Ready to start your dress shopping journey, but don’t really know where to begin? With so many options it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which appointment selections are the best fit for you and your guests. That’s why we’re helping you make sense of bridal shop lingo, appointment types, and special events – to help you set realistic expectations as you begin your search for your dream dress!
Bridal Appointments
Bridal appointments are the most common way for a bride to find her dress – they are scheduled fittings to try on multiple gowns and are available at every bridal shop. Typical bridal appointments range from 60-90 minutes in length and are the best place to start exploring your personal preferences in gown styles, fits, and fabrics. As the bride, you’ll try on a variety of gowns, usually with a dedicated stylist, and view accessories that will compliment your look. Ultimately, the goal of your bridal appointment is to try on and narrow down your gown options to find your favorite. That’s when you “say yes to the dress”.
Some Kansas City bridal stores offer upgraded bridal experiences for you and your guests at these appointments for a nominal fee! They could include anything from champagne, treats, or private viewing areas that in turn elevate your experience and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Make sure to ask if those options are available when you call to book your appointment.
Pro Tip – Most bridal stores require appointments, and it’s important to schedule these well in advance to ensure you’re able to visit the stores you’re most interested in. Walk-ins can sometimes be hard for stores accommodate, and during busy season stores can book up well in advance.
Trunk Shows
If you’ve fallen in love with a specific designer, then shopping for your dress during a trunk show will be a dream! During a trunk show, a bridal store will receive additional dresses from the designer to share with brides. It’s an exclusive opportunity to shop more dress styles from the designer than what is regularly in inventory. The hosting bridal store may even offer a slight discount on gown purchases from that designer during the trunk show dates.
Pro Tip – If you have fallen in love with a designer, follow them on social media and see if they are available in Kansas City. Trunk show events are always promoted and easy to learn about. You can also visit the designer’s website and check for any upcoming events.
Sample Sale
Sample sales are the perfect opportunity to say yes to your dress for less! Bridal stores will host sample sales to move older inventory and make room for new inventory coming in. If you have a more conservative budget, are planning on a tight timeline, or are simply looking for a good deal, sample sales are for you, as you can find your dress for a fraction of the price.
Pro Tip – Sample sales mean you take the gown as-is which could require additional alterations, cleaning, and possibly minor repairs. Make sure you inspect all merchandise prior to purchasing so you know exactly what needs to be done. And remember, most stores do not include alterations in the price of the gown so make sure you’re purchasing a dress that can be altered down, or let out slightly, to ensure proper fit.
SARAH BRONSON
COMPANY: All My Heart Bridal
Why AMH – I wanted to create a space where women could feel amazing, and not judged for their size, who they love, or what they look like. Getting to know women from all over the world has been an amazing experience, and I am fortunate to share in this journey with them.
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