I really do. My role will change somewhat for a time until I’m all healed up and the new Covid-19 procedures need to be strictly adhered to for the safety and protection of all, but still, I’m ready to reopen. Whenever that is…
Our bridal store is relatively young when we compare this industry. Before we came along we researched local stores and stores across the country to get an idea of what wasn’t working for brides.
The show “Say Yes To the Dress” set a precedent for bridal stores to step it up and put more emphasis on the excitement of being engaged, planning a wedding, and finding the perfect dress. When we opened in 2013, our focus was (and continues to be) on excitement.
Which brings me to today’s thought – why I can’t wait to reopen: I miss the excitement of the bridal appointment.
Having a packed schedule makes us feel so privileged and grateful! Watching the brides filter in (usually full of nervous energy) is so fun, I can’t wait to welcome everyone and put them at ease. Letting brides and their guests “shop” for dresses along with their consultant allows everyone to be part of that excitement. We have had so many brides tell us that they loved being able to see and choose the dresses they tried on as they were unable to pick their own from other stores.
Sometimes we have brides who find their dress but feel they still need to keep looking. We tell them, “When you’re ready to say yes to this dress, come back and let us celebrate with you!” Now with the virus changing the way we interact, you need to be really smart about shopping. It’s not in anyone’s best interest for a bride and her family to keep going from store to store trying on over and over with multiple people. When you find a dress you love, say yes.
If you have been in our store when a bride says “yes!”, you know firsthand that the entire store erupts in cheers and claps – from our staff, the bride’s family, customers who never met you, even from the guys in the tuxedo area!
There is nothing quite like saying “yes!” and joining the Darianna family. We can help you with maids and of course suits and tuxedos!
I know our different approach (be kind, don’t lie, don’t high pressure sell, keep store and dresses clean, etc.) changed up the vibe in our area. We have had numerous owners and employees from other local stores wander into the store ‘undercover’ (one even made an appointment) to see why brides love the Darianna experience. The answer is simple: our staff is equally as excited as brides and grooms about their wedding day. That is something that cannot be taught in training.
Our staff isn’t only there for a paycheck, watching the clock to leave. We know who’s coming in for the first time and we know who’s coming back in the store again, we know whose weddings are coming up quickly and we know the excitement of each one. There is nothing phony or judgmental at our store. When our brides send their fiancees for tuxedos, we then get to meet everyone – family and friends – right up to a few days before the wedding. We share in it and it never gets old!
We are excited to reopen and reunite our Darianna family! If your wedding is postponed, hang in there! You’re not alone. Call or text us anytime with questions 215-491-8500. If you are ready to make your appointment, Can’t wait to see you!