Jennifer Regan is the founder and designer of Embryo Bridal Label.
Further information at:  www.embryo.com.au

Store located at:412 King Street (op. Holt st) Newtown NSW
Australia      Phone: +61 2 9565 2595

 

All Important Questions to Ask when Choosing your Gown.

Jennifer Regan from Embryo Bridal gives you some important tips on what questions to ask when choosing your gowns.

 

How soon should I start my gown research?

Timing = budget.  As a rule of thumb not earlier than 12 months prior to your wedding as your tastes may change in that period and you may be left with a design you no longer love.

 

 If you are having a Custom Design gown created by a competent designer then 9 months ahead is a good target. It may take 3 months to find your designer ( depends on how much time you can commit )  and 6 months for the designer to develop the design, order the fabric and complete your gown.

TIP. You are not the only bride the designer is working with so you have to work within the designer's schedule.

 

Should you be purchasing a Made to Measure gown, the same timing applies as you still have to find your designer, order your fabric and have your gown made.

TIP. All business's have their own payment schedule. You need to ask at the consultation. Ask if they offer a monthly payment plan. ... so the earlier you start your gown the more time you have to pay it off

If you decide to go with a Made to Order gown then the timing depends on where your gown is created. If your gown is made off shore it may have a lead time of 6 months to have it made and shipped to Australia for your wedding + time for alterations you will need.  

 

What should I bring to my first consultation?

If you are working with a designer the initial consultation should be either one on one or bring some one whose opinion you value.

 

You could also bring images that portray your feelings and styling of your day.

As I mentioned last month a few words, stylish, elegant, slinky etc. will go a long way to help your designer to fulfill your vision.

 

TIP. Leave the girlfriends at home until after you have chosen your gown..Because to many cooks spoil the broth.

 

How long does it take to make my gown?

As I have already discussed it may take 6 months to create your gown.

Whether you are working with a designer or a retail outlet the timing is around the same. It may be possible that the designer can adjust their schedule to fit you in if you have a special need ie pregnant, eloping, religious reason etc.

 

How many fittings will I need and will I be charged extra for my fittings?

If your gown is a Custom Design it will take approximately 8 fittings to perfect the design and fit and these fittings are included in the price of your gown.

A Made to Measure gown will take approximately 4 fittings to perfect the fit and these fittings are generally included in the price of your gown.

Made to Order will take approximately 1 or 2 fittings and you will be charged for these alterations to your gown.

 

TIP. Always establish at the first consultation what you can expect to be charged. Be aware of hidden costs.

 

Can I change aspects of my gown?

As I mentioned last month you need to check this with your designer or sales assistant.

 

Obviously if you are working directly with the designer on your Custom Design or Made to Measure gown then the answer is yes.

If you've chosen a Made to Order gown then you may have the option of minor changes but if your gown is Ready to Wear you have no option but take it as it is.

What is the content of the fabric of my gown?

There are 2 options.

 

Natural fibres .... for example silks and cottons, These fibres breathe and offer maximum comfort. (Only if all layers of your gown are natural fibres)Because these fibres are grown naturally they are more expensive and exclusive and create a higher quality finish to your gown.

They look, feel, move and photograph exquisitely.

For the bride concerned with a carbon neutral wedding a natural fibre is an obvious choice.

 

Man Made Fibres .... for example polyester, lycra. These fibres don't breathe. They are perfect for the more price conscious bride to be.

Because of the production process they are a much cheaper alternative to

silk.    

 

There is some confusion amongst brides about the term Satin. Satin can either be silk satin or polyester satin. You need to clarify this with your designer or sales assistant.

 

TIP. Every gown by law will carry a fabric content label so it should be easy to establish what your gown is made of.

 

Where is my gown made?

Your gown could be made on the designer's premises or by an outworker in Australia or made overseas. (most overseas gowns are made in China and should carry a label stating the country of origin)

 

What guarantee can you give me that my gown will fit perfectly?

At embryo I offer a money back guarantee your gown will fit you perfectly and you will love your bridal gown experience.

 

You need to establish at the first consultation what guarantee your designer or sales assistant offers.

 

Further information at:  www.embryo.com.au

Store located at:412 King Street (op. Holt st) Newtown N.S.W.
Australia      Phone: +61 2 9565 2595

 

 

Jennifer Regan’s Tips