Frequently asked questions
Please read, so you may become familiar with these commonly asked questions!! We have it in two sections, please read what is applicable to your situation.
A) Purchasing in our boutique
B) Purchasing on-line
Hopefully, our suggestions and info helps! If you do not find an answer to your question here, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will send you an answer quickly.
A) PURCHASING IN OUR BOUTIQUE
- Do I need an appointment to try on bridal gowns?
No you do not. However, if you would like uninterrupted service, an appointment is required. Monday & Thursday night, along with Saturday are peak selling times, therefore, there may be a short wait for dressing rooms.
- How far in advance do I need to order my bridal gown?
Wedding gowns usually take 3-6 months for delivery. But, we suggest ordering your gown 7-8 months prior to your wedding date. To allow for shipping/production delays, as well as leaving plenty of time for alterations and valuable peace of mind.
- How far in advance do I need to order my bridal party dresses?
Please see bridesmaids page and for all bridesmaids faq’s.
- Help, my wedding is in 2 months! Is there enough time to get a dress?
Don’t panic!!! There are ways to have a special ordered gown in time for your wedding day, such as a rush cut for a surcharge or hanging stock at manufactures. Another option is to purchase one of our many samples from stock, which will best be restored to its original condition.
- What is the difference between stock and special order gowns?
Stock gowns- are gowns in which we have in our shop for try-on, but are also available for sale. We usually sell our stock gowns (referred to as samples) to a bride if the gown is needed in a short period of time, or if the gown has been discontinued, and is not available to special order anymore. [ with in the bridal business, gowns become discontinued everyday, that’s just the way this industry works. There is nothing wrong with a gown if it has become discontinued, almost every gown becomes discontinued at one point or another. One of the many reasons could be the material or embellishments that the designers previously used, can not be located anymore…… So, if a bride sees the dress of her dreams, and its been discontinued, her only option is to purchase the sample]. Most of our stock gowns have been in our shop as samples for 9 months or less, and when we sell a sample gown, we best restore it to its original condition, and they look virtually brand new!!
Special order- are gowns is which we order for you. We take your measurements and special order the gown in the size closest to your measurements, along with desired color and occasionally custom changes. A special ordered gown usually takes 3-6 months for delivery.
- If my gown was purchased from stock, do I have to take it with me that day?
You may take it with you, or leave it in our storage room in our shop. There is no extra charge to store it with us. Normal practice is to store your gown at the shop until alterations have been completed and your dress has been steamed and spot cleaned if needed.
- Do you carry the designer gowns that I see in all the bridal magazines such as “the knot, Martha Stewart weddings, brides, bridal guide…”?
Yes, we definitely do. We carry the major designers from throughout the world. We travel the national bridal markets in the USA and Europe to find the hottest styles out there. We also belong to “NBS” which enables us to virtually attain any wedding gown from any advertised designer.
- How does the payment schedule of my wedding gown and bridesmaids work?
Note*This pertains to in-store purchasing only! Usually to special order a gown, we require 50% down, but, we understand the costs involved with planning a wedding. So, we do have a layaway plan available. You can put as little as $100 down to reserve your gown, and your order is then entered into our system. When the 50% mark is reached, we then put the special order through to the designer. Once your special gown has arrived from the designer, we notify you and the balance is due within 2 weeks. If purchasing a stock gown, we require as little as $100 down, with weekly payments until the balance is paid. For full layaway details, inquire at the shop.
- Can we take pictures in your shop?
Yes, we have no problem with you taking pictures in our shop, as we understand sometimes mothers, maid of honors ….live in different cities and you want them to help with the final decision.
- Do you keep the designer labels/tags in your sample gowns?
Yes, we keep our original labels in our samples, and would not have it any other way. As mentioned, we stock all the major designers, and we feel the bride has the right to know what designer has created the gown she may or may not buy. Our designers are world renowned, and we want our brides to know they are actually trying on designer gowns from all the nationally advertised designers in the magazines. We owe that to our designers, who create so many exquisite gowns as well as to future brides. We are confident with our price, diverse selection, and absolutely genuine service, so we do not remove our labels. To hide something like a designer would only create mistrust from you the customer, the future bride.
- Before special ordering, I was measured for my bridal gown, shouldn’t it fit perfectly?
Your gown is not custom made, your measurements are taken and then we compare them to the applicable manufactures size chart. We then order you the size that your measurements best fit into, with the least amount of alterations involved. Sometimes, we have brides that fit perfectly into a certain size, so when her gown arrives, there is no alterations needed, but the hem. But, it is very rare, and 90% of our brides need alterations. One way to avoid alterations is to order a “lace up back”, which does eliminate most alterations, therefore all that is usually needed, is a hem. (Keeping in mind that there has not been a huge weight loss or gain).
Depending on the style of gown (ie. Sheath, mermaid…..) we may have to fit the largest body measurement, as some gowns can not be “let out” or released. Always remember, it is always easier to “take in” then “let out”!! Gowns are not custom made, so please allow time and budget for the possibility of alterations.
- Can a gown be ordered in any size?
Most of our designer gowns have a wide range of sizes available. Usual size charts range from 4 - 28. Some manufactures offer “petit” and “women's” sizing, but with a surcharge. Usually, manufactures do have additional charges for gowns ordered over size 16. Our customer has the final say in regards to what size is ordered for them. We can only suggest what size we think should be ordered. Stella’s bridal galleria specially orders the size that the customer has approved, agreed upon, initialed and requested. The customer ultimately takes the responsibility of the size ordered.
- Is there a standard length for gowns? Or can a customer order a specified length?
Generally, all the bridal industry gowns come in a standard length of 57 inches. Rule of thumb is if you are 5’7 inches or taller, and will be wearing heels on the event day, you probably should order extra length. Every situation is different (gown style, heel height, hem length) so please inquire and we will discuss what is best. Most manufactures offer extra length, but with a surcharge. Extra lengths come in specified increments such as 3 inches, 5 inches….., most manufactures have different specifications, so inquire at the shop.
Depending on the design of the gown, sometimes a “hollow to hem” measurement is required, as hemming of the gown would be to intricate. “Hollow to hem” is an extra charge. Please see “how to measure” for details.
- Are alterations extra?
Yes, alterations are always extra. Usually within the bridal industry, every retailer charges extra for alterations, unless the price of their gowns have alteration costs already built into their regular prices. We do not do that, as it would be unfair to customers who do not need alterations, or have very minimal alterations needed. Therefore, in regards to budgeting, before purchasing your gown, always keep in mind that some alterations are usually needed, and do cost extra. Gowns of this nature are very intricate, we offer extremely crafted, European seamstresses for your convenience. You may use our in-house seamstresses or whom ever you wish. Usually alterations for bridal gowns start 2 months in advance, with an average of 3 fitting. For bridesmaids gowns, we usually start 1 month in advance, with an average of 1-2 fittings. Everyone's situation is unique, so the number of alteration fittings that are needed, will depend on work involved…. . We do offer a “premium alteration service” for brides and bridesmaids who are from “out of town” and need their gown altered in 1-2 days. However, for scheduling purposes, we do need sufficient notice of date gown will be needed. Please inquire at shop for details on the “premium alteration service”, as everyone has unique situations that we try and accommodate, to make it as stress free as possible!! For every fitting, we require you bring your shoes and under garments with you that will be wearing on the event day. We do not charge extra for storage or steaming when you have your alterations done at stella’s. Our alterations charges vary greatly, due to the work that is involved with each indicial garment. Our alteration prices are very standard in comparison to the “national bridal service”. Please enquire at our shop if you have any alteration pricing questions or for the “national bridal service” price list. Before alterations can begin, your garment must have a zero balance. As noted before, we offer in-house alterations for your convenience, you may have Stella’s alter your gown, or you may take it to whom every you wish. It’s your decision!
- Do you alter gowns that have not been purchased at your shop?
Yes, of course we do. Please call for an appointment, and we will schedule you in. Make sure and bring your shoes and undergarments that you will be wearing on the event day. If needed, we also have crenolins that you may rent or purchase for under your gown.
- If alterations are not required on my gown, will it be steamed?
Of course!! Please let us know approximately one week in advance of the desired pick up date, so that we may allot the needed time into our schedule.
- Do you accept returns on wedding gowns?
Yes, we do take returns on wedding gowns, but only on in-stock sample gowns, which have not left our shop. The notice of return must be made within 7 days of purchase, and the credit is only toward another gown from our shop. It is an “in-store credit only”. No returns allowed on special order gowns. We reserve the right to charge a re-stocking fee.
- Do you take returns on all other items?
We do take returns on stock items that have not left our shop, but within 7 days of purchase, and it is an in-store credit only. No returns allowed on any special order items. If you have a special circumstance, please inquire with your consultant, as special exceptions may be made, but must be noted on original bill of sale and initialed by both parties. We reserve the right to charge a re-stocking fee.
- Can I have a color swatch of my bridal gown and bridesmaids?
We will do our best to supply you with one. Sometimes we only receive one inch swatches for each color from our manufactures, so swatches may be scarce. But, we will do our best!!
B) PURCHASING ON-LINE
- How far in advance do I need to order my bridal gown?
Wedding gowns usually take 3-6 months for delivery. But, we suggest ordering your gown 7-8 months prior to your wedding date. To allow for shipping/production delays, as well as leaving plenty of time for alterations and valuable peace of mind.
- How far in advance do I need to order my bridal party dresses?
Please see bridesmaids page and for all bridesmaids faq’s.
- Help, my wedding is in 2 months! Is there enough time to get a dress?
Don’t panic!!! There are ways to have a special ordered gown in time for your wedding day, such as a rush cut for a surcharge or hanging stock at manufactures . Another option is to purchase one of our many samples from stock, which will best be restored to its original condition.
- What is the difference between in-stock and special order gowns?
In-stock gowns- are gowns in which we have in our shop for try-on, but are also available for sale. We usually sell our in-stock gowns (referred to as samples) to a bride if the gown is needed in a short period of time, or if the gown has been discontinued, and is not available to special order anymore. [ with in the bridal business, gowns become discontinued everyday, that’s just the way this industry works. There is nothing wrong with a gown if it has become discontinued, almost every gown becomes discontinued at one point or another. One of the many reasons could be the material or embellishments that the designers previously used, can not be located anymore…… So, if a bride sees the dress of her dreams, and its been discontinued, her only option is to purchase the sample]. Most of our stock gowns have been in our shop as samples for 9 months or less, and when we sell a sample gown, we best restore it to its original condition, and they look virtually brand new!!
Special order- are gowns is which we order for you. We take your measurements and special order the gown in the size closest to your measurements, along with desired color and occasionally custom changes. A special ordered gown usually takes 3-6 months for delivery.
- Do you carry the designer gowns that I see in all the bridal magazines such as “the knot, Martha Stewart weddings, brides, bridal guide…”?
Yes, we definitely do. We carry the major designers from throughout the world. We travel the national bridal markets in the USA and Europe to find the hottest styles out there. We also belong to “NBS” which enables us to virtually attain any wedding gown from any advertised designer.
- Do you keep the designer labels/tags in your sample gowns?
Yes, we keep our original labels in our samples, and would not have it any other way. As mentioned, we stock all the major designers, and we feel the bride has the right to know what designer has created the gown she may or may not buy. Our designers are world renowned, and we want our brides to know they are actually trying on designer gowns from all the nationally advertised designers in the magazines. We owe that to our designers, who create so many exquisite gowns as well as to future brides. We are confident with our price, diverse selection, and absolutely genuine service, so we do not remove our labels. To hide something like a designer would only create mistrust from you the customer, the future bride.
- Before special ordering, I was measured for my bridal gown, shouldn’t it fit perfectly?
Your gown is not custom made, your measurements are taken and then we compare them to the applicable manufactures size chart. We then order you the size that your measurements best fit into, with the least amount of alterations involved. Sometimes, we have brides that fit perfectly into a certain size, so when her gown arrives, there is no alterations needed, but the hem. But, it is very rare, and 90% of our brides need alterations. One way to avoid alterations is to order a “lace up back”, which does eliminate most alterations, therefore all that is usually needed, is a hem. (Keeping in mind that there has not been a huge weight loss or gain).
Depending on the style of gown (ie. Sheath, mermaid…..) we may have to fit the largest body measurement, as some gowns can not be “let out” or released. Always remember, it is always easier to “take in” then “let out”!! Gowns are not custom made, so please allow time and budget for the possibility of alterations.
- Can a gown be ordered in any size?
Most of our designer gowns have a wide range of sizes available. Usual size charts range from 4 - 28. Some manufactures offer “petit” and “women's” sizing, but with a surcharge. Usually, manufactures do have additional charges for gowns ordered over size 16. Our customer has the final say in regards to what size is ordered for them. We can only suggest what size we think should be ordered. Stella’s bridal galleria specially orders the size that the customer has approved , agreed upon, initialed and requested. The customer ultimately takes the responsibility of the size ordered.
- Is there a standard length for gowns? Or can a customer order a specified length?
Generally, all the bridal industry gowns come in a standard length of 57 inches. Rule of thumb is if you are 5’7 inches or taller, and will be wearing heels on the event day, you probably should order extra length. Every situation is different (gown style, heel height, hem length) so please inquire and we will discuss what is best. Most manufactures offer extra length, but with a surcharge. Extra lengths come in specified increments such as 3 inches, 5 inches….., most manufactures have different specifications, so inquire at the shop.
Depending on the design of the gown, sometimes a “hollow to hem” measurement is required, as hemming of the gown would be to intricate. “Hollow to hem” is an extra charge. Please see “how to measure” for details.
- Can I have a color swatch of my bridal gown and bridesmaids?
We will do our best to supply you with one. Sometimes we only receive one inch swatches for each color from our manufactures, so swatches may be scarce. But, we will do our best!!
- How does the payment schedule of my wedding gown work?
(note* this pertains to purchasing on-line only)
When purchasing your special order gown, a 50% deposit of the grand total is required. The grand total will include the total amount of the gown (with any custom changes, hollow to hem or plus size charges if required) applicable taxes and shipping charges. When your special order arrives, we will contact you, and at that time the balance is due. We will then ship you your order.
When purchasing your in-stock order gown, the full amount of the grand total is due. Our special prices for stock gowns compensate for our payment policy. The grand total will include the total amount of the gown, applicable taxes and shipping charges. Your order will be shipped within a one week time frame. If your stock gown is needed sooner, we will arrange for that.
- Do you accept returns on wedding gowns?
Yes, we do. But, only on in-stock gowns for which you will receive an in-store credit for a different gown. The notice of return must be made within 2 days of receiving your merchandise via ups. The gown must not be worn or altered, it must have its original tags attached. The gown must be in same condition as shipped, and with original packing materials intact. If you wish to return the gown, we will ship you a authorization call tag, and pick up the gown. All shipping charges back and forth are the customers responsibility. We reserve the right to charge a re-stocking fee. Due to the nature of the bridal industry, we regret that we cannot take returns on any special order gowns, as our designers/manufactures do not accept returns. Bridal gowns are not a typical garment that can be sold to just anyone, such as regular retail clothing. Special order gowns have been specially produced with your required specifications, and to find a bride that will want that exact style with those specifications are rare. For complete return policy see our “return and cancellation pages”.
- Do you take returns on all other products purchased on-line?
Yes, we do. But, only on in-stock items ( grad & flower girl gowns, veils, tiara’s, jewelry, shoes & gloves that are from our in-store hanging stock) for which you will receive an in-store credit. We do not accept returns on any special ordered merchandise. The notice of return must be made within 2days of receiving the merchandise via ups. The item must not be worn or altered, it must have it originals tags attached. If you wish to return the item, we will ship you a authorization call tag, and pick up the item. All shipping charges back and forth are the customers responsibility. We reserve the right to charge a re-stocking fee. Due to the nature of the bridal industry, we regret that we cannot take returns on any special order gowns or items, as our designers/manufactures do not accept returns. For complete return policy see our “return and cancellation pages”.
- What if I receive my special order and it has a defect or is incorrect?
Please contact us right away. We always ask you to check your merchandise as soon as you receive it. Before any order is shipped out, we check it and double check it to make sure all is correct and in perfect condition. However, if a small defect, or error was missed by us prior to shipping, we require you let us know within 2 days of receiving your merchandise via ups. For more info pertaining to damaged merchandise, please see “return and cancellation pages”.
- I don’t trust the internet with my personal information and credit card. Can I put my on-line order through by fax, phone or mail?
Yes, we accept orders via fax, phone and mail. We have gone to extreme measures to ensure your privacy and protect all credit information through Verisign and secure servers, however, we understand not everyone is going to be comfortable with entering all their info over the internet. Therefore, we have a form in which we will send you via email or fax for offline ordering. For more information on this, please click here.
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