i heart shopping

Even wedding gown shopping.

As I mentioned earlier this week, I spent a good portion of my weekend in bridal shops…4 to be exact. I encountered many types of sales associates or consultants as they’re called in the fancy boutiques. I most definitely formed an opinion on how they can be helpful and how they can be down right annoying to a bride when she’s shopping for the most important garment she’ll ever wear.

Ready for a harsh synopsis of the experience?

When a sales associate can ask what style you like, what your budget is and other important pre-qualifying questions and then turn around and pull 10 gowns that fit that description: that’s helpful!

When an associate says, “There are the dresses. Take a look and let me know what you like.” That can be stressful. There are rows and rows of white fabric, in some cases covered in plastic. We need suggestions. How do we know what styles are where? Not helpful.

When she can tell you exactly how the dress is supposed to look when it’s tailored to your body: helpful.

When she has to ask everyone who works there (not just the seamstress) how the dress is meant to look (trumpet vs. mermaid for example). Not helpful.

Providing accurate product information, prices and timelines on when the dress can be ready by: helpful.

Referring to the designer by nickname and acting like she’s your BFF: not helpful. And annoying.

Intercoms blaring a request for bridal assistance. I guess it’s technically helpful to someone but an overall annoyance.

Fetching yourself water from the water cooler because you’re overheating from the lights combined with the heavy gowns: not helpful.

When she serves you and your entourage wine or champagne: very helpful.

-The perennial bridesmaid