December

With all the sunshine outside it is hard to believe it is almost Christmas and many brides-to-be will be receiving their engagement rings. We are starting to receive our new spring gowns and are so excited about them. I'm sure you will be too. Many of the Fall '09 styles are still really hot. Don't miss out. Be the first to see them. Call to make an appointment before the rush.

Remember regular ordering time for bridal gowns is 12 weeks. We are preparing for all the Spring break weddings and have a lot on order already. However, if we do not have what you want in your size and color (white or ivory) in mid-January the ship date changes to 14-16 weeks out because of Chinese New Year.

Thank you notes

Thank you notes are a must! You can purchase them very inexpensively at Xpedex or Papers Plus. Each of your guests who bring a gift should receive a hand-written thank you note thanking them for the specific gift. Technically you have a year to send them, but in reality you should send them within two months. Thank you note are in order for all shower gifts as well, and don't forget when those babies come along, you need to send thank you notes for all gifts received as well.

The post office has a couple of different designs specifically for wedding announcements and thank you notes. You can even order stamps on-line by going to USPS.com.

Invitations

In Utah we usually send out invitations 3-4 weeks in advance. Fairy Godmother's has a "fill-in-the-blank" form to make the process easier. Invitations are 50% off the regular retail (wholesale price) plus a $50 administration fee. The price on-line reflects the 50% off price. All of this is done on line. Go to our website and click on the invitation tab. You go directly into Birchcraft. Once you have entered all the information, the draft comes to us and I (Judy) go through it and make sure you haven't forgotten anything. I may make some suggestions which you can accept or reject.

You get raised printing in any color you choose (small extra charge for color) or the popular black ink. Tell your friends about this service as our local culture usually gets 300+ invitations and this is the best price around. You don't have to purchase your gown with us to get this offer.

Once we have the invitation the way we want it it is submitted via email, printed within 48 hours and shipped directly to your home or address of your choice.

I can email a copy of the invitation wording form. It includes wording for a Temple Card.

Underpinnings

What you wear under a wedding gown is almost as important as the gown. A well fitted bustier (long line bra) is usually a must. We have done years of research (purchasing all kinds) and have the best ever (our brides tell us this). They are pretty and comfortable and give a great look to the bodice of the gown. We have sizes 32A to 48F and all sizes in between (usually in stock). 32-36 A, B and C's are padded.

We also usually use hoops rather than petticoats (commonly called slips) as they keep the gown away from your legs and are easier to walk in. Whether it is Winter or Summer, these gowns can be hot because they are usually made from man made material which doesn't breathe. We have one, two and three ring hoops that fit under most gowns. They are a cotton blend and we have them in-stock from a "regular" to 3X and can have them specially made and shipped to Salt Lake in three days. We get thank you notes for our "built-in air conditioners."

We have special petticoats (slips) for mermaid and straighter gowns. You name it, we can get it. We do sell our underpinnings to brides who have not purchased their gowns here--just not on Saturdays. Call for appointment and bring your gown for proper fit.

When you go for your fitting for alterations you need to take EVERYTHING you will be wearing under your gown including bustier, hoop/slip and shoes. Most seamstresses will not see you without them. We refer to several seamstresses we have had good luck with and are not usually backed up more than two weeks. Their charges are reasonable and they can add sleeves, lace-up backs or make jackets for the bride.

To make an appointment or for more info on this subject, please call or email.

Appointments

Although we work by appointment, we can usually fit a bride in even if she calls the same day. Don't be afraid to call to see if we have an opening especially in the Fall. We have a wonderful inventory and many gowns on order ready to ship--you don't have to wait 12 weeks for shipment. Call and make an appointment to try on about 10-15 styles in less than an hour. We assist you every step of the way.

Gown Shopping with Mom

Who do you want to take shopping? Take Mom first. Good friend or sister second. You get better input without too much input. Best to leave small children with a sitter they get too restless and you feel too hurried. Make this FUN!

If you are thinking maybe HE will pop the question over the holidays you might want to visit our outlet to get the best selection before all the other brides receive their rings over the Thanksgiving weekend. You probably won't have time to shop for a gown over that weekend with all the other pre-Christmas sales, so if you come in now you will be ahead of the curve.

This gown looks fabulous with the popular Russian net birdcage veil.

Shopping for wedding gown

You can become "snow blind" looking for gowns. Don't over tax your brain. It has always been amazing to me that a bride can spend so much mental energy choosing a gown and then go out and tromp through fields, warehouses, and rail yards taking their Bridals.

We want each bride to have a gown she looks radiant in and our goal is to help her find it. Be open and try on many styles--even those you don't think you will like. One thing we hear more than almost anything else is, "Thank you. I never would have tried this gown on and I love it." So, don't have too many preconceived notions about what you think you want. You will probably look better in most wedding gowns than you have ever looked before.

Bridal on a budget

Three years ago I started a new bridal boutique. This boutique sells overstock and previously gently worn bridal gowns. Fall is a good time to buy a bridal gown here because many have been marked down to $200 or less.

There are many styles and sizes to choose from--some mother's dresses too. We have both modest and contemporary. No appointment is necessary. Hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00 - 6:00. Saturday 10:00 - 5:00. Closed Sunday and Monday. We can be found at 4014 South Highland Drive in Salt Lake City (across from Les Schwab Tires). Call 801 272-4711 for further information.

Remember, you can't shop for a gown on the phone. Also, it is a good idea to take Mom and/or ONE family member of friend. You can concentrate on your shopping if you leave small children at home (all unattended children will receive a double latte and kitten when they leave).