines will help you plan accordingly and ensure you have the right support during this exciting time.

If they have a limit on guests, ask about Zoom or Facetime opportunities

How Long Does the Appointment Last?

It's beneficial to know the expected duration of your dress shopping appointment, especially if you have other arrangements to consider. Some appointments may last an hour, while others might be longer, so be sure to plan your schedule accordingly.

What Should I Bring to the Appointment?

To make the most of your dress shopping experience, ask the boutique if there's anything specific you should bring. This might include undergarments, shoes with a similar heel height to what you plan to wear on your wedding day, or any inspirational images you have collected.

Can I Take Photos of the Dresses?

Some boutiques have a no-photography policy (not us HEHE take all the photos), while others may allow you to take pictures for reference. Make sure to ask about their photo policy, as having pictures can be helpful when making your final decision.

What is the Order and Alteration Timeline?

Understanding the timeline for ordering your dress and any necessary alterations is vital for a stress-free dress shopping experience. Many wedding dresses are made-to-order, which means they can take several months to arrive. Additionally, alterations may take several weeks, so plan ahead to ensure your dress is ready well before your big day.

Can I Make Special Requests or Customizations?

If you have specific design elements or customizations in mind, ask the boutique if they can accommodate your requests. Some boutiques offer customization options, such as changing the neckline, adding sleeves, or incorporating unique embellishments.

Do You Offer Dress Preservation Services

After the wedding, preserving your dress ensures it remains in pristine condition as a cherished keepsake. Ask the boutique if they provide dress preservation services or if they can recommend a reputable preservation specialist.

Can You Provide Recommendations for Undergarments?

The right undergarments can enhance the fit and comfort of your wedding dress. Ask the boutique if they have any recommendations for supportive undergarments that will work well with the dresses you try on.

Do you work with an exclusive seamstress?

If the boutique doesn't provide in-house alterations, ask if they can recommend experienced and skilled seamstresses who specialize in bridal gown alterations. Having a reputable seamstress is crucial to ensure your dress fits perfectly on your special day.

With these additional questions, you'll be well-prepared and equipped to make the most of your wedding dress shopping experience. Remember, wedding dress shopping is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so have fun, cherish the moments, and celebrate the journey to finding your dream dress!