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Frequently Asked Questions

What items should I bring or wear to be prepared for my appointment?

These are only recommendations; we help brides daily who come just as they are and we love it! It is recommended you wear nude undergarments as they will look best under a variety of dresses. Some brides prefer to wear various types of bust coverage, but we also find braless is ideal to see the utmost beauty of our dresses. Spanx and other body contouring undergarments are encouraged to make you feel the most confident in your gown. Also add a pair of shoes similar to the height or style you think you will be wearing on your wedding day, and whatever else makes you feel your most beautiful self. Lastly, it is helpful if you bring some inspiration of the type of dress you are envisioning for your big day and a budget you would like to stay within.  

When should I start shopping for my perfect wedding gown?

We can accommodate any wedding date! We are one of the largest bridal salons in the Bay Area for almost 40 years, which affords us the ability to order dresses from designers with shorter than standard delivery times. For those brides that have a little more time, the ideal time frame to order your bridal gown is between 9-12 months. Most gowns take 5-7 months for designers to arrive at our salon. You will need to allow another 2-3 months for alterations depending on whether you are having custom work done to make your dress one-of-kind. Our seamstresses prioritize alterations according to wedding date.  

How much does the average bride spend on their wedding gown?

According to The Knot’s recent study of over 1200 brides who got married within the last year, the average wedding dress cost was $1900. This is just an average, as some will spend less and some will spend more depending on what your heart desires. Our salon carries a variety of dresses ranging from approximately $1200-$4500 with the average being between $1600-$2400. We have a limited selection of dresses under $1200, but we also offer designer samples at budget-friendly prices. For brides that might want an informal gown, we do offer social occasion dresses that can be special ordered in white and ivory, as well as many other colors.

 

How can I get a discount on my wedding dress and accessories and my entire bridal party?

Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep informed of all our special promotions and designer shows. Also, when you purchase your wedding gown with us, we offer discounts on all attire for your entire bridal party and tuxedos/suits from our Menswear Department.  

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash and credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and Apple Pay.

What is the cost of full bridal gown alterations?

Bridal gown alterations are offered by a specialized referral list of seamstresses. The prices are set by the individual seamstress, and you have the option of using anyone of your choosing outside of our referral list as well. We recommend only professional bridal seamstresses to work on our designer gowns, as they require special care. The average cost of alterations depends on several factors, but full alterations consist of hemming, body contouring, straps or sleeve adjustments, and a bustle. These alterations are approximately $400-$700 depending on the intricacies of the gown. This does not include custom changes and other special requests.

I’m on a budget, do you have a payment plan, so I can pay for my dream wedding dress?

Yes, we do! We offer a layaway plan on all specially ordered wedding gowns. Our layaway plans help you budget monthly to allow you to wear the dress of your dreams. Your consultant will be happy to explain all the details.

 

Now that I have my wedding gown, when should I start shopping for bridesmaid’s dresses?

You can start the selection process for the perfect bridesmaid’s dress, as soon as the day you say yes! to your wedding gown, by narrowing colors and styles you love with your gown. Bridesmaid’s dresses are best ordered 6 months before. Bridesmaid’s dresses take approximately 4 months to arrive, but additional time should be allowed for alterations and accessories.  

Does Elegant Lace Bridal & Tuxedo carry menswear for the groom and his groomsmen/groomsmen?

We carry the largest rental company for menswear, Jim’s Formalwear. We recommend starting your registry for your groom and groomsmen/groomsmen in your bridal party soon after you have ordered your bridesmaid’s dresses. We will assist you in coordinating your perfect color to accentuate the beauty of your entire wedding party and vision for your wedding.

How can I get a discount on my wedding dress and accessories and my entire bridal party?

Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep informed of all our special promotions and designer shows. Also, when you purchase your wedding gown with us, we offer a discount on all dresses for your entire bridal party and tuxedos and suits from our Menswear Department.

What are your policies regarding food and drink?

We want you to have fun and enjoy your appointment at our salon. Please feel free to bring champagne and plastic glasses as needed. Food is not allowed, but exceptions are made due to certain circumstances. Water is always welcome.

How many guests may I bring to my appointment?

Over the years, we have found that 6 guests are an ideal maximum number of guests to include immediate family and closest friends. However, we realize there are times when exceptions need to be made. Please contact us directly if you would like us to make arrangements for accommodating a larger party.

How long is my appointment?

Our bridal appointments are 1.5 hours. Bridesmaid’s appointments are 1 hour. Allotted times may vary.

What can I expect at my appointment?

You will meet with your consultant and go over what your vision is for your big day. Your consultant will pull a variety of dresses according to your budget and expectations.

Is our salon LGBTQ friendly?

Our salon is a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Please let us know if you have preferences.

Do we offer bilingual consultants?

We have several consultants that speak Spanish fluently, but all our consultants are comfortable helping brides that bring family or friends as translators.