Frequently Asked Questions at Leonardos' Bridal & Formal Boutique

frequently

asked questions

When should I start shopping for my gown?

Depending upon the designer, gowns can take upwards of six months to come in. We suggest scheduling your first alteration appointment six to eight weeks prior to your wedding day. In order to make the process as stress-free as possible, it is best to choose your gown nine months to a year before your wedding date. If you are a bride with a shorter timeframe, there’s no need to worry. You have options, such as having your gown “rushed” or choosing a sample dress that can be altered to fit you perfectly.

What should I bring with me?

Please bring any gown photos that you have found online or in magazines for inspiration, as well as any undergarments you may need. You may also wish to enlist the help of a few trusted individuals with whom you share a similar sense of style. Don’t be discouraged if you will be shopping on your own. We consider our brides part of the Leonardo’s family, and are more than happy to guide you patiently through your selection process. Our brides are welcome to try their gown on as many times as they wish, even after it’s purchased. You can always include family and close friends in one of these fun-filled visits.

Are there additional charges for alterations and pressing?

At Leonardo’s, our gowns are priced based on the designer, their workmanship and the fabric that they select. At the time of purchase, no additional or “hidden” fees have been added to the cost of the gown. Often times a store will tell you that your alterations and pressing are free; however, those costs have simply been predetermined and added into the price of the gown.

We understand that each bride is as unique as the gown that she chooses. Alterations are imperative to create a truly custom fit. While your designer will cut your dress to your proportions, a talented seamstress is needed to make the appropriate adjustments that will flatter your individual figure. They will also work with you to add details such as a bustle or straps.

Alterations are priced on an ala carte basis rather than as a “package deal”. This ensures that each bride is paying only for what she needs to make her gown perfect. The final step of the alterations process is pressing and steaming. Because many of our gowns are made with delicate fabrics, it is important that they are steamed and pressed by a knowledgeable professional who has experience. Our professionals ensure that your gown is pressed by hand and delivered to you on a form that will enable your gown to maintain its shape until your wedding day.

we want to help you every step of the way in finding your perfect wedding and formal attire, so we have compiled some information here to help you understand the process and our personalized services