When I have my wedding consultations, my conversations always include all the little details of the wedding and soon lead to what

seems the biggest part of planning the wedding — THE DRESS!

I wanted to do a feature on Bridal Debut to help brides understand the process of purchasing

a wedding gown and where else to go than Bridal Debut!

I am a little biased as I did work for Bridal Debut, and always try to steer my brides towards this boutique.

The service and wide variety of choices will not let you down!  From the minute you walk in for your first appointment to your last alteration,

you will be treated like you are the only bride of the season!

Shelley, from the Sherwood Park location, took time out to answer some questions for me and will hopefully help

you when starting your wedding gown hunt!

Tell me about the experience brides can expect at Bridal Debut?

“Brides can expect a great experience when they come to bridal debut! We have trained, knowledgeable consultants to help you one on one to help find that perfect dress. Bridal Debut is a full service salon offering a large selection of bridal gowns, bridesmaid’s dresses, accessories and seamstresses all in one spot so it makes it a convenient and stress free shopping experience.”

What sets your boutique apart from the rest?

“I think the main thing that brides will find that sets us apart is honestly, our service. We genuinely care about our brides and always have finding their perfect dress a priority.We are not about pressure sales or selling the most expensive dresses.We purposely don’t have our consultants on commission for this reason. We carry a wide range of styles, sizes, and price points, so we truly have a dress to meet every brides needs.”

What designers do you carry?Any exclusive designers?

“Bridal Debut carries designs from Maggie Sottero, Sottero and Midgley, Alfred Sung,Allure and Exclusive at both of our locations. We like to carry more exclusive collections that not everybody has like the Maggie Sottero line, and our fabulous Swarovski crystal Benjamin Adams shoes!. We like to carry the latest trends in the gowns as well as the accessories to make sure all our brides look modern and fabulous!

Bridal Debut likes to try new things and is always trying to stay ahead of the trends.”

What is the newest trend in bridal gowns and accessories?

“The newest trends this year are all about using different textures. Dresses are being made of all different fabrics and they are being draped in ways to give the gown style as opposed to covering it with beads. Belts are also really popular. Brides are adding color, bling or flowers to their dress just by adding a simple belt. Lace has always been popular and I think always will be, I find they are just adding more 3 dimensional elements to it to make it more modern. Some designers are coming out with short dresses as well as high-low hem (short in the front, long in the back).

Typically, what can brides expect in terms of budget when purchasing a gown at Bridal Debut?

“We have dresses in all budgets. Our gowns start at $700 and go up to $3000. Although I would say the average dress we sell is $1500. We always tell girls to budget $300 to $500 for alterations plus all their accessories (shoes, veils, jewelry).”

How far in advance should brides order their gowns?

“Brides should order their gowns at least 8 months prior to the wedding.

Some designers can take up to six months for delivery, plus you need 2 months for alterations.”

What should brides bring to their first appointment?

“Brides should bring their mom or MOH to their appointment, too many people can be overwhelming.

A camera is a good idea and maybe some pictures of gowns you are interested in and an open mind.

Consultants know what will look good more then the bride, so trust them!

Also, please make sure you wear underwear!!”

What is the process brides should expect once their gowns are ordered?

“When you order a gown, you will need to put down a 50% deposit to order it. The gown will take up to 6 months to come in and you will pay balance at that time.The bride will usually come in right away to try it on and make sure everything is all good. Some will try on final accessories at this time as well. If you do require alterations, we will book you a fitting with the seamstress. You will probably need two fittings and will pay for them after they are done and bride is happy. We then offer to leave the dress in the store until right before their wedding. We will give it a final press and make it look perfect for the big day! Brides will typically come a couple days before the wedding to pick up their gowns.”

To book your appointment and to find your perfect wedding gown and accessories, call the ladies at Bridal Debut!

You won’t be disappointed with your experience!!