THE BOUTIQUES
Frequently Asked Questions
Feel free to click on a question below to link to the answer or scroll down do see all questions and answers.
STORE FAQ'S
- Do I need an appointment?
- How long should I expect my visit to last?
- What are the hours your store is open?
- What is your phone number and extensions?
- What is your fax number?
- Where are you located?
- What major credit cards do you accept?
- Do you do alterations?
- Are alterations included in the price of the gown?
- Can I purchase a gown online or over the telephone?
- Do you accept returns?
- Do you have stores in other cities/states?
- Do you have payment options?
- What are your shipping options?
BRIDAL GOWN FAQ'S
- If I am looking through a bridal magazine or on the Internet and am interested in a dress, can I call your store to see if you have it?
- What designers do you carry?
- What is the price range for the dresses in your store?
- Do you offer any discounts or incentives?
- How long does it take for a dress to come in?
- What dress sizes do you carry?
- How do you determine which size I will order?
- Why am I ordering a size 2 sizes BIGGER than my normal size?
- Can I order extra fabric?
- Do you carry petite sizes?
- What colors do the dresses come in?
- How will I select a color for my bridal gown?
- Do all dresses need to be ordered, or can I buy one off the rack?
- What is a trunk show?
- What is a blusher? Do brides still wear blushers?
- Do you have veils that will match my gown?
- What is the trend in headpiece styles?
- What is a "hollow-to-hem" measurement?
- What is a bustle?
- How long do I have to pick up my dress after it comes in? What if I live out of town?
- How do I store my dress until my wedding?
BRIDESMAID'S FAQ'S
- Do you carry bridesmaid's dresses?
- If my bridesmaids live out of town, can I still order their dress through your store?
- How is the size determined for my bridesmaids?
- How do I begin selecting bridesmaids dresses?
- How do I choose a color for my bridesmaids' dresses?
- When should I order my bridesmaids dresses?
- How long will it take for my bridesmaids dresses to be delivered?
- What are the shipping options for bridesmaids gowns?
- Do bridesmaids really have to spend a lot on a dress they may only wear once?
STORE FAQ'S
1.
Do you need an appointment?
No, you do not! Please visit our store any time it is convenient for
you!
2.
How long should I expect my visit to last?
Once you have gone back into the dressing room, expect to spend from
1 -1 1/2 hours with your Personal Bridal Consultant. Any further visits
will take up to an hour.
3.
What are the hours your store is open?
Monday- Thursday: 11:00am - 8:00pm
Friday: 11:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday: 9:30am- 5:00pm
Sundays: 12:00pm - 4:00pm
4.
What is your phone number and extensions?
Our phone number is (513) 821-6622.
Extensions -
TELEPHONE EXTENSIONS |
|||
| Ext. 1 | Hours & Directions | ||
| Ext. 2 | Bridal Department | ||
| Ext. 3 | Bridesmaids, Mothers, Flower Girl |
||
| Ext. 4 | Tuxedo Department | ||
| Ext. 5 | Shoe Department | ||
| Ext. 6 | The Paris Department | ||
| Ext. 7 | Club Dress Prom Department | ||
| Ext. 8 | The Bridal Registry by Camargo | ||
5.
What is your fax number?
Our fax number is (513) 821-6736.
6.
Where are you located?
We are located at 300 West Benson Street, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45215. We
are just 12 miles north of Downtown Cincinnati. Directions
Page
7.
What major credit cards do you accept?
We accept Master Card, Visa and Discover.
8.
Do you do alterations?
Many of our brides travel from distances greater than 100 miles, we
find that they prefer to have their alterations done closer to home.
Because of that fact, we do not offer alterations in our store. We do,
however, have an extensive referral list of reliable seamstresses who
are located throughout the Midwest.
9.
Are alterations included in the price of the gown?
Alterations are an additional charge. Alterations vary depending on
the style of gown, the fabric and detail, and the alterations needed.
We feel that alterations are an important aspect of the bridal gown
experience. Quality is key. Experience has shown that free alterations
result in poor workmanship.
10.
Can I purchase a gown online or over the telephone?
All dresses must be ordered directly from our store, whether in person
or over the phone. However, since all sales are final, we encourage
you to visit our store to make your purchase. This will allow you to
try on all the different styles of gowns to determine which is the most
flattering style for you. You will also be able to utilize the expertise
from our Bridal Consultants and get the full service that you deserve
in preparing for your wedding day. Because it is impersonal and does
not provide appropriate service we do not take orders over the Internet.
11.
Do you accept returns?
All sales are final. This final sales policy is consistent with the
industry standard for bridal & special occasion apparel.
12.
Do you have stores in other cities/states?
We are a local family owned and operated corporation. This allows each
bride to get one-on-one attention and not feel like they are at a self-service,
off-the-rack discounter.
13.
Do you have payment options?
When you order your bridal gown we require a 60% deposit, payable with
cash, check or credit card. The final 40% is due upon picking up your
gown. At the time you pick up your gown we accept cash or credit card.
If you would like to break up your final half and send in monthly payments
you may do this also.
14.
What are your shipping options?
We ship all of our gowns UPS ground, insured and trackable. Someone
must sign for the gown when it arrives at your home or place of business.
We cannot ship outside the continental US, and do not ship within 50
miles of the store. If you are shipping within the state of Ohio, sales
tax and shipping charges are required.
BRIDAL GOWN FAQ'S
1.
If I am looking through a bridal magazine or on the Internet and am
interested in a dress, can I call your store to see if you have it?
Yes, please do! We only need the name of the magazine, issue, page number
and designer of the dress to assist you. If you saw a gown on the Internet,
please have the website address and the internet number.
2.
What designers do you carry?
We carry over 100 designers storewide. A complete list of bridal desingers
can be found on our Bridal Designers
page.
3.
What is the price range for the dresses in your store?
We have dresses for brides in every price range. You can find dresses
for hundreds of dollars and you can find dresses for thousands of dollars.
There is a dress for every bride at Bridal and Formal.
4.
Do you offer any discounts or incentives?
If you purchase your bridal gown at Bridal & Formal we do offer
special discounts off of your bridal gown, headpiece and veil. We also
offer discounts off of bridesmaids, mothers, and flowergirl dresses,
tuxedos, shoes, jewelry, accessories, slips, and undergarments.
5.
How long does it take for a dress to come in?
Depending on the designer and time of year, a dress can take 4-6 months
to come in. However, some designers have quicker delivery times or offer
a rush service.
6.
What dress sizes do you carry?
We have dresses from size 1 to size 44.
7.
How do you determine which size I will order?
How do you determine which size I will order? We have measurement cards
for each designer that we carry. We will take your bust, waist, and
hips measurements and determine where you fall on the size chart. Gowns
are made according to the size chart, not custom to your measurements.
Therefore you may need a few alterations about a month before the wedding,
to make it a perfect fit. Keep in mind that extra size charges apply
to certain sizes, and if you are over 5'10" you may have to order
extra length.
If you are getting measured locally, please print out our Women's
measurement chart and use it to get your measurements taken
8.
Why am I ordering a size 2 sizes BIGGER than my normal size?
Don't panic! Bridal gowns are cut according to a couture size chart
and run smaller than the ready to wear clothing you buy at the mall.
Most brides order a bridal gown 1-2 sizes larger than they usually wear,
and that is normal.
9.
Can I order extra fabric?
Fabric can be ordered from certain manufacturers. Your Bridal Consultant
will be able to check the availability at the time your order your gown.
Keep in mind dyelots may vary, therefore it is not always recommend.
10.
Do you carry petite sizes?
Most designers offer a standard size chart. However, certain styles
are better on certain body types, and your bridal gown consultant would
be happy to help you to find the best cut that works for you.
11.
What colors do the dresses come in?
Dresses are available in many different colors. Some of the most popular
colors are white, ivory, café, rum pink, gold, platinum, and
ice blue.
12.
How will I select a color for my bridal gown?
Many factors come into play when selecting the color of your bridal
gown. Many options are available, and "white" is no longer
the expected norm. The first and most important factor is personal preference.
It is YOUR wedding, do what you want! If you do not have a preference,
you can take into account your hair color and skin tone. There are so
many different shades of white and ivory (and all of the other colors
mentioned above) and they range from cool to warm tones. Choose something
that will compliment you. You can also consider the time of day, time
of year, and location. If you are indoors with candles you may choose
a different color that if you are outside in natural sunlight. And lastly,
you can consider what color you want your bridesmaids to wear. But only
as a last resort, because your dress determines their dresses not vise
versa.
13.
Do all dresses need to be ordered, or can I buy one off the rack?
Many of the dresses in our store do need to be ordered, however we do
have a large off the rack section with hundreds of dresses as well.
14.
What is a trunk show?
Once or twice a year, designers come to our store for a weekend. We
display many of their most popular dresses and the bride has the privilege
to work one-on-one with the designer of her dress! It is a special experience
that brides never forget. Our large trunk show season runs from January
through March. We also have a few trunk shows throughout the summer,
and in November.
15.
What is a blusher?
Do brides still wear blushers? A blusher is the piece of veiling that
covers the bride's face when she walks down the aisle. Some brides choose
to wear a blusher, others do not. It depends on the bride's personal
style and look she wants on her wedding day. .
16.
Do you have veils that will match my gown?
Yes, we do! Many dress designers make veils to match their gowns. We
also offer hundreds of other beautiful veils that will complete the
look of any gown.
17.
What is the trend in headpiece styles?
Hair jewelry! Tiaras detailed with Austrian crystals, freshwater pearls,
Swarovski crystals, and even colored pearls and crystals!! By putting
your jewelry in your hair not only do you create a timeless beautiful
look, but you have a great heirloom to pass on to future generations!
Also, one piece "bun ring" type styles with the veil attached
are out and separates are in! Having a headpiece and veiling separate
offers the bride so many more options when it comes to hairstyles. You
are not locked into one look. You can take your headpiece and veil to
your hair dresser and he/she can create a look that is personal and
perfect for you. Plus you can take off your veil at your reception,
and still wear your headpiece.
18.
What is a "hollow-to-hem" measurement?
On occasion a gown will not be able to be hemmed by your alterations
person. In this case we will take a measurement from the hollow of your
neck to the floor, with you in the shoes and slip you plan on wearing,
and have the manufacturer shorten the dress for you. This does require
an extra charge.
19.
What is a bustle?
Many bridal gowns have trains that are not detachable. The bride's seamstress
adds what is called a bustle when doing the alterations, which simply
means attaching the train to the back of the dress so the bride may
move freely at the reception.
20.
How long do I have to pick up my dress after it comes in?
What if I live out of town? We ask that you pick up your dress thirty
days after receiving the email that your dress has come in. If you live
out of town, we do offer shipping. Please make sure that we have your
current email address.
21.
How do I store my dress until my wedding?
Many places would be fine. Please avoid dampness, sunlight and smoke.
BRIDESMAID'S FAQ'S
1.
Do you carry bridesmaid's dresses?
Yes! Our store has a wide selection of bridesmaid's dresses.
We also carry mother of the bride dresses, flower girl dresses, shoes,
jewelry, accessories and tuxedos for the groom! Please visit each department's
page to find out more!
2.
If my bridesmaids live out of town, can I still order their dress through
your store?
Yes, you can! We offer measurement cards for out of town bridesmaids.
They simply fill out their information and mail or fax it back to us.
It is that simple! Click here for bridesmaid/bridal measurement chart.
3.
How is the size determined for my bridesmaids?
Just like Bridal, we have measurement cards for each designer
that we carry. We will take her bust, waist, and hips measurements and
determine where she falls on the size chart. Gowns are made according
to the size chart, not custom to her measurements. If she lives out
of town we recommend that she have her measurements taken by the professional
seamstress or alterations person who will alter her gown. Measurements
should be taken under street clothes (clothing adds extra inches). Keep
in mind that size runs differently than regular clothes, you will probably
not order your normal size, Also, extra size charges apply to certain
sizes, and if you are over 5'10" you may have to order extra length.
4.
How do I begin selecting bridesmaids dresses?
Once you have chosen your bridesmaids, consider their style
and color preferences as well as their figure types. Princess and Aline
styles are flattering on most body shapes, because the uninterrupted
waist and long vertical seams are slimming. A fitted bodice with a ballgown
skirt will compliment a tiny waist. Many bridesmaid lines offer two-piece
gowns which can be mixed & matched tops and bottoms to flatter each
figure. We have a great selection, with over 1500 bridesmaids dresses
to choose from, at Bridal & Formal.
5.
How do I choose a color for my bridesmaids' dresses?
Choose a color that will compliment your bridal gown, and flatter
your bridesmaids. Colors range in intensity from soft pastels such as
pale pink, to deep muted colors like rose or champagne, to bright vibrant
shades such as claret or ruby red. There are also many different fabrics
to choose from the most popular choices are taffeta, satin, and georgette.
Take into consideration time of year and location. What color is the
carpet or walls? Will the color you are considering clash? These are
just some general things to consider.
6.
When should I order my bridesmaids dresses?
Order your bridesmaids gowns 5-6 months in advance of the wedding.
7.
How long will it take for my bridesmaids dresses to be delivered?
Most bridal gowns take from 3-4 months from when the entire
party is completed. The order will not be placed until all deposits
are in.
8.
What are the shipping options for bridesmaids gowns?
The entire bridesmaids party will be sent to one shipping address.
We can only ship within the Continental USA and not within 50 miles
of the store.
9.
Do bridesmaids really have to spend a lot on a dress they may
only wear once?
The great news for bridesmaids is that the trend in bridesmaids
has moved towards versatile gowns that can be worn again for any special
occasion. Many designers offer simple clean lines, classic looks that
are not as dated as the bridesmaids gowns of the past. The hottest trend
is separates, two-piece dresses, and many you can take the bridesmaid
top and wear it with a cute short skirt or pair of dress pants, or you
can wear the bridesmaid skirt with a fun top. Other options also include,
choosing a specific color and have 2-3 different gowns for your girls
to choose from (this works great with separates) This way you get the
color and gown you want, and they get the shape of gown that they feel
the most flattered and comfortable in. You should definitely listen
to your bridesmaids, but at the same time don't loose sight of your
overall picture.
