At Always and Forever we pride ourselves in our attention to detail and customer service, in order to give you the full attention you deserve we like to book you one of our experienced consultants, this is why appointments are necessary.
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Why do I need to make an appointment to try on wedding gowns?
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How long is my appointment?
Bridal gown appointments are usually 1 hour.
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Who should I bring to my appointment?
Bring your closest family member or friend whose opinion you value, who knows your personality well and with whom you want to share the experience of buying your gown.
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What should I bring to my appointment?
We suggest bring any pictures of dresses you’ve seen on pintrest, magazines, on social media, or that you’ve tried on elsewhere. Bring an open mind remember this is a journey which should be fun experience and don’t be surprised if you find “YOUR DRESS” on your first visit this is not unusual.
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What size gowns are available in store?
Our sample sizes vary average 12, 14, however we do have samples in 8, 10, along with a range of some smaller and larger sizes.
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When should I order my Accessories
We always suggest trying everything on together at the time of purchasing your gown, as several designers can take a few months to order. If unsure whether you wish to where a veil or headpiece you can still purchase from some designers at a later date. You may just be limited to whom can supply in the time frame and if they have available stock.
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Can prices change
Yes, we usually are notified every 6 months on prices changes. However due to international currency conversions and exchange fees on some gowns, this can happen more frequently. This is where Sales are a good way to seek value for money on purchases of all existing stocked gowns.
PURCHASING MY GOWN
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How far in advance do I need to order my gown?
It is never to early to start looking for your gown. An ideal time is around 8 – 12 months prior to your planned wedding date. This is based on lead times for manufacture, as well as fitment of your gown and any customisation that you may require. Some designers are also able to offer rush delivery on gowns, this does incur a fee on most occasions. However if there is not enough time even for a rush order some you may be able to purchase the sample gown from the rack.
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What is a special-order gown?
Most gowns are special-order. A special-order gown is made specifically for you by a designer, based on the measurements we take that determines the size we order for you, the designer uses their pattern that is closest to your measurements ie size 6, 8 and so on to create your gown. We then fit it to perfection for your body.
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What are the price ranges for your gowns?
Our stunning collection of gowns start average between $2000 to $3000, However we start under $1000 and go up to around $7,000. Off-the-rack samples are usually discounted up to 70% off.
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When should I expect to receive my gown?
Typically your gown arrives 4 – 6 months from ordering unless otherwise specified. Your dress is delivered directly to us from the designer. We then have a quality control check on each gown. Once we are satisfied the gown is perfect, we’ll call you to schedule your fitting and final payment.
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How do I pay for my gown?
We except all major credit cards, Visa/Mastercard as well as cash. On placement of your order a 50% deposit is required. When your gown arrives in store and passes our quality control check, we’ll contact you to schedule your fitting. At that point, we require payment of the remaining 50% balance. If purchasing a sample gown off the rack, we require 100% payment at the time of purchase.
FITTINGS
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When shall I schedule my first fitting?
We’ll contact you when your dress has arrived and then schedule a fitting; generally, these fittings will be around 6-8 weeks before your.
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What should I bring to my first fitting?
We advise you bring your shoes and if you are wearing any special undergarments on your wedding day, in order to have your gown properly fitted through the bodice and hemline.
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How many fittings will I need?
Usually, 2-3 fittings are required to ensure a perfect fit. After the final fitting, your gown is pressed ready for you to take home.
SHIPPING
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Will you ship my gown out of Melbourne for me?
Yes, we can ship your gown within Australia and anywhere else in the world you require. Shipping fees apply.
OTHER QUESTIONS
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What is a trunk show?
A trunk show is an in-store event by an individual designer, this usually takes place lasting one to three days, where you can view and buy from a designer’s latest collection long before they hit the stores here in Australia. When finding the dress of your dreams at a trunk show, it is always good to be prepared to make a decision that day, as gowns will not be in store once the trunk show is finished. Click here to view Trunk Shows
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What does a rush order mean?
This is where the Designer may need to cut and ship your gown faster than their normal delivery time frame, it is not always possible but when we can we will offer a rush” order, this entails an additional fee by the designer. In some cases, your gown may arrive 1-4 weeks before your wedding.
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HELP! I’m getting married in less than a few months – is still possible to get a gown from you?
Yes we can definitely help. Your options include buying one of our samples gowns off the rack. We also suggest a consultation with one of our consultants as some designers may still be able to meet your time frame.
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What if I still have more questions.
Please feel free to contact us, we would be more than happy to assist in answering any further questions or queries you may have.