I am recently engaged.  How should I get started?

Consider scheduling a Silhouette Check™, a one hour bridal fashion consulting appointment offered exclusively by Cherry Blossom Bridal.  A Silhouette Check™ allows the bride-to-be to discuss the bridal shopping process with a consultant and try on up to four popular bridal gown silhouettes so that the bride-to-be will know which gown silhouettes best flatter her figure.  Some shoppers find it helpful to come in alone for a Silhouette Check™ so that she can have questions answered and explore silhouette choices without the pressure to please others. The consultation fee for a Silhouette Check™ appointment is $50.

Are appointments required?

Yes, all customers are seen by appointment.  Your wedding is a once in a lifetime event and you deserve the time and attention of a professional consultant in a relaxing environment to maximize your shopping experience.  Bridal and bridesmaid appointments are scheduled for one and a half hour increments.  You may request an appointment via our website or by calling (202) 544-2400.  Please note that any appointment cancelled within 24 hours of the start time of the appointment will incur a $50 fee. 

What is a Trunk Show or In-Store Event?

A trunk show or other event is an opportunity for our consultants to introduce brides to designs from a specific designer or with a designated theme, often from the most recent collections available.  Designer trunk shows allow us to present gowns in styles or sizes that we do not normally have in stock.  When attending a trunk show or other event, definitely come with an open mind; bring the people whose input you need and want the most and come ready to make a decision as any designer perks or promotions (and quite often, the gowns themselves) will be available only during that trunk show or event!  The consultation fee for a trunk show appointment is $50.

 What should I bring to my appointment?

We have strapless bras and slips for you to try on with the gowns.  Bridal gowns are very heavy and fragile so a female bridal consultant will assist you in the dressing room to get in and out of the gowns.  Other things you may want to bring include photos of the style of gown you are most interested in and, if you have a particular shoe or shoe height in mind, please bring those shoes as well.

Who should I bring to my appointment?

Bring the people whose opinions you value or feel like you need to help you decide.  Since our salon is an intimate setting, we are not able to accommodate groups larger than a bride plus three guests and bringing more people could require your appointment to have to be rescheduled.  Plus, we generally find that too many people can be overwhelming for a bride and make it hard for you to decide the gown YOU love. 


Can I bring children to my appointment?

A child’s safety is our highest priority.   Our store is not a safe or secure environment for small children.   If a child is in your party, an adult other than the bride is required to attend to them for the duration of the appointment.  All children must be either in a stroller or held by a responsible adult while in the salon.  

Do you allow pets in the store?

No.  Pets are not allowed inside the store at any time.  Service animals are, of course, always welcome.

Is photography permitted?

Designers copyright all of their gowns.  Therefore, our policy does not allow photos to be taken during your appointment.  At the time of purchase, your consultant can take a photo of you in your gown and email it to you to allow you to refresh your memory throughout your wedding planning. 

What is the average price of a bridal gown at Cherry Blossom Bridal?

Our gowns average $1,200 to $3,500.

Does the salon do alterations?

Yes.  Keep in mind that gowns and dresses are sized generically and ordered based upon the largest measurement of the body.  Therefore, alterations are generally required to achieve a perfect fit.  We have experienced bridal seamstresses who can help with the custom fitting and alterations of your gown.  After your gown arrives from the designer, we will contact you to schedule an alterations appointment.

How far in advance should I shop for my gown?

We recommend shopping at least 8-12 months ahead.  Most wedding gowns take about 5-6 months to arrive when ordered.  Therefore, it is ideal to have that much time, as well as allowing 6-8 extra weeks for any alterations.  Many gowns are available on a rush for additional charges.  We also keep a selection of gowns in stock for immediate delivery.  Please inquire if your wedding date is close so we can better assist you.

How often do you get new gowns?

We receive new gowns every week.  Gowns are ordered throughout the year to stay current with the trends of the bridal industry. You are sure to be surprised by the diversity of our selections, as well as the prices.

I found a better price online.  Why should I purchase in a salon?

I’m sure you have heard the sayings about things that are too-good-to-be-true, and that certainly applies here.  When purchasing from a website or store other than a retailer authorized by the gown’s designer, you run the risk that a website has posted a photo of a gown in violation of the designer’s copyrights and that the gown eventually shipped to you won’t be the gown you think.  You could be ordering a poorly made knock off and/or not have your gown delivered in the timing promised.  Also, online orders will not be steamed or pressed.  Once you add up the costs to have a gown steamed or pressed (which we offer as a free service to our brides), your “savings” by taking the chance online may not have saved you anything.  For more information, see: http://www.morilee.com/beware; http://www.maggiesottero.com/brides_beware.aspx.  However, if a bride or bridesmaid’s budget requires securing a gown at a discount, please call to inquire about our “internet service” program.