Vow'd Part IX

ALTERATIONS

Prior to opening, each store will spend time identifying 2-3 local seamstress partners to recommend to brides. While we do not offer alterations in-house we view these partners as an extension of our services.

We will have these partners in-store regularly to train our teams on what alterations are or aren’t possible, their timelines and availability and average costs for different types of alterations, will give you the confidence you need to answer guest questions as they arise.

Alterations Costs

You never want to quote brides a price! If she is feeling unsure about the affordability of specific alterations lean on your seamstress partner to give you a range of what the cost will be.

Always be realistic with her.

If your bride is on a tight budget and you are suggesting that she can line the bodice, change the straps, alter the neckline, add a bustle, etc. - then you are setting her up for failure.Alterations costs can quickly add up and the sticker shock of a $800 alterations bill can change a 5-star review to a no-star return!

HOT TIP: You may want your seamstress’ phone number on speed dial or a text chain started on Saturday mornings for on-the-fly alterations questions.

ALTERATIONS FAQs

The answer will always depend on the style, but these are questions you’ll want to discuss with your local seamstress during your regular fit sessions.

Can I adjust a neckline?-showing more or less cleavage?

Can I add or remove sleeves?

Can I change the color of the lining?

Can I add or remove lining in the bodice?

Can I add buttons?

Can I taper the skirt in?

How do I bustle this style?

Can I add volume or remove fabric in the skirt?

HOT TIP: Assign someone to take notes to reference later!This will come in handy when training new stylists or for team members unable to join the training sesh.

Bustling

One of the most common alterations questions you’ll get is how to pin-up the train when the ceremony is over and the answer is - the dress will need a bustle!

None of our dresses come with the bustle built-in because the position and length of the bustle will depend on the bride’s height and preference.Alterations experts are very familiar with the different types of bustles and will be able to add one easily to any necessary style.

There are several different styles of bustles and the guide below will give you an idea of the most common styles our brides use. First, we need to answer one very important question -

What is a bustle???

Types of Bustles

● The French Bustle (or under bustle). The French bustle tucks the train underneath the skirt, creating a tidy swell of fabric. French bustles are more suited for sturdier fabrics like satin, crepe or lace dresses that have a heavier lining. Brides with ball gowns, a-line or fit and flare silhouettes should consider a French bustle.

● The Ballroom Bustle. Hide the train of your dress altogether with a Ballroom bustle by fastening it beneath the skirt using several attachment points. Ballroom bustles are better suited for satin or crepe dresses - nothing with flowy fabrics.

● The American Bustle. This bustle involves gathering up the train and fastening it over the rest of the skirt, creating a waterfall of folds.Aseamstress can add several pick-up points, which increases the drama of the bustle. American bustles are best suited for lace, chiffon or flowy dresses. If you have anA-line, mermaid or ball gown, anAmerican bustle might be for you!

Brides will need to account for the cost of a bustle in their alterations budget.The average bustle costs anywhere from $75-$250.The longer the train, the bigger the bustle and the more expensive the alteration.

Creative Alterations

Helping a bride bring their wedding dress vision to life sometimes requires a little imagination. She may LOVE a dress, but it’s missing that something extra she was hoping for. Get creative and help her envision how the dress could look after alterations!

There’s no real rule book to follow (it requires imagination, remember?), but here are a few examples from our stores:

● Use a tulle sash to create balloon or off-the-shoulder sleeves.

● Skinny belts become sparkly straps on a strapless dress in-need of a little extra support

● Av-neck style could look just as magical off-the-shoulder when the bodice is structured enough to hold the top up

● AnA-line skirt becomes a full-on ballgown with the addition of a petticoat

In-House Tools

Not all alteration questions will require the bride’s imagination too. We provide each store with a few tools to help them envision the change in real time:

Bodices - Each store will receive 1 ivory bodice and 1 nude bodice for use in appointments. Use to mock-up lining of an unlined dress so they can see what it would look like after alterations.These items are NOTfor sale.

We have a beautiful selection of Bridesmaid dresses.

During this Try-On session we want you to select a few of your favorite styles to try on.

Don’t forget to fill out the Fit Card.

Day 4 Stylist Training

Day 4 - 4 Hours

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NOTES:

“Oh my gosh! This is it…this is the dress!!”

You’ve done it!! You have helped your bride find the one, the dress of her dreams!! Your job is done…or is it?

Her experience doesn’t stop there and neither should you. Let’s take a look at a few scenarios that our Bride will experience throughout her journey.

Closing the Sale

●If she hasn’t already, have her create a Vow’d account.This can be done on the sign-in page on the website. If time is available bring the iPad to her in her viewing space while she is sitting with her family and friends. Even if you’re right on time, she shouldn’t feel rushed.

●Once her account is created, invite her to the cash-wrap area to either check out, or provide her with a card that has her favorite styles, recommended sizes and your contact information written out.

●Before you say your final goodbyes offer to take photos of her and her group - We love a confetti moment!

●Finally, thank her for coming in, invite her back for any appropriate appointments like accessories or for her bridesmaids.