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What to Expect When You Are Looking to Select & Purchase a Bridal Gown

To the majority of  brides the selection of the bridal gown is the most important
     part of the wedding, not counting picking the right groom of course.
    Many factors  in the selection process are the same for both however.
You want it to be exciting, comfortable, and a purchase that you will not regret.

    To help you not regret your gown purchase, here are some things to look
          for and some things to expect when shopping.


The Questions and Answers below are based on general industry information and information
particular to our store. Feel free to contact us if you have additional question. See Contact Us.

Where should I shop for my gown?
     ♥Ask your friend for referrals. Experience is the best teacher.
     ♥Call local stores for information-Being treated well on the phone is your first indications of how
       you will be treated when you shop.
     ♥Bigger is not always better. We are a private, locally owned store with a personal interest 
         in the customers we serve. We offer a larger selection of styles than national companies.
         Our sales people know their customers and have worked in the bridal industry for years
         not months.

What should you expect from our store when you visit?
     ♥To be greeted and assisted by a friendly and knowledgeable staff. 
     ♥You should feel comfortable asking questions about what services are provided before and
        after the sale such as:
        What is the price range of dresses in the store?
            At the Art of Weddings our dresses range in price from $200-995. for our regular stock
            and $50-400 for our clearance gowns.
        Is the dress I try on the dress I am purchasing?
            At the Art of Weddings we special order our regular stock dresses in the size and color
             that is best for you. If however you need a dress immediately, we will on occasion, at 
             our discretion, elect to sell a regular stock dress off the rack. Some manufacturers 
             carry additional inventory  that may be available  for immediate delivery as well.
             Clearance gowns & regular gowns sold off the rack are sold as is.
        If I'm special ordering my gown, how is my size determined?
            Since gowns are ordered based on a size chart, and since every companies chart is
             different, we make every effort to get the size that will fit you the best and require
             the fewest alterations possible. (See alterations information below.) In order to do
             that we take your current measurements plus, if possible, have you try on a dress
             from the same company in the size we have determined based on the measurements.
             We then consult with you about any expected changes to your size so you can 
             make the best size decision.
        Do I need to pay for my dress in full when I order it or are there other options?

            For bridal gowns you may pay in full or you can make an initial down payment of 1/3 
             and divide the balance up into 3-6 monthly payments.
            For bridesmaids, flower girl, Mother of the Brides gowns, 1/2 is required to order with
              balance due on arrival.
            All gowns do need to be paid for in full before alterations are started.

        How long does it take for my dress to arrive?
            General order time is 4-6 months. Rush orders are available for an additional fee.
             We recommend factoring in additional time for alteration. If you have found THE Dress,
             it is best to order at that time so you don't have to worry about delivery time or
             possible discontinuation. Bridesmaid are usually 12-14 weeks.
        What should I do once my dress comes in?
            It is a good idea to come in and try on your gown ASAP. While there is rarely a
             problems, if there is, the sooner we can address it the better. 
         After trying on my dress do I need to take it with me or is the dress kept at the store?
            At the Art of Weddings we will store the dress at our location for you at no charge. 
             Brides typically leave their dress until after their alterations are complete and the 
             gown has been steamed and pressed. We usually do the pressing the week before
             the wedding and brides usually pick up 2-3 days prior to the wedding. 
         Are there additional charges for alterations?
            Alterations are extra. Our alterations people are independent ladies that have done
             alterations for numerous years. While they are very experienced, they make every
             effort to keep your costs very reasonable, rarely exceeding $100, unless a major 
             modification is requested. Appointments are scheduled directly with the alterations
             person but are done at our store. Alteration appointments will be done during our
             regular store hours. Peak alterations season is May-September so if your wedding
             falls in that time frame you will want to allow extra time for completion.
         When can I pick up my dress? 
            You can pick up your dress at anytime however, most brides leave there dress until
             a day or two before there wedding & after alterations are complete and the dress has
             been steamed and pressed. Once the dress has left the store we are no longer
             responsible for these services. 
         What kind of protection is provided for transportation of the gown when I pick it up?
            We provide a breathable fabric zippered dress bag for your gown at no additional
             charge. 
                          
                               We hope this information has been helpful to you 
                        and we look forward to assisting you in your gown selection.