FAQs
For a general overview of bridepower visit the
How It All Works page. For specific questions regarding bridepower see the
list of Frequently Asked Questions below or just
Ask Us.
What is the Gown Locator/Gown Notifier?
What is the Gown Locator fee?
Are the gowns still returnable if they are purchased thru Gown Locator.
What is the likelihood that you will find the gown I am requesting?
If I use Gown Locator, does Bridepower inspect the gown I am purchasing
before sending it out?
Where does bridepower get its inventory?
How often does bridepower get new inventory?
What is a “showroom item” or a “sample”?
Will my gown from bridepower be in near perfect condition?
How long will it take to receive my gown from bridepower?
What does "In stock" mean?
What are Mega-Markdowns and why are some gowns labeled Mega-Markdowns
and Online Ordering Only?
What about Alterations and Sizing?
How do I take my own measurements?
How many sizes can a gown be altered?
What alterations are normally done to a dress to make it fit?
What alterations can be done to slightly change the look of a dress?
When should I have my gown altered?
How much will alterations cost?
What about pressing?
What if I can’t decide between two gowns?
What about pressing?
Why do some gowns say "Make Offer" next to the price?
If I use "Make Offer", am I obligated to purchase the gown at my offer
price?
What thickness are your save the date magnets?
What is the size of your save the date wedding magnets?
Can I have the colors on my save the date magnet match the colors of my
wedding?
Who do I need to send a save the date magnet or wedding announcement to?
When should I send my save the date magnets?
Are envelopes included with save the date magnets?
How much will it cost to mail my save the date magnets?
How long until I get my proof?
Will I get a proof of my order before you print it?
When should I send my wedding invitations?
Can I send in a picture to be used as the background of my save the date
magnet?
In what resolution should I submit my photo?
I don't see the design I like in the colors I need, can you change the
colors?
What size are the envelopes that come with my save the date magnets?
Does the design that I like come in any other color options?
How do I view my proof?
How can I submit a new photo for my order?
FAQ's for sellers
FAQ's for customers
What is the Gown Locator/Gown Notifier?
If there is a particular gown that you are searching for that
bridepower does not have this is for you!
There are two options:
Gown Locator
You have decided on a particular gown and wish to have bridepower locate a sample
at a discounted price. A bridepower customer service representative will contact
you. A small locator fee will apply ONLY if we locate the desired gown.
Gown Notifier
You have NOT fully decided on a particular gown but wish to have
bridepower call you should this gown come in to our inventory. There
is of course no guarantee that we will ever receive this gown. However, should it
come in, you will be notified if this gown comes in by phone or email. Your Gown
Locator will stay on file for 60 days.
What is the Gown Locator fee?
The Gown Locator fee is for the Gown Locator request only.
If there is a particular gown that you would like to find the sample of,
we will work and try to find it for you.
The locator fee is $50.00 and is refundable if we do not find the sample that you
are looking for with your specifications for at least 40% off the suggested retail
price. For more information about the refundable
gown locator fee, please see our Internet Return Policy.
Are the gowns still returnable if they are purchased thru Gown
Locator.
Yes, please see our Internet Return Policy for
more information on our return policy.
What is the likelihood that you will find the gown I am requesting?
bridepower will make every attempt to use its
resources to find the requested gown. The
more open you are to the size and color of the gown, the better the chances are. We aim to locate the gown within 30 business
days of receiving your request. For more
information about our gown locator feature please email or call us!
If I use Gown Locator, does Bridepower inspect the gown I am
purchasing before sending it out?
Yes, Bridepower inspects every gown and guarantees the condition. We make any necessary
repairs and even clean the gown if required.
Where does bridepower get its inventory?
bridepower works in collaboration with a network of upscale bridal retailers, manufacturers
who have excess inventory for a variety of reasons. This inventory is usually showroom
items or samples. bridepower can therefore provide it's bride's with the largest
selection of high-end designer gowns at heavily discounted prices.
How often does bridepower get new inventory?
bridepower website is updated daily. bridepower’s inventory changes frequently
with new shipments arriving about every 3-6 weeks. The best way to keep up on new
shipments is to sign-up with us and receive email notifications of when new gowns
arrive and are available to view online.
What is a “showroom item” or a “sample”?
Many manufacturers require their retailers to buy a minimum number of pieces to
be used as showroom items or samples. These gowns are for bride's to try on and
generally are either size 8 or 10. These gowns may be tried on several times or
not at all depending on the traffic in the store. The gowns are all in "near
perfect condition".
Will my gown from bridepower be in near perfect condition?
Yes, bridepower inspects every gown thoroughly and makes sure it is in near perfect
condition. Your satisfaction is guaranteed-please see our policies.
If the gown requires cleaning or a small repair, bridepower provides these services
at no charge to its brides. If you order a gown it may take up to 5 weeks to receive
your gown due to these services.
How long will it take to receive my gown from bridepower?
Because bridepower sells its inventory off-the-rack, there is no need to wait 5-12
months for your gown. When you put an order, your gown will be shipped from bridepower
within 3-5 weeks and usually even sooner. You will receive an email upon ordering
about the shipping information. You will receive an email upon ordering about the
shipping information.
What does "In stock" mean?
"In stock" indicates whether the gown is currently available and on the
floor at our Newton store. If it states "No longer available", we do not
have this gown currently, but may receive it again in a future shipment. If you
are sure you want that gown, use our Gown Locator feature. Then if this gown should
come in again, we can notify you. If you have questions about the dress, use the
inquiry
What are Mega-Markdowns and why are some gowns labeled Mega-Markdowns and Online
Ordering Only?
"Mega-Markdowns" Describe a select group of heavily discounted gowns that
may be purchased online at bridepower.com only. Gowns priced
BELOW $400 ARE NOT available to try on or purchase at
the VOWS Bridal Outlet showroom; they are only for sale over the bridepower website.
If you would like to try one of these gowns on, we can ship it to you. For all gowns
priced at $499 and below, bridepower will not provide any cleaning or repair to
these gowns. This way we can ship the gown out immediately. They may need a general
cleaning or some minor repairs, but are all considered to be in good to excellent
condition. These gowns may be returned if they don't work out for you- please visit
our Internet Policies for our return policies.
What about Alterations and Sizing?
A commonly asked question is about bridal sizing. Wedding gowns run small. If you
are a 10 in regular dresses you are most likely to be a size 12 or 14 in a wedding
gown. The rule to find your bridal size is to add one size to your normal street
clothing size. If you have any questions about our inventory and alterations please
Ask Us! or call us at 1-866-THE-GOWN.
A qualified wedding gown seamstress/tailor in your local area should perform any
alterations.
How do I take my own measurements?
Each designer has its own size chart, but generally sizing is fairly uniform between
designers.
It is advisable not to attempt to take your own measurements. Using a measuring
tape, have someone else measure:
Bust - Run the tape along the fullest part of your breast and around your back going
under your arms. (Not your bra size)
Waist - Find the smallest part of your waist, it is usually just above your belly
button
Hips - Find the widest part of your hips on the hip bone.
In your inquiries, provide us with these measurments so that we may better serve
you and let you know about a particular gown's "fit" for you.
How many sizes can a gown be altered?
Generally, gowns can be sized down a few sizes by a qualified wedding gown seamstress.
If there is a specific gown you are interested in and have questions regarding alterations,
please Ask Us! by using the inquiry button for that gown.
Many gowns can also be altered up slightly by a professional bridal seamstress.
It does depend on the gown and designer; so if there is a gown that you are concerned
about the sizing, please send an email to
consultant@bridepower.com for specific gown information.
What alterations are normally done to a dress to make it fit?
A number of alterations can be made:
1) Side seams and Back Seams - The side seams and back seam in the torso can be
taken in or let out to make a wedding dress fit a bride. This is true even for gowns
ordered to size. Wedding gowns are usually made to allow the side seams to be let
out up to 3 inches or 1-2 sizes*.
Additionally, the back seam often can be let out slightly to size up further.
*Depending on the gown
2) Shoulders - It is also common for shoulder seam to be taken in to bring up a
gown.
3) Hem - The length of a dress can be shortened only and is affected by the height
of the shoe you are planning to wear. Some gowns can only be shortened from the
waist. Other gowns can only be shortened by taking up the hemline.
4) Bustle - The bustle is a way to hook the train up in the back so that the dress
can be worn comfortably after the ceremony. Bustling a dress is part of the alterations
for any gown that has an attached train.
What alterations can be done to slightly change the look of
a dress?
(See our glossary for terms)
Adding a strap to a strapless gown
Shortening the length of the train
Changing long sleeve to cap sleeve or tank style
Changing a short sleeve to a cap sleeve
Changing a tank style gown to a sleeveless
When should I have my gown altered?
You should start alterations 2-4 months before your wedding. If your weight fluctuates
a great deal, try to go a little closer to your wedding date. You will require 2-3
fitting appointments so leave plenty of time.
When should I have my gown altered?
You should start alterations about 4-5 months before your wedding. We recommend
contacting the seamstress you plan to use as early as possible to find out when
you should schedule your first fitting with them. Every seamstress will vary in
the number of fittings and the amount of time it will take to alter your gown. You
will require 2-4 fitting appointments so leave plenty of time.
How much will alterations cost?
Obviously, a number of factors weigh in to the overall cost of alterations. Depending
on the city you live, your seamstress, and the designer and details of your gown.
Then if you want to change the style of it in someway may also increase the cost
of you alteration. We have included below some guidelines to give you an idea of
how much seamstresses generally charge for each type of alteration.
Hem (alters length) $75.00 and up
Side Seams/backseams: (alters fit of bodice) $45.00 and up
Shoulders: (raises gown up) $25.00 and up
Sleeves: (to alter length) $35.00 and up
Sleeves: (to change style) $40.00 and up
Bustle: (keeps train up for ceremony) $85.00 and up. The style of bustle will vary
depending on the length of the train, the silhouette of the gown, and the fabric.
Your seamstress will help you decide which bustle is best for your dress.
Bra Cups: $25.00 and up
What about pressing?
Pressing for any gown is done after alterations and a few days before your wedding.
It can be done either by your seamstress or a dry cleaner. Be sure to ask your seamstress
whether they will be pressing the gown. There usually is an additional charge for
this service other than your alteration cost. If the wedding will be in another
state/country than that of where the alterations are being done you will need to
find someone else to press your gown. The pressing should be done as close to the
wedding date and the wedding site as possible. Be sure to find out in advance how
much time they will need to press the gown. Some places will require the gown 72
hours before the wedding.
What if I can’t decide between two gowns?
Multiple Gown Orders
If you would like to purchase more than one gown at a time from bridepower.com,
shipping cost applies to each gown. We can only accept a maximum of 2 gowns back
for a refund. Please send an email to consultant@bridepower.com
with any questions. See shopping cart for detailed shipping costs.
Does bridepower ship internationally?
International Orders
Yes, we ship internationally! Different shipping rates apply. For security purposes,
we may ask for additional information before we can process your order. See shopping
cart for detailed shipping costs. Please send an email to
consultant@bridepower.com with any questions.
Customs, Duties, and Taxes
Please note: It is a legal requirement that we declare the full value of the goods
on all packages destined outside the European Union, and shipments may be subject
to import duties and taxes, which are levied once a shipment reaches your country.
Additional charges for customs clearance must be borne by you; unfortunately we
have no control over these charges and cannot predict what they may be. In the event
of returning goods on which duty has been paid, if you have paid import duty for
goods received, and subsequently return the goods to us, it should be possible for
you to claim a refund of duties from your local Customs authority. To do this, you
will need to show them proof of duty paid and proof of export (e.g. certificate
of posting) when claiming your refund.
Why do some gowns say "Make Offer" next to the price?
"Make Offer" gowns are gowns we have decided to sell where brides can name their
price. We believe this will make our gowns more affordable for brides. Since we
have many brides interested in many gowns at any one time, we would like to offer
them the chance to "bid" on this particular gown or "Make an Offer" for it. If the
offer is reasonable, we will accept the bid and the bride gets a great price. Even
if you make an offer for a gown, you are still not obligated to purchase it at that
price and we are not obligated to sell it at that price. We both have to agree to
it via email.
If I use "Make Offer", am I obligated to purchase the gown
at my offer price?
Even if you make an offer for a gown, you are still not obligated to purchase it
at that price and we are not obligated to sell it at that price. We both have to
agree to it. So, give it a try!
What thickness are your save the date magnets?
All of our save the date magnets are 20 mil in thickness...about the thickness of
a credit card while still being flexible.
What is the size of your save the date wedding magnets?
Our save the date magnets are 3.5 x 4 inches. The perfect size that can still be
mailed at the 1 ounce rate.
Can I have the colors on my save the date magnet match the colors
of my wedding?
Most of our designs come in a variety of color combinations. We think we’ve got
all the bases covered when it comes to wedding color schemes, so take your time
and look around. If the specific product that you are looking at is offered in other
color combinations we will notify you on the detail page. You can also shop for
your save the date magnets or wedding invitations by color scheme.
Who do I need to send a save the date magnet or wedding announcement
to?
You should send a save the date magnet or announcement to each household that is
going to receive an invitation. Don’t use the total amount of wedding guests as
the total amount of save the date magnets, announcements, or invitations to send.
You only need to send one per household.
When should I send my save the date magnets?
You should have your save the date magnets in the mail 6-12 months before the date
of your wedding. Consider sending them 9 – 12 months ahead of time if the wedding
is out of town or if you have quite a few guests coming from out of town.
Are envelopes included with save the date magnets?
Yes! Envelopes are included with your save the date magnet order. The envelopes
are white and measure 3 5/8 x 5 1/8, just big enough to be mailed at the standard
1 ounce rate. You will have the option to add return address printing on your envelopes
as well as extra blank envelopes during checkout.
How much will it cost to mail my save the date magnets?
Our standard size save the date magnets (3.5 x 4 inches) weigh 1/2 of an ounce each.
This allows you to mail your save the date magnets at the 1 ounce rate (that’s just
1 stamp). How long until I get my proof?
You will get an email notifying you that your proof is ready within 2 business days
(usually 1!).
Will I get a proof of my order before you print it?
Proofs are included with many of our wedding products including save the date magnets
and invitations. Your proof will be posted to your account on our website. You will
need to log in to your account and click on your order # to view your proof.
When should I send my wedding invitations?
Typically, wedding invitations are sent approximately 6 to 8 weeks prior to the
wedding date. This gives your guests time to make travel arrangements if they are
coming from out of town.
Can I send in a picture to be used as the background of my
save the date magnet?
Yes, just select our “custom” save the date wedding magnet. From there you will
upload your image and type in the text that you want printed. We will send you a
proof of your save the date magnet so you can make sure you like the design.
In what resolution should I submit my photo?
The higher the resolution the better. We recommend at least 300 dpi for the best
print quality. Most thumbnails or smaller images thay you "pull" off of a photo
storage site are not high enough resolution to provide a good quality print. As
a rule of thumb, the larger the picture opens up on your screen, the better it will
be for printing.
I don't see the design I like in the colors I need, can you
change the colors?
In most cases, yes! If there are not any photos as the background or structure of
the design then it won't be a problem to change the colors to whatever you desire.
If the design is based on a photo (like a flower or a picture of a church) then
we cannot change the color of the picture. If you are not sure if your favorite
design can be changed just give us a call and we'll let you know. To request the
colors of a design to be changed just type your instructions in the additional instructions
box.
What size are the envelopes that come with my save the date
magnets?
The envelopes that come with your save the date magnets are 3 5/8 x 5 1/8 inches.
Just slightly bigger than the magnet.
Does the design that I like come in any other color options?
A lot of our designs do come in a variety of color options. When you have your product
on your screen, click on the "view similar products" link towards the top right
of your screen. A new window will pop up showing you the different colors in which
that design is available.
How do I view my proof?
When your proof is ready we will post it to your account on our website. Just click
on "My Account" at the top of the page. After you log in you will see your order
with a status of "pending approval". Click on your order # to bring up the order
details. Towards the bottom of that page you will see a button that says "view proof".
How can I submit a new photo for my order?
If you are not happy with the photo that you submitted you can submit a new one
by emailing it to Barbara@bridepower.com. Please be sure to refer to your order
# so that we can match it up with your order and provide you with a new proof.
FOR SELLERS:
Q: Why list your gown with bridepower.com?
A: bridepower.com is known for being the “GO-TO” site for brides searching for their
dream wedding gown at an affordable price.
Q: Where will my listing be posted?
A: A FREE listing will be posted on our partner sites: blog.bridepower.com and powerbrides.com.
A PAID listing will be posted on our main site bridepower.com.
Q: How much is a paid listing?
A: A paid listing is $30 per listing and your item will be posted for 180 days.
Q: If I select a FREE listing, am I able to change this over to a paid listing before
my 30 days has expired?
A: Yes, you can change your listing over to a paid listing at anytime by clicking
on the UPGRADE link on your listing. A paid listing will feature your item on our
main site bridepower.com versus a free listing which will be posted on our partner
sites: blog.bridepower.com and powerbrides.com.
Q: If my item has not been purchased in 30 days when my free listing expires, am
I am to post it again for free for another 30 days?
A: Yes, you may post your item as many times as you would like with the free listing.
However, you may have better luck with a paid listing on bridepower.com. This is
our main site and receives more bride traffic daily, allowing your listing more
views.
Q: If I list a gown with brideower.com, will my email or contact information be
posted online?
A: No. You will be listed anonymously. A customer will be able to contact you via
your post unless you choose to include your information in the listing.
Q: As a seller, am I allowed to set my own price?
A: Yes, as the seller you set the price for your gown.
Q: Will the gown I am selling be posted immediately?
A: Your listing will be posted as soon as it is approved by bridepower.com. This
process can take up to 72 business hours.
Q: Am I obligated to accept returns?
A: No. You set your own return policy. However, a return policy is strongly encouraged,
as a potential customer may be hesitant to purchase something without a return policy.
Q: Am I allowed to update my listing anytime?
A: Yes, you can update and change your listing anytime!
Q: Are there any requirements for a gown I wish to sell on bridepower.com?
A: Yes, bridepower.com only accepts qualified gowns to be listed on the Sell Your
Gown portion of the website. A qualified gown is one that retails for $1000 and
up; gowns must be no older than 3 years of age; the condition of the gown must be
in good to excellent condition (with appropriate notes detailing condition) for
the customer.
Q: What does GOOD condition mean versus EXCELLENT condition?
A: bridepower recommends that a gown in EXCELLENT condition is brand new- never
been tried on, or has only been tried on a few times. A gown in EXCELLENT condition
should NOT need any cleaning or any repair work. A gown in GOOD condition has been
tried on and may need: a general overall cleaning some repairs.
FOR CUSTOMERS:
Q: Are gowns listed by 3rd Party Sellers available at the VOWS Bridal Outlet showroom?
A: No, gowns listed available by 3rd Party Sellers are not available at the VOWS
Bridal Outlet showroom. These gowns are available thru a 3rd Party and are at a
location specified by that individual seller. Please contact a particular seller
for information regarding their listing and the location of their item.
Q: Does bridepower.com have any influence on the pricing of a 3rd Party Seller gown?
A: No. The pricing is solely determined by the individual seller.
Q: Have bridepower.com consultants seen or inspected gowns available by 3rd Party
Sellers?
A: No, bridepower has not seen or inspected these gowns in person. We DO monitor
listings and have strict requirements for any listing posted on bridepower.com.
However, bridepower does not have full control over what is being sold by 3rd Party
Sellers. Please consider your purchases carefully.
Q: What does GOOD condition mean versus EXCELLENT condition?
A: bridepower recommends that a gown in EXCELLENT condition is brand new- never
been tried on, or has only been tried on a few times. A gown in EXCELLENT condition
should NOT need cleaning or any repair work. A gown in GOOD condition has been tried
on and may need a general overall cleaning and may need some repairs.
Q: What if the gown I purchase thru a 3rd Party Seller isn’t what I expected?
A: All 3rd Party gowns listed on bridepower.com have their own return policy as
identified by the seller in their listing. It is your responsibility to be aware
of a sellers return policy and it’s guidelines before making a purchase. A seller
is not required to accept returns, although it is strongly recommended.
Q: Can I contact a seller for more information about their listing?
A: ABSOLUTELY! In every listing there is a CONTACT SELLER button. This will allow
you to email any questions or concerns you have to the seller directly. We encourage
you to communicate with the seller regarding their item so you are confident in
your purchase.
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