Ask Pat: When should I order my veil and accessories?

Dear Pat: I have chosen my wedding gown and have made an appointment this weekend to return to the boutique to purchase it, but was wondering if I needed to also purchase my veil and accessories then? I’m not sure how long accessories take to come in. Any info you could provide would be helpful!

Great question! Most accessories take at least 4 months after being ordered to arrive, so you do not necessarily need order them at the same time as the dress (most brides typically order the dress nine months before the wedding). Just keep in mind that choosing the perfect veil and jewelry without having the dress on to see how it all looks together can be difficult, especially if you want to be sure the color of the veil matches the shade of white or ivory you ordered your dress in. After you purchase the dress the next time you’ll have the chance to put it on again is likely during your first alterations appointment a few weeks before your wedding–by that time it might be too late to order anything without paying extra to “rush” the order.

Have a question you’re dying to ask a bridal stylist? Just email pat@sealedwithakissbridal.com, and one our stylists will be happy to help. Your question might even make it to the blog!

Ask Pat: I saw a dress online that I love, how can I track it down?

Dear Pat: I’ve been to a few bridal shops now and have a couple styles I really like, but a couple months ago I saw a picture of a dress online that I really loved and I just can’t get it out of my head. I know the designer and style and have called a few local places looking for it, but they don’t carry that designer. What’s the best way to go about tracking it down?

The best place to start is the designer’s website! Most designers have a page where they list their retailers, or stores that carry their designs. Look for the retailers closest to you and give them a call. If they don’t have the particular style you’re looking for, it couldn’t hurt to ask if they could get it. Often times designers have a loaner gown program, where they can send a requested dress to one of their retailers for a limited time–just keep in mind that there’s sometimes a charge for this service. Also ask if they’ll be hosting any trunk shows by this designer, since they will often be sent a variety of designs by that designer that they do not typically have in store. They might not be able to guarantee that the dress will be part of the trunk show, but often there’s a good chance!

Have a question you’re dying to ask a bridal consultant? Email your questions to pat@sealedwithakissbridal.com and one of our experienced consultants will be more than happy to help. Your question might even make it on the blog!