Full Service Bridal Boutiques
By Tara Delskey

Traditionally these stores offer a full range of services for the bride as well as the entire wedding party at a wide range of prices. In addition, they will most likely have all the coordinating accessories you will need, like  bridal shoes, veils, jewelry and undergarments. You will most likely have a consultant working with you at all times guiding you through the process from start to finish. Typically these stores special order gowns for the bride and her attendants, but sometimes off-the-rack purchases may be available. These stores have on-site seamstresses who do all of the bridal gown alterations, and they can also offer customization of gown for brides who are looking for something unique!  Price ranges and designers will vary from moderate to high end.

Discount Outlets and Online Ordering

Outlet shops and online ordering are self-service or reduced-service, and most likely will not offer on-site alterations. Generally, brides who shop these should expect to buy off-the-rack, and take the gown home when it is purchased. Styles are a mix of discontinued national brands and privately labeled merchandise sold at reduced prices. Many brides must pay up-front for their bridal gowns and the merchandise may be flawed or defective. Shipping, pressing and alteration costs may need to be added into the final cost of the gown.

Many of the most respected wedding gown manufacturers and bridal consultants will tell you, "The #1 item to not buy on the Internet is a wedding dress."

National Bridal Chain Stores

These stores manufacture, import and sell their own private label bridal gowns. That means that style and selection may be limited. Prices may not be lower and the quality of the service will be less personal, as you will be buying something off-the-rack without a professional consultant’s help.
                          
ORDERING YOUR WEDDING DRESS

When ordering your wedding dress, be sure you review your receipt and the store polices and procedures.  Here are some of the items that should be listed on your receipt:
• Style, size, and color ordered
• Payment Policy
• Estimated delivery of bridal dress
• Alteration cost estimate
• Number of fittings expected
• Additional fees, if needed
• Cancellation policy
• Store policies and procedures
• You should receive a copy of the receipt showing your deposit and balance.

Tara Delskey is the owner of Bancroft Bridals in Agawam, MA.  You can reach Tara at bbridalstd@comcast.net