Don’t Even Think About Skipping These Questions
Movies and TV shows make it look so easy—a bride-to-be goes in, finds the perfect dress in half an hour, and has her dream wedding shortly after. In reality, finding the right gown is far more stressful! Don’t worry, we’re here to help, and that’s why we’ve compiled a list of essential questions every bride should ask during their consultation.
1. “How Does My Appointment Work?”
It may seem like an amateur question but every boutique has its own set of rules! It’s important to know how long typical appointments last, what you can expect, and whether consultants need you to bring anything. The more information you have beforehand, the smoother the appointment will be.
2. “Which Designers Do You Sell?”
Dress shopping can be overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what’s available. There’s no shame in asking what certain boutiques have available. Do some research at home and call multiple locations to ensure you wind up at the best place for your needs.
3. “Can I Browse First?”
You may be surprised to hear that browsing isn’t always an option. Popular boutiques are often booked solid with appointments, which means they may not open their doors. Others actually charge a small fee for the privilege. It’s best to call ahead.
4. “Do You Sell Anything Else Here?”
Accessories make or break an ensemble, so make sure you inquire! From tiaras and veils to jewelry and shoes, some boutiques are a one-stop shop for all your needs while others only have select items available.
5. “Which Dress Will Complement Me?”
Dress shopping is no different than clothes shopping—what looks good on the rack might not look the same on your person. It’s good to have ideas in mind before you arrive, but consultants are trained to help you find the best match for your shape. Recruit their advice as well.
6. “What Should I Bring to My Appointment?”
Like anything in life, it’s good to be prepared! Call your boutique and ask if they need specifics from you. Some welcome accessories you plan on wearing while others have their own food and drink rules in place. It’s also good to go in the same undergarments you plan on wearing so you’ll get the best fit.
7. “Can I Buy Sample Sizes?”
Sample sizes come with pros and cons. The good news is that they’re often heavily discounted. The bad news is that these dresses are tried on by many brides, meaning you might see imperfections. However, if you’re on a budget and don’t care much about the details, ask your boutique if they offer sample size sales or would put the dress aside for you.
8. “What Sizes Do You Have Here?”
As inclusive as clothing stores are nowadays, not every one suits every body. Call ahead and inquire about available sizes. Bridal sizing can also vary greatly from everyday sizing, so it’s a good question regardless.
9. “How Many Fittings Will There Be?”
You’ve twirled around, you’ve said yes to the dress, but that isn’t always the end! Custom gowns could take several months of alterations and fittings before it’s perfect, so double-check with your boutique about their timeline.
10. “What’s the Alterations Policy?”
Alterations are one thing, but last-minute alterations cause a new kind of headache. Anything from weight fluctuations to sudden tweaks warrant the sewing needle, so speak with your boutique about their flexibility.
11. “Does This Dress Have a Bustle?”
The last thing you need is an uncomfortable wedding day! Some dresses come equipped with bustles, removable pieces, or lengthy fabric you can actually remove during the day. Ask your consultant about any adjustable pieces to ensure you’re prepared for the big day.
12. “How Much Are Average Deposits?”
You may have found the perfect dress, but it’s not always perfect for our budget. Speak with your consultant about deposit timelines and potential payment plans. Some boutiques require the costs upfront while others wait until you pick up the final gown—make sure you iron out the wrinkles and plan accordingly.
13. “Does This Make Sense for Me?”
Even stunning dresses won’t always make sense for your wedding. Consider all your options and focus on important details. Are you getting married outside? Can you walk around in a ballgown all night? Is this dress easy to maneuver?
14. “How Long Are Dresses Available?”
Good things hardly last and that’s especially true of wedding gowns. Make sure you ask how long boutiques will hold your dress—if they even can at all. Between ever-changing stock and endless customers, your perfect gown might not be there a week from now.
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15. “How Many Guests Can I Bring?”
We know you’re excited to show off that dress but most boutiques cap the guest list between two to three people. It may seem harsh, but inviting too many people also opens the door for too many opinions!
16. “Are There Any Upcoming Trunk Shows?”
Trunk shows offer incredible gowns unavailable in stores—often with the designers themselves in tow. You’ll not only have a chance to nab something unique but you may even score a discount for buying dresses at the actual show. Ask your consultant about any upcoming events.
17. “Do You Have Undergarment Recommendations?”
With so many fabrics and styles available, it’s worth asking about suitable undergarments. They’ll not only impact the look of your gown, but the right options keep you comfortable during the big day.
18. “What is the Refund Policy?”
Most brides stop when they find the perfect gown. Others like to keep their options open. If you’re in the latter group, it’s best to ask about cancellation policies or refund options. Most boutiques won’t offer full refunds but it’s still worth it to inquire.
19. “When Will My Dress Arrive?”
Make no mistake—most bridal shops need at least six to nine months to prepare a final dress. Get a comprehensive breakdown of their timeline, including alterations and final looks. No bride deserves the headache of a missing gown come showtime!
20. “What is Proper Storage?”
Most dresses arrive already steamed and pressed for you. However, it’s vital to know proper care and storage once it’s finally passed to you. It’s especially important if you have a travel destination wedding.
