A few weeks ago I went The White Room in Lebanon (they have another store in Murfreesboro ladies!) and Melanie, one of the store owners, was so nice to answer a few questions about the dress selection process.
How long do bride's need to start shopping before the wedding. In other words, how long does it take to order the dress, get it in the store, and get it altered?
It takes 4-6 months to get a wedding gown in. We always remind our brides that they need to take things like alterations and bridal portraits in mind when they set the deadline to order their gown. For brides who have set a short engagement….. There are several companies that offer RUSH delivery and keep some inventory in stock. We also keep a SAMPLE sale selection out year round for brides that need a gown quick or brides that enjoy a great deal on a designer gown.
What style of wedding dress is most popular right now?
A lot of brides are going for a more fitted silhouette. Rich fabrics, beading, and lace are the different directions one can go once the silhouette is chosen, although some gowns feature all three.
What style and color of bridesmaids dress is most popular right now?
Cocktail length has been the most popular style for the past couple years. Customers are seeing the length as something easy to wear again. Colors: shades of purple and gray have been the most popular this season.
What are some ways you see brides put their own style into their wedding day look?
We have a l lot of brides who make custom changes with their gown to add their own unique flare. Many do this by adding a splash of color or an accent sash, while others change the necklines or add custom straps. The White Room offers so many great accessories that helps each bride find the perfect addition for her wedding look. (one of my favorites is our monogram veil collection-- I think it is very Southern and feminine. It also serves as a great family heirloom piece for years to come).
What do you enjoy the most about working in the wedding industry?
Meeting the people and hearing their stories. Each customer has such a different story and a different goal they are trying to achieve. It is our job to help them achieve this goal. It is such a joy to work with people during the most special times of their lives. It is truly a reward!!!
How did you get started in the wedding industry?
My business partner, Erika, and I both worked here full time for the previous owner. We both ended up here as kind of an “in between” job, but fell in love with the industry and never seemed to look further. We purchased The White Room in 2006 and have since opened our second location in Murfreesboro. We are very blessed to have such a wonderful staff and such great customers to work with. I can honestly say I am excited to come to work every day!!!
What advice would you give a bride on choosing a wedding dress?
To follow her heart. We see so many brides who bring so many people in with them to look for their gown. In the end, it sometimes is the friend or mom who loves the gown more than the bride. We tell our brides to remember that this is their day. Have no regrets and get the gown you feel the best in.
What advice would you give a bride on the wedding process in general?
Keep an open mind. Also, don’t stress over the small stuff -- it will all come together. Remember- you are marrying the man of your dreams!!! That is what this is all about! Enjoy your engagement…. And come to The White Room!
Here are some images from The White Room store in Lebanon. Ladies: if you haven't found your dress yet I encourage you to visit them, they will help you find the dress you are looking for!
