Shopping Tips

Preparing for your bridal appointment will make your experience most enjoyable.

Understand that most bridal dresses take 5-9 months to order and you need to leave time for alterations. If you are traveling this may shorten your lead time. We recommend you purchase your dress no later than 7-9 months before your wedding.

Set your budget. Ensure that you articulate your dress budget to your consultant. Remember you need an allowance for alterations, and accessories also. Dresses at our salon range from $1500-$8000 and can increase depending on alterations and custom add-ons.

Please bring a strapless bra and appropriate undergarments. These elements, while not essential, can assist in giving you a more complete appreciation of how the dress will look.

Your appointment at Ashley and Alexandria’s will last one hour. As our store aims to provide an intimate experience we ask that you limit your guests to 3 people, if possible, as this helps in optimizing your experience. Shopping with a large group may become stressful and overwhelming. Your guests should know what is important to you. Fabric, silhouette, dress details etc. It may be helpful to prep your entourage and let them know what type of feedback is helpful.

Come prepared to purchase your dress. About 92% of our brides buy their dress on their initial visit. A 50% deposit is required at the time of purchase.

While it is important to keep an open mind it is also very helpful for brides to bring along pictures of dresses they like and know why they like them. Perhaps every dress you’ve chosen has a sweetheart neckline, or a full skirt. These will help your stylist in picking only dresses that align with your wants and needs.

Finally…Relax, enjoy, and have fun!