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BRIDAL GOWNS
When should I start looking for my wedding dress?
It is never too soon to start searching for your perfect gown. We recommend ordering 6-12 months prior to your wedding date. Refer to product pages for estimated ship dates. Rush cuts and purchasing off the rack are options if your wedding date is sooner.
Do you sell gowns off the rack?
Yes, all of our bridal gowns current and discontinued are able to be sold off the rack.
What sizes are your samples in?
We carry a large assortment of sizes from 2-28W. We can also order sizes 2-30
Are you an authorized retailer of the designers on-site and how do you obtain your gowns?
Heartstrings Bridal and www.HeartstringsBridal.com is an authorized retailer of all of the designers and collections featured on our website. The dresses that you order come directly from each manufacturer and we are listed as authorized dealers on our designer's websites.
What if I need my dress sooner?
Most designers will offer a rush cut at an additional charge. Rush cuts generally ship 7-9 weeks depending on the designer. Some designers will also have gowns in hanging stock which will ship in 4-6 weeks.
How do I order fabric?
Fabric can be ordered from our customer service department at an additional charge. Please note that fabric is cut from a different bolt of fabric (unless ordered with the initial order, which may result in a slight dye lot variation from your dress. Fabric generally takes 4-10 weeks to ship
Do you price match?
Heartstrings Bridal and www.heartstringsbridal.com does not match online or offline competitor’s prices. We strive to maintain superior service while offering our everyday low prices.
Why is my normal dress size different than the designer’s recommended dress size?
Wedding apparel is typically sized different from normal retail clothing, so it is not uncommon to find yourself requiring bridal apparel one or more sizes larger than your normal dress size. Most gowns average 2 sizes larger than your normal dress size. Designer’s size charts vary greatly so it is important you review the correct designer’s size chart and our Measurement Guide.
How long does it take for my merchandise to arrive?
- Bridal gowns: 12 - 16 weeks to ship from the designer.
- Bridesmaid dresses: 12 - 16 weeks.
- Flower girl dresses: 4– 16 weeks.
- Accessories: 4 - 8 weeks.
Please note: Items that are listed in stock still need to be ordered from the manufacturer and will then be shipped according to the time frame listed above
What measurements do I need to order a dress?
To select a size on the designer’s size chart, you need your bust, waist, hip and height measurement (Include your heel height). These measurements should be taken wearing undergarments to get a more exact measurement. We highly recommend getting your measurements taken by a professional. Refer to our Measurement Guide for details on how to measure. You then compare your measurements to the size chart for the designer of the gown you are ordering to determine your size. Remember, factory measurements are approximate. Be sure you use the factory size chart to aid you. Gowns are not custom-made; therefore you need to order to fit the largest part of your body and take it in where it’s too large. Sizes cannot be changed once the order has been placed.
What if I need extra length or plus sizes?
Most factories suggest that you should consider ordering extra length if you are 5’8" or taller with shoes on. Extra length is usually an additional 5" of fabric added to the dress, and you will need to hem the dress to length desired in almost every case. Remember – if not sure, it’s better to have too much length and be able to shorten than to have a dress that’s too short and can’t be let out. See the factory’s size chart for more specific information. Extra length costs extra, as do larger sizes over size 16. For these costs see the factory’s size chart.
Will the colors online be an exact match to the dress?
Online images of product colors and actual dress and swatch color vary due to display and monitor settings. To match multiple bridesmaid dresses, you must order the same style and color dress and order them all together. You are responsible for choosing the correct color for your dresses and we recommend visiting a bridal store to view the colors in person or ordering a color swatch to verify the color. See our order a swatch link.
Dress Colors and Swatches
Online images of product colors and actual dress and swatch colors may vary due to display and monitor settings. Colors vary from designer to designer. Colors with the same name that are available through multiple designers will not have an exact dye lot match. For example, a Bill Levkoff burgundy dress does not perfectly match a Venus burgundy dress. Different style dresses from the same designer may not have an exact dye lot match as they are cut from a different bolt of fabric. Some dresses are all one color. Others have a different color trim, lace, sash, belt, or liner. Please verify your color selection before placing an order, as we are not liable for mistaken color selections. Please contact customer service with questions regarding dress colors at Info@HeartstringsBridal.com
I’m Planning on Losing Weight When Should I Shop For and When Should I buy My Wedding Gown?
Every experience bridal seamstress will tell you that it is easy and inexpensive to take a wedding gown down in size. 95% of all future brides will need some alterations and when they open up side seams, taking out 1/4 inch or 4" costs the same. So if you lose weight it is easy and inexpensive to make your gown still fit you perfectly if it was purchased in a bigger size. The opposite, releasing a gown if it is too small because you put on weight can be far more expensive to do and often will not look perfect. Planning a wedding can be a stressful time and it is a mistake to add more stress because you will not fit into a dress if you don’t reach your weight goal. Most brides buy their wedding gowns 9-18 months before their weddings so they can facilitate all the other planning and purchases that revolve around the gown. You should do the same even if you are planning to lose weight. Buy the gown that fits your current weight and if you reach your weight goals it will be easy to alter to fit you beautifully. If you don’t, so what! Your gown will still fit you beautifully and remember he fell in love with you the way you are, not the way you hope to be!
How do I Buy a Sample Dress:
Dresses that are sample dresses are dresses that have been tried on in our local store but have never been worn or altered. These dresses are all considered new but are sold "as is" can have flaws that are the responsibility of the buyer. By purchasing a sample dress you are agreeing to purchase the gown as is and that you are taking responsibility of the shipping, alterations, cleaning, and steaming of the dress. Dresses listed in our sale category are assigned a value based on our consultants judgement of the condition of the dress. Please note that all of the gowns are final sale and cannot be exchanged or returned. The dresses do not include any repairs, alterations, or cleaning and the prices have been discounted from the original cost of the dress to reflect the condition of the dress. These guidelines are objective and can include but are not limited to the following conditions:
Sample Dress Guidelines:
Excellent: An excellent dress is described in like new condition and has been tried on but has very minimal cosmetic issues to the dress such as loose or missing beading, small snags, stains or makesup stains, or others flaws that can be small but unlikely noticebable.
Good: A dress in good condition may have some minor flaws ranging from missing buttons, hook and eye missing or needing repair, missing beads, or may have snags in the fabric.
Fair: A dress in fair condition may have tears at the hemline and/or seams, may need repairs to the corset or zipper back, and may have noticeable missing beads and/or stains that will require cleaning. This gowns may need replacements for buttons and beading as well.
Poor: A dress in poor condition may have any or all of the following: tears, rips, snags, will most likely need dry cleaning as well as replacements such as; zippers, lace-up back tie, buttons, beads, and straps. Overall, dresses considered in poor condition are noticeably worn, damaged and in need of repair.
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BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Where should the attendants get measured?
If they are in town we can set up an appointment to measure them at Heartstrings Bridal. If they live out of town they can e mail, call, submit their measurements online or mail their measurements in to Heartstrings Bridal.
Are you an authorized retailer of the designers on-site and how do you obtain your gowns?
Heartstrings Bridal and www.HeartstringsBridal.com is an authorized retailer of all of the designers and collections featured on our website. The dresses that you order come directly from each manufacturer and we are listed as authorized dealers on our designer's websites.
Can bridesmaids place their order separately through your web site?
Yes, bridesmaid dresses can be ordered separately, however to match multiple bridesmaid dress colors, you must order the same style and color dress and order them all together. For example, if you have 5 bridesmaids in your wedding party, select the style of dress, size and any other ordering information for each bridesmaid. Once all the dresses are in your shopping cart, follow the checkout instructions until your order is complete. If each bridesmaid dress is ordered separately, the designer cannot guarantee a dye lot match.
PLEASE NOTE: Matching Dye Lots for Bridesmaid Dresses
To match multiple bridesmaid dresses, you must order the same style and color dress and order the dresses all together. For example, if you have 5 bridesmaids in your wedding party, select the style of dress, size and any other ordering information for each bridesmaid. Once all the dresses are in your shopping cart, follow the checkout instructions until your order is complete. If each bridesmaid dress is ordered separately, the designer cannot guarantee a dye lot match.
What if I need my dress sooner?
Most designers will offer a rush cut at an additional charge. Rush cuts generally ship 7-9 weeks depending on the designer. Some designers will also have gowns in hanging stock which will ship in 4-6 weeks.
How do I order fabric?
Fabric can be ordered from our customer service department at an additional charge. Please note that fabric is cut from a different bolt of fabric (unless ordered with the initial order, which may result in a slight dye lot variation from your dress. Fabric generally takes 4-8 weeks to ship
Do you price match?
Heartstrings Bridal and www.heartstringsbridal.com does not match online or offline competitor’s prices. We strive to maintain superior service while offering our everyday low prices.
Why is my normal dress size different than the designer’s recommended dress size?
Wedding apparel is typically sized different from normal retail clothing, so it is not uncommon to find yourself requiring bridal apparel one or more sizes larger than your normal dress size. Most gowns average 2 sizes larger than your normal dress size. Designer’s size charts vary greatly so it is important you review the correct designer’s size chart and our Measurement Guide.
How long does it take for my merchandise to arrive?
- Bridal gowns: 12 - 16 weeks to ship from the designer.
- Bridesmaid dresses:12 - 16 weeks.
- Flower girl dresses: 12– 16 weeks.
- Accessories: 4 - 8 weeks.
Please note: Items that are listed in stock still need to be ordered from the manufacturer and will then be shipped according to the time frame listed above
What measurements do I need to order a dress?
To select a size on the designer’s size chart, you need your bust, waist, hip and height measurement (Include your heel height). These measurements should be taken wearing undergarments to get a more exact measurement. We highly recommend getting your measurements taken by a professional. Refer to our Measurement Guide for details on how to measure. You then compare your measurements to the size chart for the designer of the gown you are ordering to determine your size. Remember, factory measurements are approximate. Be sure you use the factory size chart to aid you. Gowns are not custom-made; therefore you need to order to fit the largest part of your body and take it in where it’s too large. If a dress is too small it could be a real problem; if it is too large a seamstress can usually alter it to fit. Sizes cannot be changed once the order has been placed.
What if I need extra length or plus sizes?
Most factories suggest that you should consider ordering extra length if you are 5’8" or taller with shoes on. Extra length is usually an additional 5" of fabric added to the dress, and you will need to hem the dress to length desired in almost every case. Remember – if not sure, it’s better to have too much length and be able to shorten than to have a dress that’s too short and can’t be let out. See the factory’s size chart for more specific information. Extra length costs extra, as do larger sizes over size 16. For these costs see the factory’s size chart.
Will the colors online be an exact match to the dress?
Online images of product colors and actual dress and swatch color vary due to display and monitor settings. To match multiple bridesmaid dresses, you must order the same style and color dress and order them all together. You are responsible for choosing the correct color for your dresses and we recommend visiting a bridal store to view the colors in person or ordering a color swatch to verify the color. See our order a swatch link.
Dress Colors and Swatches
Online images of product colors and actual dress and swatch colors may vary due to display and monitor settings. Colors vary from designer to designer. Colors with the same name that are available through multiple designers will not have an exact dye lot match. For example, a Bill Levkoff burgundy dress does not perfectly match a Venus burgundy dress. Different style dresses from the same designer may not have an exact dye lot match as they are cut from a different bolt of fabric. Some dresses are all one color. Others have a different color trim, lace, sash, belt, or liner. Please verify your color selection before placing an order, as we are not liable for mistaken color selections. Please contact customer service with questions regarding dress colors at Info@HeartstringsBridal.com
Can I have my bridesmaid dresses sent to more than one address?
For bridesmaid orders, we highly suggest shipping the entire order to the bride, where she can inspect the merchandise for proper style, color, sizes, etc., so concerns, if any, can be addressed within 5 days of receipt. If you choose to ship merchandise to an individual attendant(s), please contact customer service at Info@HeartstringsBridal.com to make arrangements. Each separate address will be charged a $15 shipping and handling fee (Continental U.S. Only). For more information regarding shipping, view our shipping page and Terms and Condition.
FLOWER GIRL DRESSES
Can I place flower girl dress orders separately?
Yes, but if more than one dress of the same style is being ordered, it is much better to place them together on one order. Dye lots are guaranteed when the bridesmaid dresses are placed together as one order. Therefore, we strongly suggest you order all flower girl dresses on one order form.
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APPOINTMENTS
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are recommended so that we may best assist you on a one to one basis. We require a consultant to be with you when you try on gowns to ensure the best experience possible. Appointments are given preference and walk ins will be accomodated if a consultant is available. If a consultant is not available you will have to schedule an appointment to come another time. On Saturday’s we do require appointments as this is a very popular day!
What items do you sell?
Heartstrings Bridal and www.heartstringsbridal.com offers traditional, couture, plus size and destination bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses, tuxedo rentals, invitations, wedding accessories, chair cover rental and ceiling draping as well as wedding planning.
Do you have all the same dresses online as you do in store?
We carryf the same designers both in store and online but we carry a few samples from each season in store. We are able to order any of the gowns shown online both in store and online. If there is a specific gown you wish to try on we recommend calling ahead to find out if we have it in stock.
Do you allow pictures?
We have contracts with our designers which do not allow us to have our clients photograph their designs before purchasing them respecting their copyrights. When you decide to purchase your gown and make your payment, we will be happy to help you take a photo in the gown.
Who Should I Bring With Me When I come For My Wedding Gown Shopping Appointment?
When shopping for a wedding gown all the experts advise not to bring too many people. Your mom and one or two other trusted individuals seem to be the perfect mix. Pick a few people who love you to come and your experience will be a lot more enjoyable and you will have a better chance of being successful in your quest. It is great to have one or two people who are close to you to give you honest opinions but bringing too many people to "poll the audience" is a recipe for disaster that may make you miss out on your perfect gown. In the end the only opinion that truly counts when picking out your wedding gown is YOURS! You want a wedding gown that will make you look and feel amazing. You are the only one that REALLY knows when they have found a gown that makes you feel this way!
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ALTERATIONS
Do you provide alterations?
We do offer alterations. We have a outside seamstress come to Heartstrings Bridal on Mondays and Wednesdays to meet with any clients needing alterations. Venecia from Said Sew has done alterations for many years and comes highly recommended. Visit the alterations page for more information.
When should I start alterations?
We suggest brides start 10-12 weeks before the wedding, and all others 4-6 weeks before the wedding.
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GOWN CLEANING AND PRESERVING
Where do I go to clean and preserve my gown after the wedding?
If a gown is not properly cleaned after the wedding it can cause stains to permanently remain in the gown. We work with a company call wedding gown preservation company; they have been in business since 1913 cleaning and preserving gowns. We have these kits for purchase in our store, or you can bring in your gown and we will send it out for you. See our Gown Preservation Link for more information.
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TUXEDO RENTAL
When is the best time to register my tuxedo rental?
We suggest as soon as you have the bridesmaid dresses ordered! There are usually several people that need to have measurements taken and we encourage you to have all measurements in to us four (4) weeks before the wedding.
Where should the attendants get measured?
If they are in town we can set up an appointment to measure them at Heartstrings Bridal. If they live out of town they can e-mail, call, send them in online or mail their measurements in to Heartstrings Bridal.
Do you carry a large selection of tux styles and vests?
Heartstrings Bridal does carry a large selection of tuxes and vests from Savvi Formal Wear.
If I need alterations on my tux what do I do?
We recommend everyone in your bridal party comes in 24-48 hours before the wedding to pick up and try on their tux. If the tux does not fit we do get a replacement for you at no charge, you will just stop back to pick up your replacement items or we can send it with another person in the same party.
Who usually wears a tuxedo for a wedding?
Anyone who is part of the wedding. That usually includes the groomsmen, ushers, fathers, grandfathers, and ring bearers.
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RETURN POLICY
What is your return policy?
All sales are final, no exchanges, and all payments are non-refundable. Your order is placed immediately with the designer who is unable to cancel, change or modify the order once placed. Please verify that the style, size, color, etc are correct prior to placing your order. We are not responsible for the current currency exchange rate. Due to the nature of the wedding industry being a one day event, we are unable to accept any return merchandise.
Defective Merchandise
All special ordered merchandise is brand new from the designer. Once we receive your merchandise we will carefully inspect the gown for correct style, sizes, colors, and defects and immediately ship the merchandise to you. Upon receipt you must inspect your merchandise immediately. If you feel your merchandise is defective, you must contact us within 3 days of receiving the merchandise for a return authorization (info@HeartstringsBridal.com). Please explain in detail your issue or concern. If we determine that your claim of defect is valid, our customer service department will issue you a return authorization number. All merchandise must be returned in the condition it was sent (brand new condition), with tags attached and unworn. Once received, our customer service representative will inspect the merchandise for defects and, if applicable, contact the designer to repair or replace your merchandise. If we find that the merchandise is not defective or has been misused, the merchandise will be shipped back to you. We will incur shipping charges on defective merchandise, but we will NOT incur shipping charges on merchandise that is found not defective or misused. All defective merchandise will only be replaced with the exact same item, no changes in size or color will be allowed.
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PAYMENT
What are your online payment options?
Through our shopping cart we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. All payments must be in U.S. currency only.
What are your in store payment options?
In store we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express as well as cash and money order.
SHIPPING
How is my online merchandise shipped?
Your package will be shipped via UPS or United States Post Office depending which carrier is the most efficient and cost effective to your address. Shipping and handling costs depend on the shipping method you choose (Standard, 2 day, next day, etc), the weight of the item, and where the order is going.
Signature is required for your package to be delivered – therefore we strongly recommend using a ship to address that has a receiving person to sign for the package. When the package leaves our shipping department, you will be e-mailed the carrier’s name, tracking number and the date it was shipped from www.HeartstringsBridal.com To receive the package in a timely manner, we suggest using a work address or residence where someone can sign for the package
Do you ship internationally?
We ship to almost any address in the world. Internationally, carriers do not always deliver to select countries and some products cannot be shipped to international destinations due to designer restrictions. If you order an item we are unable to ship, we will contact you with any alternative shipping methods or the option to cancel the undeliverable items.
What happens if I get a call that my dress is running late?
The designers give us an estimated ship date of when we can expect your gown to arrive. Please note that all special ordered dresses are made overseas in China and there are a lot of factors that can impact the speed in which your dress is made. If the designer contacts us to inform us that your gown will be coming in after the estimated ship date, we will immediately contact you. Oftentimes, dresses come in late due to customs delays or shipping delays and other factors beyond our control. We will work the manufacturer to expediate the processing of your gown and do everything we can on our end to ensure that you receive your dress before your wear date and appreciate your patience while waiting for the gown from the manufacturer.
ORDERS ALREADY PLACED
How will I know my order is accepted and when will my merchandise ship to me?
We will be notifying you throughout the ordering process. You will receive a confirmation email when your order/payment is submitted. We will email you with a tracking number and ship date when your merchandise is en route to you!
How can I check the status of my order?
You will be notified via email during various times during the ordering process. If you need additional information, contact our Customer Service Department for assistance at Info@HeartstringsBridal.com or 952.932.9090
What if I need to change a shipping address?
You can change a shipping address at any time prior to the order being shipped by us. All you need to do is e-mail a request change to: info@HeartstringsBridal.com. Please note that should any of the shipping addresses you give us be incorrect or you move and fail to notify us, UPS will charge additional fees to redirect the package. In such a case, you will owe an amount up to $20 for re-shipping; if you have a credit card on file it will be charged.
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SALES TAX
Is there sales tax?
HeartstringsBridal.com does not charge sales tax for any products shipping outside the state of Minnesota. All orders shipping within Minnesota will be charged the appropriate state and local sales tax (not applicable to clothing).
MISCELLANEOUS
Are in store services such as sizing, pick up and alterations available for online orders?
No. Online orders are handled by phone or email and in store services such as sizing, steaming, alteration and pick up are not available
Where can I contact you with additional questions?
For all questions, e-mail us at: info@HeartstringsBridal.com
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