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.