top brands are sold only through authorized retail bridal salons

The Internet is a wonderful means to discover what’s out there or narrow down your choices, but we strongly warn you to purchase your dress only at an authorized retail store.  We cannot emphasize this enough.

We in the industry have heard countless stories from desperate brides or bridesmaids who purchased cheap knock-offs; defective products; previously worn, ill-fitting, or wrong-colored garments with inferior materials with shoddy workmanship, or worse.  These "businesses" are usually located somewhere overseas and set up numerous online storefronts under names that sound like top brands, or fraudulently claim to represent them, while actually working from homes, P.O. boxes, and even the trunks of cars.  Worse yet, many brides never received any shipment and were forced to scramble in a last-minute panic to try to find a dress.

Many manufacturers are pursuing criminal and legal action against these fraudulent sources, so don't be misled.  Buying from an unauthorized dealer can ruin your wedding day and cost you more than you bargained for.  Here are some of the deceptions and outright lies:

They can save you money because they do not have overhead expenses from operating an actual store

They can offer big discounts because they do not have to stock sample dresses

They have been working with bridal gown manufacturers for years and can get you a designer gown for less than the retail price

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.

Also, since these sources do not deal honestly, there is the great danger of your credit card or bank card being charged fraudulently, as has happened to many unfortunate brides, in addition to being stuck with an inferior or counterfeit garment!

Lastly, not all seamstresses are experienced in bridal alternations. So when it comes to purchasing and getting fitted for your dress, you’ll be thankful you trusted an authorized retail dealer.

What to expect from a legitimate, authorized retail bridal shop:

• A physical, storefront location   • Signs and decals indicating an authorized retailer   • A large selection of manufacturer sample gowns and dresses   • A caring, professional sales staff who will personally help you find the perfect dress for your budget   • A full range of bridal services   • References & Testimonials

Your Assurance

If you have any doubt about the validity of a business, contact the manufacturer directly and see if they are in fact authorized to sell their products. Do your homework, and you will have no regrets!

Your wedding gown and wedding day are far too important to risk the lure of a cheap price.  Trust your gown and your day to a genuine, caring, authorized retail professional!

______________________