Category Archives: wedding dresses

Having A Minimony? We’ve Got You!

May 31, 2020 darianna Leave a comment

Out of the darkness of a pandemic comes one of the cutest terms we’ve ever heard: the minimony.

If you were forced to postpone your wedding, you may already be considering having a minimony. Many couples are doing this and if you look on the bright side of having to move your wedding date, it’s two celebrations to look forward to!

A minimony is simply a smaller ceremony on your original wedding date with fewer people. Perhaps at home in the backyard or another outdoor setting, still very much a wedding ceremony only on a smaller scale. The “sequel” wedding is your rescheduled future date, where the big party and celebration can be had with all your guests in person.

If you had to postpone your wedding, you already have your dress for the big day. If you are having a minimony, that dress probably isn’t going to work for a small wedding in the backyard. However, this is still a wedding ceremony and needs to be complete with an appropriate dress… but…

You don’t want to spend thousands of dollars again. Where do you look? With us, of course!

Many of our brides are in this position and some told us they are ordering dresses online only to send them right back. They think they will work because they are cheap, and when the dress arrives, they realize why it was so cheap. They don’t look or feel anything like the online photos and are incredibly disappointing.

We are happy to be able to help. Many of our brides are already booked to come back when we reopen on June 5th to take a look at our incredible sample rack.

These are high-quality designer dresses and are available at substantial discounts, very comparable to online pricing. This allows the brides to see them in person, try them on at our store, save time, save money, and get right to the seamstress for easy and quick alterations.

Beautiful Voyage dress for outdoor garden wedding

And really, who doesn’t want two dresses? Show different sides of you! For instance, perhaps the original dress is a fancy, sparkly ballgown complete with cathedral veil and tiara, but the backyard dress is a sweet, bohemian lacy one that works with a flower crown.

Or maybe the original dress is a satin, but the minimony one is crepe – both are classic plain fabrics, but crepe doesn’t have the weight or the shine which makes it a bit more appropriate for a smaller, summer gathering outdoors.

Gorgeous Morilee crepe dress with lace train

For the grooms, a full on tuxedo may not fit the bill either for a minimony. We have this covered as well.

Consider a suit or pants with a vest or suspenders and no jacket. The accessory colors we have allows you to put together the perfect look whether casual or ultra formal.

Long or bow tie can change the look, do what works!

Maybe a lighter color, try a sand or cornflower blue. We have them all!

Cornflower blue, wear with or without jacket

Whatever you decide, give us a call. If you’re doing the minimony and/or waiting for that one big day, we’ve got you! We offer great pricing for wedding dresses, along with suits and tuxedos, or if you just need accessory pieces. Make your appointment here!

wedding dresses, wedding planning

How To Say Yes When You Won’t Stop Looking

May 11, 2020 darianna Leave a comment

Have you asked any of these questions:

“Do brides say yes on the first time out?’

“Do brides really buy the first dress they tried on?”

“Do brides ever buy without going to other stores?”

“Do brides buy without asking all their friends what they think?”

The answer to all of these is yes. In this blog we will discuss the bride who can’t say yes and if it resonates with you, hopefully our advice will help you through saying yes with confidence.

The most challenging bride is the one who cannot stop looking. She brings with her a group of eight on a Saturday morning, tries on 15 dresses, finds one she loves. She cries, everyone loves it… and then the question: “Are you saying yes to this dress?” She looks completely confused and says, “No, I can’t buy yet/at the first store/until I sleep on it/without my grandmother/without looking elsewhere.”

Aren’t you looking to say yes? Why did you bring this group to give so much attention and love to you and then say no when you are crying and they are so supportive?

Bride continues to shop all day, ending exhausted and confused with a list of maybes and one she really loves. She makes more appointments at other stores.

This bride refuses to say yes for months.

She finally makes a return appointment to retry the dress on that she loves, the one that made her cry, the one she can’t stop thinking about. She obsesses over photos, looks at it online, gets opinions of strangers on wedding websites.

She brings her group back again, although fewer attend. She still loves the dress.

“I really think maybe this is it, but did you get any new ones in that I haven’t tried?”

I ask, “How many stores have you been to? How many dresses have you tried on?”

Some brides tell me they’ve gone to 10-12 stores, even some in different states. That is at least 100 dresses tried on. One hundred wedding dresses and a bride still can’t pull the trigger. Not only that, her group is tired (“Just get it already!”) and the bride is stressed out (“Don’t push me into making this decision!”) It has become a chore. Instead of that first perfect moment to say yes with the emotion and the hugs and the support, it is now a frustrating disappointment because you are over a month into looking and still can’t say yes to the dress you came back to.

Why?

“I’m not getting the reaction I want.” – But you did the first time and ignored it…

“I don’t know if my fiance will like it.” – Your fiance loves you, and will love you in whatever dress you choose…

“What if I don’t like it later?” – You loved it the first time and you still do…

“I’m worried I might find something I like better.” – After 100 dresses, you think #105 will be the one when you’re back in the original dress?

“I don’t make decisions quickly.” – You immediately knew the venue, your bridal party, and you immediately said yes to the marriage proposal…

At some point, you need to be confident in your dress decision and move on with the planning. It’s your day and you will be radiant in the dress you choose!

The dress should make you feel gorgeous, you never want to take it off. You want to wear it to work, out to lunch, everywhere. When you find that dress, SAY YES. Stop looking because you won’t find one to beat it. If there is a dress you compare all others to, that’s the one. It doesn’t matter if your to-be sister in law didn’t react the way you wanted, it’s not her wedding or her dress.

You now must also consider the health implications of going to so many stores.

Our advice is always the same to brides who call themselves “indecisive” but made many decisions already with no problem:

1. Don’t bring a large group. If you want to show them, bring them to your try on, or plan a reveal to show them what YOU chose. They will cry when they see you in it! Many stores now limit the number of guests due to social distancing so that decision could be made for you.

2. Limit the choices. It’s like going to a restaurant with a 10-page menu… you went in wanting the steak but now you might want something else, because it might taste better, even though you really want the steak…

3. Be your unique self. Don’t buy a dress that others love on you but you don’t, one that reminds you of everyone else’s, or because it’s trendy now. Find unique designers or ones you can customize if needed.

4. Trust yourself. The dress you love is the right one and everyone will love you in it.

5. Buy from a reputable store. Read reviews! Are they known for great customer service, responsiveness, and truthfulness? Do they adhere to new laws and regulations? (WE ARE, AND WE DO!)

Yes, brides do say yes on the first day out, at the first store, to the first dress, without dozens of opinions from the people with them. You can, too! Let us help you enjoy the bridal appointment process and trust yourself!

Trends, wedding dresses

Do You Want Sleeves On Your Wedding Dress?

May 8, 2020 darianna Leave a comment

At the beginning of May, usually that winter chill is out of the air. I should be happily in a tee shirt right now but instead it’s a sweatshirt and my hands are freezing. This made me think of brides searching for their perfect dress and whether it has sleeves!

Meadow by Madi Lane

Sleeves on wedding dresses are gorgeous. There are many different versions now, too, like off the shoulder, detachable, illusion, illusion with lace and buttons, full lace, etc. Look at your Pinterest board – even if you aren’t considering sleeves I’ll bet you have one pinned.

Trying on dresses with sleeves is very interesting. Some brides know that’s what they want and do not try any on without them.

Others think they want them but when they try on they find them restricting of movement, itchy, irritating, or all three, and they move on to others perhaps with a cap sleeve or smaller strap.

Then there is the bride who never considered them who tries on and falls in love! It’s one of the “game changers” in dress hunting that we love!

With sleeves you will want to consider:

– Will you be married in the heat? If you are getting married outside in the sun or on the beach, these may not be for you. Think of your ceremony, play that out in your head, does it make sense? You can always try a dress like this, Lennon by Beloved Bridal with removable sleeves:

– Do you have sensitive skin? If a dress bothers you at all during the trying on phase, that is not your dress! This applies to all aspects, not just sleeves. You will be in it for hours, it needs to feel comfortable all around.

– Are you a “throw your hands in the air” type dancer? If so, unless you have detachable sleeves, you wont be throwing them very high. Isabella by Kitty Chen is an absolutely gorgeous show stopper, but you’re not going to raise your arms too high in this dress:

– Is your wedding in the winter or a colder location? Sleeves are perfect for you, but they will not keep you “warm”. Unless you have a heavier lined sleeve – which further diminishes mobility – you may still need a fur wrap or cape if your ceremony is outdoors or for outside pictures.

For the best of both worlds, ask us for options like detachable on many dresses, or a pretty sheer matching jacket. Or we can have them made by our seamstresses at your fitting if you order the dress you love without them but are still undecided. We have capes, jackets, and fur wraps as well to customize your perfect look! Make your appointment with us here!

Wedding Dress Fabrics, wedding dresses

Three Things To Love About Crepe Wedding Dresses

May 8, 2020 darianna Leave a comment

Whether it’s a body-hugging mermaid or a romantic A-line, crepe dresses are sophisticated and timeless. No doubt you’ve heard about (and pinned) a few dresses in this amazing fabric, so in this blog we will go into more detail.

Crepe is a fabric that was traditionally made from silk or wool which is what gives some their “bumpy” appearance, but can now can be made from almost any fiber. Crepe georgette is very popular in dresses now because the georgette adds elasticity.

Crepe types vary from thin and lightweight to thick and heavyweight. Wedding dresses typically fall somewhere in between. They definitely aren’t thick and heavy because they would lose their beautiful drape and flow, however, they are not thin because then the dress could be somewhat see-through.

Wedding dresses in this fabric are not always lined underneath, but if they are it is usually with a satin or a charmeuse therefore need to have some thickness for proper structure and draping. A little thickness is also what gives crepe our first thing we love:

Hug Those Curves! You work hard to keep that body of yours in shape and it shows at every angle in a dress like Fallon by Madi Lane below, a stunning crepe dress with buttons down the back accentuating the assets! The incredible fit with a little mix of a georgette fabric gives not only the perfect silhouette but also allows the stretch needed to sit, walk, and do those perfect dance moves. Not to mention it will knock your fiance out all night long.
Smooth and Comfortable. Are there any two better adjectives to describe a wedding dress? Besides the ones already used above? Smooth always looks classic and sophisticated, clean and timeless. Comfortable is not always easy to get in a dress. When a dress has lace and/or beading, multiple layers of crinoline, a fitted high structured satin, it can be a long day wearing it. Scratchy, heavy, tight – none of these describe crepe. This fabric is ideal for sensitive skin as well.
The Color. Whether you choose white or ivory, the richness in this fabric is like no other. The whites are clean and bright with none of the “harshness” of other fabrics, the ivories are creamy and warm. Some crepe dresses are only made in one color so ask your consultant if there are swatches.

Here are some other crepe dresses in our store that brides love:

Madi Lane Finley

Jessica Morgan Fantasy

FANTASY – Wedding Dresses | Bridal Gowns | KITTYCHEN COUTURE

Morilee Saskia

Madi Lane Ferne

Beloved by Casablanca Honor

Style BL307 Honor | Beloved By Casablanca Bridal

Jessica Morgan March

Make your appointment here to see these and many more! We can’t wait to meet you!

wedding dresses

On-A-Budget? Consider Off-the-Rack

May 4, 2020 darianna Leave a comment

Very rarely does a bride come to us with “no budget”. Most every bride prepares her budget first and makes her choices staying within.

Our policy at Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo is to choose dresses at or under the bride’s budget, however, we also let the bride and her party choose dresses as well. When a dress is chosen over budget – sometimes significantly over – we get the “Just let her try it on for fun” comment. It’s never “fun” when a bride falls in love with a dress over budget.

We make sure everyone knows before the bride tries on a dress over budget! Let’s say bride wants to stay at or under $1,000, but Aunt Karen picked a $2,000 dress “for fun”. When bride tries it on, she understands the difference in quality, structure, and fit of a $2,000 dress. It looks and feels amazing. Now she goes back to $1,000 or less and guess what? She doesn’t like them. They don’t feel the same, the beading doesn’t sparkle as much, the lace is scratchy…. things she would never have noticed otherwise. Not much fun. So bride either ups her budget or Aunt Karen needs to open her wallet.

There is one other option, however… an off-the-rack purchase.

This simply means you can buy the dress you tried on at a discount! You are buying the sample dress. Depending on the dress, that discount could be substantial. Say that $2,000 dress was off-the-rack at $1,350… would that be worth it? Is it close to your size and not needing much in alterations? Did you look it over, check underneath, find it in great condition and clean? Grab that discount and claim that dress and take her home!

We have sold many dresses off-the-rack and given brides the dress of their dreams – one they never thought they could afford. Or, let’s say the dress ordered new is $1,000 but the off-the-rack discount is $750, that’s a deal!

Almost every active sample dress we have is available at an off-the-rack discount. All of our discontinued dresses (meaning they are not able to be ordered) are heavily discounted every day. Brides on a serious budget love our discontinued sample section! We have discounted veils and belts, too.

Sometimes it doesn’t pay to do off the rack if alterations are going to eat up that savings. If the dress is a 16 and bride is an 8, my suggestion would be to pay for a new one that will fit. If the dress is a 16 and you are 12/14/16, then say yes for less!

Brides also benefit from our “sample sales”. We hold these several times per year to help clear out inventory and make room. These prices can go much lower and definitely deserve consideration.

A sample sale is not a trunk show, those are when the designer has an additional 12-24 dresses in the store for a few days only. You cannot purchase a trunk show dress off the rack.

We will always have brides who will want/need to order a new dress, whether for size, color, customizations, etc., but we are not like other stores pushing you up in budget and then pressuring/scaring you to buy. Brides tell us what consultants at other stores have said and it is outrageous the lies that are told to get your money. Our staff is not on commission and therefore always works to get you exactly what you want regardless of your budget. Make sure to visit us and make your appointment here!

wedding dresses

The Strapless Dress: What To Consider

April 26, 2020 darianna Leave a comment

A few years ago, the strapless dress is all you saw. Typically it was a strapless fit and flare that looked great on all figures. As styles and trends change, so have the necklines, but strapless remains a very popular choice.

There are, however, details to be considered before saying “yes!” to a strapless dress. Most brides (and their guests) will agree it is not ideal for your dress to be falling down during your wedding. This is the main complaint of a strapless dress. This is able to be solved by the following:

The Construction of the Bodice – In order for a strapless dress to stay fitted, it must have a corset and/or boning throughout. The weight of the dress needs to stay on the ribs and hips, and the boning will keep the top stiff and in place.
The Cups – You must have the appropriate fitting cups. Too small will flatten and push you up and out. Too large will cause gapping. Neither are desired. Your seamstress will be able to assist you with this! If you are large busted, it is advised to go up in size in order for the appropriate cups to be sewn in and then taken in where necessary to ensure a tight fit.
The Neckline – Strapless dresses have several different neckline shapes: sweetheart, scoop, or straight across. Consider your bust size when choosing. If you are large busted and choose a sweetheart, make sure the dip is not too low and the sweetheart comes up high enough and goes just under your arm. You may want to consider something more modest such as a scoop which will give you additional support. Same if you are small busted as a sweetheart tends to have extra room between you and the dress. Alterations can usually fix this but it comes at a cost.
Strapless with Low or Illusion Back – These dresses are beautiful and can be a real “WOW”, yet are the most difficult we have seen to fit properly. A low back has no support at all and is nearly impossible to stay in place as you twist and move. An illusion back gives very little support, leaving the front to be fitted by itself. Consider having the back lined or you probably will be pulling it up regardless of alterations. There are undergarments that can help with these dresses, however it adds an additional layer between you and the dress that will require additional alterations.

Your wedding dress is the most important garment you will ever buy. It should be memorable and reflect your personality! You do not want your photos or your guests reminding you of dress malfunctions. Trust your stylist if she’s giving you advice or suggestions… We often have brides who fall in love with a dress that we know may cause problems or cost hundreds in alterations because of an ill-fitting top. Don’t be afraid to speak up! There are many ways to make the dress of your dreams fit your vision and flatter your figure to the fullest.

Uncategorized, wedding dresses

Making Your Wedding Dress Your Own

December 2, 2019 darianna Leave a comment

From the moment a bride steps into our store, it is our job to help her envision herself up at the altar in her dress on her big day. The questions of “how are you going to do your hair” or “what kind of jewelry are you going to wear” always arise when the bride gets close to saying “yes!” to her dress. These questions help the bride develop her sense of self and highlight her own unique style.

If you are a bride struggling to find a bridal look that feels like “yours”, we have some tips for you!

DRESS

While some brides will come in and find many dresses that they love, we do encounter some brides who have been searching to no avail, or brides who can’t commit and have become frustrated with the process. This is when we try to help the bride construct the dress that she has been dreaming of!

One such way is by adding straps. We have seen an increase in the number of brides who do not want strapless dresses, but try one on and think it would be the one if only it had straps. We have all kinds of detached straps (from spaghetti to full on long sleeves) that we love to play with to help brides determine which kind they like best! From cap illusion with lace and beading to match the dress, to simple plain or beaded straps, to the dreamy off shoulder romantic boho look, being able to customize the straps gives brides the ability to create a one-of-a-kind dress that is all her own.

Another addition that can really make a dress unique to its owner is adding a detachable skirt. This option is perfect for the bride who is in love with both fuller and fitted skirts and does not want to compromise. It really lets the bride make a statement with her dress while allowing more of her style to shine. Keep it fitted underneath the princess skirt overtop!

BELTS

Adorning your dress with a belt is another way to help your personality shine through on your dress! Brides who like some sparkle have plenty of options when it comes to beaded belts. Many belts also tie in pearls which gives you flexibility in the jewelry you have to choose from, as well.

There is also the option to add a belt that does not have as much sparkle, but floral elements instead. Floral belts are perfect for the brides who are having an outdoor wedding and want the elements of nature to be tied into her look! For brides who have a color scheme they love, adding a colored sash to the waist of their dress might be a great option.

Whether you choose a color to match the bridal party or want to accent your ivory dress with a touch of champagne, this is the perfect way to have your personality shine through on your big day.

JEWELRY

Jewelry is a very personal touch with an incredible power to make brides feel like their style is all there. Many brides will use pieces of jewelry that was passed down by relatives as their “something old”. This familial tie-in brings in a sense of belonging when being in a wedding dress can feel a little unnatural.

Some brides will begin to picture themselves with their hair all done and consider the different kinds of earrings, necklaces, or bracelets they might want to wear with the dress they love. When a bride feels like her dress alone may not be enough to fit her style, the flexibility with jewelry can often times complete and personalize the overall look.

SHOES

Once the bride feels like herself in the dress, the next option is shoes! Many brides tell us that their need to be comfortable on their wedding day is a top priority and will opt for flat shoes or some with a small heel. We have seen many brides who even choose bridal sneakers! Kate Spade and Keds are two brands that have gorgeous sparkly sneakers with silky laces and are guaranteed to be comfortable while the happy couple dances the night away.

Some of our awesome edgy brides have even chosen Doc Marten’s or combat boots as their wedding day shoe!

For our girls who have a country or rustic theme, cowboy boots are a great way to tie the theme into their style. Shoes are also a great way to tie colors into the look. We have had brides who have used their shoes at their “something blue” or as an accent to their color scheme, and it looks great!

Like most accessories, there are plenty of shoes to choose from that will allow a bride to express her individuality through her wedding attire. Just a word of advice… go for comfort…

VEIL / HEADPIECE

The easiest way to add to a bridal look is with a veil. If you’re a bride looking for a little spunk or old Hollywood glam, a birdcage veil might be a great option for you!

For a bride saying yes to a dress that is a little more on the simple side, dressing it up with a cathedral veil (photo above) with a lace trim border can add a bit of drama without the commitment of having so much detail. There are hundreds of veil options to choose from between the length and detail (lace, beading, corded edge) that can help bring your vision to life.

For those brides who do not want a veil, you still have plenty of options! Our bohemian brides love to tie aspects of flowers into their style. We have seen numerous brides opt for flower crowns or weave flowers into their hair. Some ballroom or Disney weddings call for a sparkly tiara or a blingy headband!

Here at Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo, we have tons of accessories! An amazing selection of veils, belts, headbands, combs, and clips for brides to choose from to fit their individual style. And our stylists are phenomenal at offering options that you may have not considered yourself. Make your appointment and let’s make your dress YOUR dress!

wedding dresses

Bridal Myths: Exposed!

May 20, 2019 darianna Leave a comment

We’ve all heard urban myths and legends. Some are funny like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster. Some are creepy like Bloody Mary; the Woman in White and Area 51. Yet, even though we know these myths are based on nothing more than rumor and exaggeration, they still persist.

Like any other segment of society, the bridal world has its own share of myths, like:

“I will cry when I find my perfect dress;” “I will know my perfect dress as soon as I see it;” or “It’s best to bring everyone with me to my bridal appointments.”

Well, much like Bigfoot and the Woman in White, not all tales are true, especially in the bridal world. Here are a few of the tales I’ve heard over the years.

I will cry when I find my perfect dress

Not always! When you know it’s your dress, we call that “the Moment”. Many brides do have the Moment with tears! Some completely break down as the reality hits (OMG, I’m getting MARRIED!) Some experience a combination of a laugh-cry type thing. Others light up, smile ear to ear and say YES with a cheer! And then there are brides who simply know and confidently say, I love it. This is my dress, this is the one.

We love the brides who say, “I’m sure I won’t cry, I’m not like that.” When those tears come, whoa boy. It’s for real and there is no denying she found the ONE.

You may not cry, but you WILL have your Moment. Trust that process. You’ll know. Not a myth.

I will know my dress as soon as I see it

Myth. As any experienced Consultant will tell you, there is a process to finding your dream dress. It’s not a matter of just finding the prettiest gown in the shop and calling it a day. There are many factors that should go into finding the dress for your special day:

What silhouette flatters your figure most? Where is the wedding taking place? What fabrics are you most comfortable in? What type of wedding are you having? Indoor or outdoor? Day or evening? Huge celebration or an intimate affair? How much detail work are you looking for? Do you want to deal with a train or would you rather have a cathedral veil for drama? What price point are you comfortable with?

All these answers are to be found in one dress and that requires a thoughtful plan of action. You will no doubt put on numerous dresses that are breathtaking and fulfill your vision. But, does it check off all your “must haves”?

Consistently, we have brides end an appointment with TWO favorite dresses which they need to weigh against each to make that final choice. While it does occasionally happen that a bride will click with her gown right away, more times than not, there isn’t a definitive “ta-dah” moment until the bride gives it much consideration against the others.

This is why we will encourage you to try different styles, silhouettes, and fabrics during your appointment. Our goal is to guide and support you as you navigate through a sea of white and ivory to find the gown of your dreams. Just don’t be disheartened if you don’t know your dress based on a first look.

To find my perfect dress, I will drive to dozens of places and try everything on to be confident in my decision.

Myth. While this sounds like an excellent research plan, I can tell you from experience that this will leave a bride stressed and frustrated. The much-anticipated, incredibly exciting “Say Yes” moment becomes a chore.

With the Internet’s assistance, you will find thousands of dresses with similar silhouettes, features and colors that you will be trying to cram into your brain. Even the most detail-oriented bride will buckle under the weight of all the information being thrown at her by Google, her friends and the Consultants she encounters at each place she visits near and far.

Brides come in to see me with endless photos of gowns they’ve tried. Constant refrains are:

“Wait, why did we keep this picture?” “I don’t remember what was on the skirt/bodice that we liked…” “Was this the one Mom liked?” “Is this the same dress we tried on at the other place?” And our very favorite: “Wait, didn’t we all hate this dress?”

Short story: I personally worked with a Bride who visited 12 different salons across the Tri-State area. She couldn’t say whether or not she liked the dresses she was trying on with me. Every time she came out in a dress, she was riddled with questions and information: “The other one was better on your figure.” “Now, do you like the beading on this one or this one (showing her a photo).” “Show her how this bustles.” “Let’s put a veil on and see how you feel.” “Maybe you should try something plain, you liked a plain one at the other store last week.” “Let me go pull another one I saw for you.”

She just broke down crying because after trying on literally over one hundred dresses, she was miserable. She didn’t like anything anymore. The constant questions comparing every dress to something else she tried on previously had her too stressed her out to continue. There were TOO MANY. Let your Consultant curate a beautiful selection for you and start from there.

Keep it simple. Find a couple reputable stores who will make you a priority. Visit their websites, research the lines they carry and price points. Read their reviews. (Read our reviews here!) Make your appointment and try on gowns that you know will work both aesthetically and financially for your wedding. There is enough stress involved in wedding planning, be strategic in your dress search.

The more expensive the dress, the better it is

Myth Myth Myth Myth and Myth.

In my years as a Consultant, I have been privileged to work in different parts of the country and at different salons. I have worked with many top of the line designers as well as median designers. While it is true that most gowns are priced according to the quality of fabric, lace and embroidery used in a design, it is also true that you are paying for the privilege of wearing a specific designer’s creation.

There is absolutely no reason for a bride to overpay for a beautifully designed and well constructed gown. Today’s textiles are being manufactured with specific purpose and your comfort in mind. And, thankfully, these fabrics are not as expensive as their predecessors! Silk jersey and matte satins are being utilized by bridal gown manufacturers for more wrinkle free wear and lighter weight gowns. Many times, these modern fabrics provide a lower price point for the consumer.

Although there are still designers that command a premium price due to name recognition, I guarantee that no one will know if the appliques on your dress were sewn on by hand or if they were machine stitched.

The Consultant will try to push higher priced dresses to boost her commission

While I would love to qualify this as a total falsehood, I can’t. If a store works on commission, this is true.

The reality is that commissions are incentives to sell, whether it’s a higher priced dress, or old stock they want to move out. Unfortunately, this can lead to high pressure sales tactics and even outright lies.

Yes, in the past, I have seen commission driven Consultants skirt the truth in order to close a sale. Sadly, these Consultants were poorly compensated and to make up for the unfair pay scale, a Consultant was forced to boost their compensation with commission. So, while I cannot entirely dismiss commission boosting as a total fabrication in the bridal industry, I can tell you how the Consultants at Darianna Bridal differ from them.

Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo is a family-run, community based business. We are invested personally and professionally in the area. Our Consultants are compensated for their expertise, knowledge and professionalism allowing us to forego the problematic commission based sales paradigm. Our families live and work in the community that we serve. We are invested in our neighbors and want their experience here at Darianna to be a joyous one.

Whether you say yes to a brand new dress or a marked down bargain, we are thrilled to be part of your wedding… and the consultant makes the same amount of money. There is – and never will be – a commission structure in our store.

A Bridal Salon will order the dress too big so that they can make money off of the alterations

This is another one that cannot be completely disputed.

Brides need not be confined to an overpriced alteration “package” (or “flat fee”) for the sake of convenience. We allow the Bride to choose from several different seamstresses in the area who are extremely skilled and talented in bridal and formal wear alterations. These alteration providers are independently owned and operated, small businesses. They set their own pricing scale based on the intricacy of the work to be performed.

Alterations are necessary but time consuming. Sizing in the bridal industry is extremely different from any other piece of clothing you will ever wear or order. Read our blog on sizing and how we try to get the RIGHT size!

As Consultants, we can offer you our considerable knowledge and guidance. Speak up and always let your thoughts be known about sizing.

Bridal salons are overpriced and have HUGE marked-up prices. Buying a gown on-line will save me hundreds of dollars.

MYTH!!!! MYTH!!!! MYTH!!!!

The Amazon model of internet sales is revolutionary in terms of convenience, product choice and price comparison. Who doesn’t like hitting a button and having a package show up the next day fulfilling your need. And as much as my Amazon Prime account makes my life easier, it can’t always fulfill every niche. As the old adage says, if it’s too good to be true, it usually is.

Take for example on-line wedding gown vendors. We’ve all seen the Memes of the “knock-off” dresses. That is not a myth either – those knock offs actually do look that bad. Scarily, some even smell terrible, like chemicals or something burned.

Recently, we had a young lady rush into Darianna on a Friday afternoon clutching a gown, desperately looking for a replacement. The gown she was holding was an internet purchase. It was only $30. A total bargain, right? Wrong. The dress construction was absurd (the bra cups were almost at her shoulders), the lining was entirely too small, and the lace bodice was completely off-color. Thankfully, we found her a great substitute that she wore to fulfill her Maid of Honor duties. She paid a fair MSRP price on a quality dress, and spent an extra $30 on a dress she threw out.

Delivery of that bargain dress was delayed over a month due to its shipping origination in China. The site she purchased from had no customer service representative to speak with and no remedy for her situation. She purchased the dress from a picture and provided her credit card information to an unknown business entity in a foreign country.

At Darianna Bridal and Tuxedo, this is an untruth that we work to dismiss. We know our modern couple needs to be price conscious and we know they have other monetary considerations for their wedding day. Today’s Bride and Groom are graduating from college and entering the work force with incurred educational and life debts. We, as well as our manufacturers, are aware of this fact. We actively adhere to suggested manufacturer pricing guidelines so you can be assured of the best pricing available for the highest quality dresses.

Also, being a family run business, we have family and employees carrying educational and life debt. We know the importance of a budget. Our goal is to make your special day a reality, not to put you in debt.

My Bridal Squad is planning a party while I try on wedding dresses! Champagne, treats, and hours of fun for everyone! This is a great way to find my dress.

No one likes to have fun at a Bridal appointment more than the Consultants at Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo. This appointment is meant to be a memorable and joyous experience! We are always excited to meet you and your guests. But, as with most things, there are considerations…

While it is sparkling good fun to bring in champagne for your crew to sip while you view, it does not make for good decision making skills.

We love to celebrate the final “YES!” with a champagne toast, but drinking alcohol is not a good idea throughout the appointment. You and your Squad should approach this decision with the contemplative attitude the task requires, then go celebrate properly at brunch or dinner!

And, while we love a gregarious group, when the attention strays from the bride, attention is diverted from the goal of finding her dress. It makes for good Instagram posts, but it is not helping the bride.

Short story: We had a very large group several years ago who brought boxed wine and a full spread of cheese and crackers. Rules were set at the start and everyone was on board. While it was fun in the beginning, it didn’t last. It turned chaotic with dresses being pulled “for fun”, silly photos being taken, and as the drinking continued, arguments started. The appointment was ruined and bride got nowhere. The appointment was shut down after the scheduled 90 minutes and the group was upset that they didn’t have enough time to see the bride in all the dresses they pulled (“for fun”).

A bride will never find her dress this way and we learned a lot from that group (including NO outside alcohol). We privately arranged to have the bride return with just her mother for the experience she deserved, where she was able to say yes and have a champagne toast on us.

Have a question or a myth you’d like answered? Let us know in a comment! We’d love to confirm or debunk for you 🙂

Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo is so proud to continue to curate the best dress and tuxedo selections for our couples at great prices. It is exciting to continue to add new dress designers (stay tuned for Morilee and MADI LANE Bridal!!) and carry the newest tuxedo styles! It’s a great time to be engaged!

wedding dresses, wedding planning

Say Yes! To The Right Accessory!

May 1, 2019 darianna Leave a comment

If you’ve said yes to your dress already, then you know this to be the case: the right accessory can completely transform a great dress into THE dress.

If you’re just starting out, picture this:

There you are on the pedestal in a beautiful wedding dress. You really like it. You look amazing and it’s giving you all the feels… This could be the one!

You can’t stop staring at yourself in it because you absolutely love the dress, yet you keep tilting your head, turning to the side… you don’t want to take it off, this is it, but you can’t say yes. What’s wrong?

When you work with an experienced bridal stylist like ours at Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo, she reads that body language. She will subtly bring over a little sparkly belt, a satin sash with a perfectly tied bow, that blush and ivory flower placed just so on the side… and all of a sudden, TEARS! It’s a definite YES!

A good bridal stylist will be able to guide you to your perfect dress style, including shape, neckline, and fabrics. A great bridal stylist, like ours at Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo, will listen, watch your reactions, and read your expressions to take your look to the next level, without breaking the budget!

When you have that dress on that we know checks all the right boxes, but you’re still stuck, we will help you check that last box with the right accessory! Let the fun continue!

Accessories come in all shapes and sizes. From thick crystal and pearl, to an accent piece worn a bit to the side, to an organza or satin sash tied in a beautiful bow in the back, there is an accessory for every dress.

A veil can also completely transform a dress. You have a lace one on and love it, then your stylist has you try on a pretty crystal beaded one just for fun. Whoa. Didn’t think you wanted a veil but that cathedral length… imagine those pictures of it blowing in the wind… Ahh! Who knew you could look so gorgeous?!

Veils vary in length from the birdcage, shoulder, fingertip, chapel, cathedral, and royal (an incredible 120″ long!). From simple chic to glam to dramatic elegance, it’s all about your style – and your dress.

A classic crepe or satin dress can be transformed into a work of art with the right cathedral veil edged in lace. A mermaid can be perfectly framed with a fingertip length veil ending right at the skirt flare! Let your stylist show you the options!

Perhaps a beautiful bolero jacket to match your gown, or a gorgeous cape adorned with beading and embroidery? These pieces are definitely not to be overlooked when thinking of accessories.

Completely transform your dress with detachable straps, cap, or even long sleeves! Consider a detachable train to turn a sleek fitted dress into a ballgown in an instant and get two dresses in one!

Note: You do not want any one accessory to be the focal point. These are completer pieces that pull your bridal look together. Your veil, belt, jewelry, shoes – all are accessories that need to be tried on with your dress to see what looks best.

The perfect look is the one where every piece is right and you’re feeling it. Whether it’s minimalist accessories with just the right hair piece, or a blinged-out beauty with sparkle head to toe, let your stylist guide you and go with that voice inside to create your vision!

Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo is an award-winning bridal and tuxedo store in Warrington, PA. With an outstanding reputation and partnering with some of the best vendors in the wedding industry, you can visit us at www.dariannabridal.com, call or text 215-491-8500.

Uncategorized, wedding dresses

Help! What Dress Size Am I?!

April 4, 2019 darianna Leave a comment

Have you shopped for your wedding dress and been shocked at the size? You’re not alone. The fashion world is all over the place with sizing these days! Manufacturers are changing their cutting scales so now you could fit into a size much smaller than your “usual”, but this is not the case in a wedding dress.

While each designer cuts on his/her own scale, the sizing can be very confusing. Your measurements might fit into a 4 in one designer and an 8 in another. Your measurements could also fall into three different sizes.

Most of the time, whatever size you “usually” are, it is a larger size in bridal. Do not be discouraged! That number is meaningless – the FIT is what matters!

This is why it is so important to get the measurements right. Alterations can be costly, and multiple alterations are not good for the dress.

Some designers will offer custom measurements for a fee. This is a great option if a bride has a large bust and smaller hips, or vice versa. Ordering for the largest measurement is not the best option if you can get custom.

The drawback of custom is that you need to stay about the same size until your wedding day.

If you are intent on losing weight before your wedding, consider ordering your dress closer to your wedding date and getting measured just before ordering.

If custom is not available in the dress you choose or you’re not interested in going that route, your stylist will consult with you on sizing. Together you will look at your measurements, the size chart, the dress silhouette and features (is it a ballgown or a mermaid, full back with buttons or backless, etc.) and be confident with why a particular size is chosen.

Our stylists want the best for you! Be confident that we will make suggestions and offer ideas for consideration. While there are stores notorious for ordering larger sizes, ours is definitely not one. We want our brides to have minimal alterations, not only for your wallet, but also for the integrity of the dress!

Many designers also offer custom length and petite cuts as well. IF you commit to the shoes and get measured, you can have it made in your length! If you’re under 5’4″, ask about what a petite cut would look like in the dress you love.

We have had many brides come to try on their dresses and needed nothing but a bustle. How gratifying is that?! That is our goal and when our sizing and measurements hit the mark perfectly it’s a joy knowing that dress came directly from the designer and not one detail was changed!

We have also had brides lose up to 40 pounds (have you seen our TLC Say Yes: Wedding SOS episode?) and 4 sizes. We have had brides change medications and gain inches to where they needed significant alterations to fit properly.

Be realistic. If you know you lost or gained significant weight, be aware that the size ordered is then not your size anymore. If that happens, your stylist and seamstress will assist in the best solution! Do not panic and do not put off your try on. Go in as soon as your dress arrives so a plan can be made in plenty of time.

Remember, sizes are not standard. Every designer has their own. Do not worry or obsess over a number! They don’t mean anything anymore and it’s not about the size, it’s about the DRESS! Come on in and let us find that perfect one for you!