We all have questions about the big day - here's where you'll find some answers. Got a question and need an answer? Ask us!
Q:
My daughter purchased a gown two months ago and I make a substantial down payment for the gown. She just decided to postpone and/or cancel the wedding. I phoned the bridal shop and they refused to return my deposit cheque. Is this ethical? Reta, Cornwall
A:
I'm sorry to hear that your daughter is undecided about her future wedding. It is standard practice for bridal shops to take a 50% deposit at the onset of a gown purchase. There is very little profit on wedding gowns and the stores are usually out-of-pocket when the gown arrive. If a gown is not purchased off the rack, a custom ordered gown is non-returnable to the manufacturer and often times it is difficult for the stores to sell. It would be poor business practice not to have a non-refundable deposit policy otherwise more bridal stores would go bankrupt.
Q:
I purchased my gown on a layaway plan. I have been back to the store on several occasions to make payments and want to try on my gown again. I feel that they are giving me a hard time every time I ask. I'm getting worried that something has happened to my gown. Jennifer, Toronto
A:
I can guarantee that you gown is safe and sound. The staff is trying to keep your gown in brand new condition for your wedding. Often times girls come and "visit" their gowns several times and don't realize that they leave hand marks on the seams. They are invisible until the seams are altered out (if this is needed). It is time consuming for the staff to help you change in and out of your gown and then to prepare it back for storage. I'm sure that when the time comes you will have many times to try it on.