Q- How much do bridal gowns cost these days?
A- Every store is different but at Michele- A Bridal Boutique, although the prices vary from season to season- the general retail price range of our gowns starts at $1250 and tops out around $5000 with our average gown sale price between $1600-$2750.
Q- Do I need an appointment?
A- YES. We do require an appointment to try on Wedding and Special Occasion gowns so that we can provide you with the best shopping experience possible. You can request an appointment by clicking here.
Q- How do I prepare for my appointment?
A- Determine a budget for your gown. If you have fallen in love with a designer online, please be sure to call us and inquire as to whether that the designer’s gowns are within the budget you have set forth. Also, determine who is paying for the gown. Be prepared to potentially find “the gown”.
-We’re all guilty of telling ourselves “we’re just getting ideas, we have no plans of buying anything”. You probably will find something you love so coming in with an open mind and open heart is something that helps you overcome that hurdle of “not expecting to find anything that day”.
Q- How long does it take to get a gown in?
A- 5-8 months, sometimes faster if they are in stock.
Q- Do you have an “in-house seamstress”?
A- No we do not offer alterations in house. We respect the art of the “perfectly tailored gown” and feel it is a business within itself that deserves the undivided attention in a private studio. We have hand selected tailors to refer you to.
Recommended Seamstresses
- DeMelis Atilier, Haddam – 860-883-8259
- Angie Lu Tailors, Madison – 230-245-9381
- Sara Tovar, Milford – 203-676-7213
Q- Will I need alterations on my gown?
A- 99% of the time the answer is yes. We order a size based on comparing your bust, waist and hip measurements alongside the designers size chart to get you the closest size. They are not custom gowns.
Q- How much do Alterations cost?
A- Popular question. It all depends on how much work needs to be done. We suggest having a consultation with your potential seamstress prior to committing to a first fitting. These are free of charge and an estimate can be given to you at that time.
Q- How many people can I bring to my appointment?
A- Since our appointments are 1 bride at a time, we can accommodate a large group. Please let us know while making your appointment so we can make arrangements.
Q- How many people should I bring to my appointment?
A- The peoples who’s opinions you value the most, who know you the best and are the most supportive.
Temporary addendum to our guest policy: No more than 2-3 guests per bridal appointment. If a group of more than 4 arrive to the appointment, we will need to reschedule for a later date.
Q- Are Children allowed in the store?
A- Of course they are. We see lots of different opinions on this matter. Obviously, there might be pins on the floor, there are delicate trinkets and tipsy mannequins but we give our moms credit that they will make sure to designate a family member to take care of the little ones while attending a bridal appointment.
Q- Do you offer discounts on your gowns?
A- We value our partnerships with our designers. To preserve the integrity of their designs, discounts are only extended during sample sales, trunk shows and other special promotions. Follow us on Social media here to keep up on the latest promo.
Q- What is a “Trunk Show”?
A- A trunk show is when the designer sends us a “trunk” containing their latest collection along with some of their classic pieces. We offer a beautiful sweet or savory spread and serve our signature Lavender Martinis during our special events. Our accessory truck show appointments are strictly on the hour where we put our bride in their gown and professionally style them from head to toe with beautiful jewelry, hair pieces, veils and sashes. There is a discount extended for trunk show weekends only and isn’t transferable to be purchased at a later date.
Q- Do you carry bridesmaids gowns?
A- No we do not but we have a favorite salon in the area that we refer our brides to. You can find them by clicking here
https://www.blushbridesmaid.com
Q- What forms of payment do you accept?
A- Visa, MasterCard, American Express & Personal Checks.
Q- How much of a deposit do you require?
A- 60% for a new gown order. Sample Gowns must be paid in full and taken with you at the time of purchase.
Q- Do you offer private champagne appointments?
A- Every appointment is a private champagne appointment. If you would like to rent the salon for a Sunday afternoon- please inquire within.
