What to Look for When Selecting a Bridal Salon

By: Cheri Meingasner

Your wedding gown can be one of the biggest purchases you make for your wedding day.  It represents your style and sets the tone for both the ceremony and reception.  But you don’t want the search for the perfect dress to turn into a nightmare, so we came up with a checklist of what to look for when selecting a bridal salon to even try on gowns. 

Customer Service.  This is by far the most important quality in a bridal salon.  Remember: you will be dealing with your salon for nearly a year (fittings, alterations, etc…) so it should feel like home.

Professionalism.  Choose a salon that has pleasing and comfortable yet professional staff.

Product knowledge.  There are so many different styles, colors and fabric options when it comes to wedding gowns, and a well-trained and qualified staff should be knowledgeable in all those areas.  They’re placing a very special order for you and if they don’t appear to know what they’re doing, you might want to think twice before that order comes in wrong.

Location.  Ladies, as fun as you think it is to make a day or days of long distance travel to dress shop, remember to make it convenient.  You will be making several trips over the next several months.

Alterations.  Anyone can select a dress for you.  But can they provide the service you need to make that gown fit you the way it should?  It is very important to select a salon that offers alterations on the premises.

Sample conditions.  If the samples are in disarray and not cared for, would you want that salon to be responsible for your new gown?

Cleanliness of Shop.  Bridal stores need to be fresh and clean environments, for obvious reasons.  If you see dirt, dust or grime anywhere in the store or fitting rooms, you probably don’t want to buy your gown there.

Full Service.  Once you buy your gown, you still need a veil, shoes, jewelry, a garter and all your other wedding accessories.  You are so busy with wedding preparations, and you need the convenience of a salon that offers everything pertaining to wedding apparel.

Reputation.  Do your homework!  Talk to friends and family who may have already gone through the process of dress shopping and ask about their experiences at salons you’re planning to check out.  A good bridal salon has a glowing reputation and a good referral is key.

Budget.  Set a budget, but be realistic and flexible.  If a salon has your gown at a price that is discounted and sounds too good to be true, it usually is.