For most of you, this is uncharted territory. It is a super exciting season in your life and we want you to be empowered with as much or as little info as you choose to take in. We compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions over the years to give you insight into our boutique and what to expect on your wedding dress shopping journey.
I JUST GOT ENGAGED! NOW WHAT?
Congratulations! We are so excited for you. Wedding planning can be so much fun, but there is a lot to think about, so let your experienced stylist help guide you through the part we know best – wedding dresses!Of course you will be so excited to browse and create your dream wedding Pinterest board, or even screen shot your favourite dress from our instagram, if you haven’t already! In store shopping in the perfect world happens 12 – 16 months before your wedding. This allows you to research and plan your wedding dress shopping budget, and have all of the options of our dresses available to you. Wedding Dresses can take 5-8 months to order in, if you are adding any customizations that may add time to the ordering process as well. Alterations are pretty much always required to get you the absolute perfect fit for your wedding day and most bridal seamstresses are very busy, and like 2-3 months ideally to complete your wedding gown.If you don’t have that timeline available to you – don’t panic. We know that there are plenty of brides who are getting married on quicker timelines, or maybe put off dress shopping a little too long. We always have options for you. Either purchasing a dress off the rack, out of our own collection, or rushing a dress can be viable options. Who wants to be stressed about their dress arriving on time? Not you and not us!Trust the process, some of our brides have an emotional moment when they find the one, and some are full of joy and excitement. Everyone is different and you have to trust your gut. It is VERY normal to find your perfect dress on your first appointment. You chose your fiance when you knew it felt right, you can choose your dress when you know it feels right too!Your stylist wants to help you feel beautiful and empowered to make the choice that’s right for you.
HOW MUCH ARE YOUR DRESSES?
Our designer wedding dresses range from $1400-3200 on average. We travel 2-3 times per year to see the latest trends and visit our favourite designers to see what is fresh and trendy this upcoming season and to select dresses we know our brides will love. We keep in mind design, structure, wear-abilty, quality, ethics and price points when selecting designers and dresses for you.
We host sales a few times per year that allow brides to shop off the rack wedding gowns at large discounts. It is important to us that we have good working partnerships with our designers, and their business practises are ethical and sustainable.
WHAT SIZES DO YOU CARRY?
Over the years we have continued to build our collections. We are a size inclusive bridal boutique that carries bridal size 8 through 24, and orders dresses 0-30. Our selection is always changing, we sell out of our collection as well as special order and we always strive to have something for every bride. We also carry a large range of bridesmaid dresses, mother of the bride/groom dresses and prom dresses.
DO I NEED AN APPOINTMENT?
Do the nature of our business we do require appointments. This allows us to prepare for your visit ahead of time and be sure you and your guests have a great experience, while being guided through your options with your stylist. This also allows us to schedule one or our consultants to you and only you. All of these things make for a fantastic appointment!
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO MY APPOINTMENT?
For most dresses you won’t need to wear a bra, however, if you want to try dresses on with one, we recommend a nude strapless and if you wish to wear shape wear, nude tones are best. Shape wear is not required, however underwear is required during your appointment. Shoes are not necessary during your initial appointment, our bridal suite offers a pedestal for you to stand on that will allow you to see the proper length of the gowns. Feel free to bring any inspiration photos with you, and your phone or tablet if you wish to have any special guests join you virtually. We are happy to provide our WIFI. Don’t forget a small supportive entourage is often the best for brides, an open mind and a beautiful smile!
IT’S MY FIRST APPOINTMENT
This is so exciting! The boutique is your oyster, you can try on options you have had your eye on and even some wild cards, because we have seen it many times – you just never know what dress you will fall in love with. We also suggest booking one appointment at a time. Research and find the shop you can’t wait to visit. The boutique that has similar styles to what you have in mind, the service and experience you are excited to be celebrated with, and the over all vibe of their boutique and brand. One appointment eases your mind, allows you to take in the moments and takes the pressure off of a full and overwhelming day for you and your entourage. Leaving your schedule open, gives you permission to find a dress you love, and listen to your heart, because you have already done the research to visit the boutique that aligns with your vision the most. It is so similar to when you found your fiance, you knew they were the one!
HOW DOES PAYMENT WORK?
We know there is a lot of financial planning when it comes to your wedding, and yes it isn’t as fun and glamorous as shopping for your wedding gown, but it is very important piece of the puzzle that allows you to find the dress of your dreams!
Be sure to do your research and chat with your fiance about your ideal wedding dress cost. Be sure to factor in your alterations and some accessories to finish your perfect bridal look. Whether you are making this purchase on your own or are lucky enough to have assistance from someone special, be sure you are all on the same page before you start wedding dress shopping. This allow you to be prepared and comfortable in your choice when you come across your perfect dress.
We like to give our brides options when it comes to purchasing their dream dress. Payment plans are available upon request. Chat with your stylist about your options. We also offer many payment options like Cash, Credit Card, Debit and E-transfer. Split payments are also welcome.
WHAT IF I HAVE LESS TIME?
No problem! (This is pretty common) Although we typically recommend ordering if time allows, we also have a great selection of wedding dresses that are available off the rack to brides who need their dress quickly. We will still work through your appointment with you and help your find your perfect dress. This also applies to prom, mothers, and bridesmaids.
CAN WE BRING CHAMPAGNE?
We are not currently a licensed establishment. We know how fun it is to pull out all of the stops and celebrate this exciting time. Consider upgrading your appointment to one of our celebration packages for an extra special time! See more.
AM I ABLE TO BRING FOOD/DRINKS?
We ask that you do not bring in any outside food or drink into the boutique as we keep all of our gowns great condition and don’t want any accidents to happen! (Bottled water is accepted). We are also happy to upgrade your group to one of our celebration options, or recommend a few of our favourite spots to celebrate with a drink and snacks after your appointment!
WHAT ABOUT BRIDESMAID DRESSES?
We have a beautiful selection of bridesmaid dresses to choose from. We recommend shopping about 9-10 months in advance of your wedding to select and order in time for delivery. Order time is approximately 4 months and some rush options are available upon request for an earlier delivery. Most seamstresses like 1-2 months for alterations on these types of dresses. Our current selection can range in price from $299-$450. See our bridesmaid page for more details.
ALTERATIONS
Our team of stylists are alterations certified and can help you navigate realistic fit and customizations you may want for your wedding day look. We do not perform in house alterations, but we have a fantastic list of bridal seamstresses we are happy to refer you to. Alterations are not included in dress purchases.
AFTER I SAY YES!
We keep celebrating! How excited are you? You found the perfect dress and now we continue to celebrate with you. Now you get to accessorize your wedding day look, we have all of the perfect finish touches for you. We can celebrate your bridal party as we find their perfect dresses in our bridesmaid collection. Let’s make sure your mother figures look and feel their best for this special day too while shopping our mother of the bride and groom dresses. It doesn’t stop there, we offer a variety of gown enhancement options to make sure all of the details are in place before your wedding day and even assist you with your dress aftercare, once your wedding day has come and gone! Ask your stylist.
IS RUNWAY BRIDAL A CHAIN?
Runway Bridal is a locally and woman owned and operated business in downtown Belleville. We love serving our local community and inviting clients from all over Ontario, and Canada to shop with us. Our boutique opened it’s doors to serve Brides in 2009, and has since grown over the years so become one of the most recommended bridal boutiques to shop in Eastern Ontario. We offer a selection of wedding gowns that you would see in big city boutiques, with the warmth and friendliness of a rural city. We can’t wait to meet you!
MORE QUESTIONS?
We are always happy to answer any other questions you may have. Don’t be shy, email, text or call us with any questions you have, any time.