How long in advance do I need to order my dress?
Most designers require anywhere between four to six months to produce your gown, so you should be ordering your gown at least eight months before, It is normal for some Brides to purchase their gown as much as 24 months in advance. Shopping early for your dress will allow you time to choose and make plans for the rest of your wedding.
Beware of discontinuation, we can be notified by the designers of discontinuation at the drop of a hat, and if you do not have a deposit placed on your dream gown you will not be able to have it for your special day.
Do I need an appointment?
Walk-ins are very welcome here at Serenity Brides, we do our very best to accommodate you; but ladies with appointments do get preference over dressing salons and consultants.
It is always best to book an appointment, especially on a Saturday. Shopping for your wedding dress is not like shopping for other clothes. Our trained Bridal Assistants are there to offer you specialist advice and explain the styles and fabrics. It is our job to help you find the dress of your dreams.
Your assistant will ask if you would like help getting into the dresses, we are happy to help but will not push your comfort zone, It’s our responsibility not only to make you feel special, just enjoy the attention!
Do you charge for appointments?
No!
How many people should I bring?
Too many contradicting opinions can confuse you, we suggest you bring a trusted family member; such as your Mum or Sister and your best friend.
You must always remember that this is your decision to make; and listen to your own instincts about what dress makes you feel special.
Once you have made your decision you can always bring back others who may want to see your dress, so they don’t feel left out at all.
What is your price range?
Have a budget in mind before you come shopping. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to tell us you have a budget in mind.
Don’t be tempted to try on dresses “just for fun” falling in love with a dress that’s out of your price range can break your heart or break the budget. A little over budget is ok but don’t go crazy.
Our main collection gowns range in price from £400 to £3,780. We have something for every budget and every taste.
What size do I order?
At measurements stage (8 months before your wedding) you will be called in for measurements. We will take the measurements of your bust, waist and hips. Using the designer’s size chart we will discuss sizing with you and agree on an appropriate size.
Size charts do not match the sizes of general high street stores, so do not be worried if you order a size that is not your normal size. It’s unlikely that your measurements will perfectly match the chart; the goal is to order the dress as close to right as possible and then make alterations for it to fit perfectly.
How do I pay for my dress?
We have many payment options available to ease the financial side of getting married. If your wedding is over 14 months in advance you can place a 25% deposit. Another 25% will be due at measurement stage (8 months before the wedding). And 50% is due when your dress turns up in store.
If your wedding is less than 14 months away, the deposit required is 50% with 50% due when your dress turns up in store.
We do offer a payment plan option, this is totally interest free but an admin fee of £30 is due when paying your initial payment. A standing order must also be set up. Please call us on 01206 577756 to discuss this more.
I’m planning on losing weight, does this make a difference?
A rule of thumb we use is that generally a dress can be reduced in size by 3 sizescan be expanded a size depending on seam allowance. Never order a size smaller in anticipation of losing weight. We cannot stress this enough!
What happens if I need alterations?
We have an in house seamstress that you will make an appointment with closer to your wedding date. She is a qualified tailoress and has been working with wedding dresses for many years.