Ahhh, the internet. It makes life so much easier– until you try to dress your bridal party using a third party website. Many brides/bridesmaids will try to save a few bucks by doing this; but it’s the serious consequences that come along with online ordering that will cost you way more than you “bargained” for!
One of our favorite lines of bridesmaid dresses, Watters & Watters, has a great explanation of some of the problems that can arise from using an unauthorized dealer or website posing as legitimate dealers:
What they will tell you: They can save you money because they do not have overhead expenses by operating a store-front.
Beware: Watters (and other designers) only sell garments to full service bridal salons, like Solutions Bridal, that can provide you the utmost in service and personal care you need. Authorized retailers are known and loved for offering honest advice and delivering on their promises. We’ll help you find a dress that fits your budget and makes your day.
You may also come across a “buying service” that is ordering directly from the designers when they are really buying your gown through a third party.
What they will tell you: They can offer big discounts because they do not have to stock sample dresses.
Beware: An authorized retailer will carry samples of the collections in their store for you to see, touch and try on so you know what looks good and feels good on your body (and your bridesmaids’).
What they will tell you: They have been working with bridal gown manufacturers for years and can get you a designer gown for less than the retail price.
Beware: They can promise you all sorts of savings. But what you don’t get is a promise that when something is wrong with the fabric, color, size, or when they miss your delivery date all together, you could be left with the stress and expense of a last minute catastrophe. There are also charges and services to be aware of with internet purchases, such as shipping, pressing, and unprofessional alterations. This can often cost you more than you would have paid if you bought at full price through a full service bridal salon.
Solutions Bridal is an official retailer for nearly a dozen different bridesmaid dress designers. That means we are authorized to deal directly with the designers– which means we can get confirmation on the important details like ship dates, fabric and color changes, style numbers and much more. So save yourself the headache of the “bargain hunt.” Come on in to one of our locations– bring your girls, and enjoy a fun filled day of bridesmaid dress shopping!
