Are you thinking about attending a bridal trunk show? You’re in luck! Today we’re talking all about trunk shows what they are, why you should attend one, and how to make the most out of your experience.
Trunk Show vs. Sample Sale: What’s the Difference?
If you’re just getting started on your wedding dress shopping journey, you may be wondering what the difference is between a trunk show and a sample sale. Or are they essentially the same thing? The short answer is that they are two entirely different events! A trunk show is an event hosted by a bridal boutique to showcase a designer’s latest collection of bridal gowns. Sometimes, the designer will be present during the trunk show. These can be a one-day-only event, but they typically last over the course of a few days. On the flip side, a sample sale is when a bridal boutique sells the wedding dresses that have been tried on by brides in the store. These are typically sold at a steep discount ranging from 10 percent to 80 percent. The discount all depends on how old the dress is, whether or not it’s discontinued, and how much wear and tear is on the dress.
WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND ONE
Now, you may be wondering why you should attend a trunk show. What benefits do you get from it?
You might snag a rare wedding dress
One of the biggest perks to attending a trunk show is the fact that you get a chance to snag a rare wedding dress. These dresses are typically from a brand new collection. The designer is trying to get feedback on the collection from brides who attend, and the dresses will be gone from the shop once the trunk show is over. Because of this, you will likely be one of the few (and first!) brides in your area to have that specific gown. How awesome is that?!
You might get a chance to ask the expert
Trunk shows often have the designer in-shop during at least one of the trunk show days. Or, they will sometimes have another representative from the designer’s team there. This gives you the chance to talk directly to the expert! They can get a feel for your vision and style and give you recommendations on some of their dresses that will best suit you. Plus, you can ask them directly about any alterations to find out if they’ll be doable.
You could get a slight discount
Finally, a trunk show will typically give you the chance to get a slight discount on your dress usually 10%. This is a really good deal for a brand new wedding dress!
TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR DREAM DRESS AT A TRUNK SHOW
Finally, if you’re considering attending a trunk show, here are some of our top tips for you to make the most out of your experience.
Try on other designers’ dresses
Just because you are at a specific designer’s trunk show, doesn’t mean that you can’t try on other dresses in the shop. You have the entire shop at your service! Try on other dresses that might suit your style and vision. You never know what you’ll end up falling in love with!
Do some research
Before you book an appointment, check out the designer’s website first to get a feel of his or her latest collection. Are the styles something that you envision yourself wearing? If not, it would probably be better for you to book an appointment during another trunk show or on a day where there are no events going on. That way, someone else who really loves the collection can have your spot!
Wear the right undergarments
As with any bridal appointment, be sure to wear the right undergarments. We typically suggest sticking to nude underwear and your favorite strapless bra!
Bring the right people with you
Last but not least, make sure that you bring the right people with you. We suggest sticking to about three of your closest family members and/or friends such as your mom, best friend, and sister. Keep in mind that too many contrasting opinions can make the journey of finding your wedding dress much more difficult! Keeping the entourage to a minimum will do you so many favors.
WHAT NEXT?
Have you decided that you want to attend a trunk show? Congratulations! You’re one step closer to finding your dream wedding dress. All of our upcoming trunk shows and events will be listed here. Currently, we have an upcoming Sophia Tolli Trunk Show from January 7-11, 2021 to showcase her newest collection. Click here to book an appointment if you’d like to join us! Featured Image Photo by nikki gibson on Unsplash