I’ve had a lot of brides get in touch with me recently worried about wedding dress shopping once we’re out the other side of Coronavirus. If you have any concerns about the time you have to find ’the one’ and what the process will be read on, and trust me that, you’ll feel much better and more relaxed afterwards.
First things first, don’t panic. I will provide a solution to your problem. If you don’t believe me, have a read of what my brides have said:
Becky was outstanding in her communication, research and advice, straight from initial contact. I was impressed that where other bridal boutiques were unable to find ‘my dress’, Becky made it a personal mission to go above and beyond by liaising with the designer to locate and source the dress. Any nerves I had about trying on dresses were put to rest by Becky’s fun, personable and professional manner – my appointment felt special, I felt special and I am so pleased that Becky and Lavelle Bridal Couture are part of my wedding journey! I would whole-heartedly recommend future brides consult with Becky to find their dream dress x
Andrea - Google Review
Wedding Dress Shopping - When will I be able to have an appointment?
So the short answer to this is that I don’t actually know, but that’s no reason to panic. As with most other people in the country at the moment I’m following the advice from the government and as soon as I can re-open the shop I will do.
What you can do whilst in this period of uncertainty is get yourself ready for your appointment. Have a look online, Pinterest and Instagram are great for this. Save ideas of dresses that you like the look of to a board or collection. I love looking through ideas with brides. Don’t worry, this doesn’t necessarily mean that this is the dress that you‘ll end up with. It does however give us a great starting point.
You can also start creating boards for the bridal look that you want to go for. For example how are you thinking of having you hair, makeup, what style flowers are you choosing, do you know what your bridesmaids might wear?
You can also sign up to have exclusive access to my diary before anyone else. Just fill out your details and as soon as I’m able to open again, you’ll be the first to know and I can get you booked in!
Wedding Dress Shopping - What about ordering my dress? Will it be too late?
No, it’s never too late and there’s always a solution.
When you order your dress with me at Lavelle Bridal Couture I will make sure you have it in plenty of time before your wedding day.
Usually my designers take 4-6 months for dresses to arrive in store from ordering. This can sometimes be longer if there are customisations made to the dress but we’ll discuss this in your appointment. Having said that, the majority of my designers also offer a rush delivery service for a small fee.
If none of the above options are suitable, I have a beautiful selection of sample dresses that are in perfect condition that you can take away on the day.
So don’t worry, buying your wedding dress will still be possible no matter the time restraints. I’ve had brides find their dresses with me who aren’t getting married for another 2 years. I’ve also had brides who are getting married in 2 months! They both found their dream wedding dress with me and didn’t have to compromise anything.
Wedding Dress Shopping - Ok, I’ve found the one. What about alterations?
Regardless of whether you’ve bought a brand new wedding dress or you’ve decided to go for a sample dress, you will still need alterations. I’ve not met a bride yet who hasn’t needed anything altered.
You might just need the hem taking up a few inches or the dress might need to be taken in 4 sizes (if you’ve bought a sample dress). (Nearly) anything is possible.
I have the most incredible seamstress, Lou, who has been altering wedding dresses for 30 years. There’s nothing she hasn’t seen and done.
I usually recommend that you allow 6-8 weeks for your alterations. However we have been known to turn dresses around in a matter of days.
Wedding Dress Shopping - How about accessories?
In my boutique I also sell accessories. Veils which are designed and made in the UK and a beautiful selection of hair accessories. Some of which are one off pieces that I’ve sourced myself. I’m also the exclusive stockist of Devoted By Jessica Jordan - a gorgeous collection of handmade hair accessories.
The veils I stock are made to order but usually only take between 7-10 days from ordering to arrive in store. What I really love about my veils is that they are fully customisable. I’ve ordered different lengths, combined 2 styles in to 1 and even designed my own specially for a bride before. So whatever sort of veil you’ll looking for to go with your wedding dress, I’ll be able to find you the perfect match.
The hair accessories are in the shop can be taken when bought. If you see something you like I would suggest that you buy it as I have had brides before who’ve pondered and then it’s gone the next week!
I see it, I like it, I want it, I got it.
If you read one thing from this blog post, read this:
Above everything else, don’t panic.
Start researching wedding dress styles you like and enjoy it.
Register on my appointment waiting list to be the first to know when you can book your appointment.
There will be a wedding dress for you whether it’s ordered as normal, put on a rush delivery or a pristine sample dress taken on the day.
You‘re alterations will be booked in and turned around as quickly as we need to to make sure your dress fits perfectly for the big day.
We’ll chose and order the finishing touches that will make you really feel like the beautiful bride you are!
If there is ANYTHING else at all that you’re still worried about or that you’d like to ask please do get in touch. I’m here to help and if your question is dress related I will have, or can find, the answers for you.
Above all, keep calm, stay safe and enjoy wedding planning!
I can’t wait to welcome you in to the shop to find your dream wedding dress once this is all over.
Big virtual hugs,
Becky
xx
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