Frequently Asked Question

We will do our best to help you find the perfect dress, shoes or accessories.  Here are some answers to some frequently asked questions.

When should I begin dress shopping?

It is best to start looking for gowns 9 to 12 months prior to your wedding date. If you find yourself in a crunch remember…

  1. Most  of our gowns are for sale off the rack
  2. Some designers can fill a rush order for you at an additional cost
  3. Some designers have limited hanging stock available for immediate delivery.

Do I need an appointment to view bridal gowns?

TBS Bridal operates by appointment only. For bridal gowns.  You may call (630) 501-1286 during business hours to look at bridesmaids.  You may stop in and browse at your leisure, but ALL trying on and fittings are by appointment only!  Please call 630-501-1286 to schedule your appointment.

We are an intimate corporate boutique with limited dressing rooms and seating areas. Our goal is always to ensure that you are number one, so we take the time allotted to help you find your perfect gown. 

We have two ways you can schedule an appointment, by phone (630) 501-1286 or online. 

How long will my appointment be?

Appointments are scheduled for one hour.  – 15 minutes for shopping; 45 minutes to try on. 

There are so many dresses to choose from, where do I begin and what should I bring to my first bridal appointment?

You may want to pick up a copy of one or two bridal magazines from the newsstand.  You can tag the pages of design elements you find attractive. 

Once we begin you will  learn valuable lessons about how to find your personal style and get the dress you've always dreamed of. You should also browse on the Internet for silhouettes and styles that you like.

Am I allowed to take pictures of gowns while I try them on?

We DO NOT  allow you to take pictures unless you purchase the gown.  Further, it conflicts with our main purpose if the session   We have contracts with many of  our designers that protect their works .  After you purchase the gown, you can take as many pictures as you like!

After my order is placed when should I expect to receive my gown?

The gowns are expected to arrive 15 – 32 weeks after you order the gown depending upon the designer of the gown and the season. The dresses are delivered directly from the designer to our store and after the gown is checked and passes quality control, we contact you so that you can schedule your first fitting appointment when you do not allow a lot of time, dresses can come in 1 to 3 weeks before the wedding.  You should give yourself at least 6 and optimally 9 months prior to the wedding date to ensure adequate delivery.

 When should I order my headpiece and veil?

Veils are available to choose when you make your gown purchase, this is the best way to assure the perfect match.  Otherwise this decision can be made at your first fitting.  Allow 6 months if you would like to order a designer veil or require  special lace or beading on it. Headpieces and special order veils should be ordered at least 4 months before your wedding date. We do not recommend waiting for your fitting to order headpieces.  We suggest you try on the gown while trying on headpieces.

Question:  Can I find other dresses like Mother of the Bride and Bridesmaid at TBS Bridal too?

TBS Bridal has a very large selection of special order evening wear gowns to choose from. You must make a separate appointment to view our eveningwear

Can I complete my entire bridal look (gown, headpiece, veil, shoes, accessories) in one appointment?

 TBS Bridal can complete your entire look in one appointment.   Our experienced consultant can help you find the perfect veil, headpiece, shoes, and accessories to match your dress.

Can I get a swatch of the color of my gown after I order it?

A swatch will be provided to you when your actual dress comes in or at your first fitting. It is best to get a swatch from your actual dress because dye lots vary and we want the swatch to match perfectly.

Do I have to pay for my gown in full at the time of purchase?

If you are receiving any form of discount the balance is due at the time of purchase.  TBS Bridal requires at least 50% deposit to process any special order gown.  On regular priced merchandise the remaining balance is due in installments as agreed upon at the time of purchase.  If you require shipping your gown out of state, the balance must be paid in full before we ship the dress. The purchase of a stock gown from TBS Bridal may also be put on layaway.

Do you sell shoes and jewelry?

TBS Bridal has a large selection of shoes and custom accessories such as necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. You do not need appointment to see accessories. You do need an appointment to view shoes, headpieces & veils.

Is there any other color I could wear besides white and still look like a bride?

 Lately many brides are incorporating color into their gowns. You can have colorful embroidery and beading or simply have a baby blue sash. You also do not have to wear a white gown. Most designers offer different shades of white, ivory, and champagne, beautiful shades of red and gold are increasingly popular.

 

What are your price ranges?

It is our goal to have something for everyone.  No matter your budget, no matter your occasion, we have the dress!

  • Our bridal gowns range from $199 to $4999!
  • Our Evening wear gowns begin at: $99 to $799.
  • Our Headpieces begin at: $49 to $399.
  • Our Shoes range from $50 to $200

Can I change my mind after I make my purchase?

 All sales are final sales and must be picked up by the wedding date.  We are happy to store your merchandise until your alterations are complete.

What should I bring to my Bridal Fitting?

  • At your fittings, you need to bring your shoes and undergarments that you will be wearing on your wedding day.   TBS Bridal has a great selection of shoes, and accessories for you to choose from, before your first fitting appointment.
  • It is necessary for your fitter to do the hemline and fit the bodice of your gown with the actual undergarments and shoes you will be wearing on your wedding day.

 When should I schedule my First Bridal Fitting?

We will call you as soon as we receive your gown from the designer. At that time you can schedule a fitting appointment with us. Generally, fittings are done as soon as the gown arrives with a final fitting one to two months prior to your wedding. You will usually need 2 or 3 fittings, to perfect the gown, after which it will be ready for you to take home.

Is there a charge for alterations?

Bridal alterations are difficult and time consuming.  They require a highly qualified seamstress to perform so that the gown looks as if nothing has ever happened to it.  Our seamstress does wonderful work and is very diligent to make sure that each and every customer is 100% satisfied with the fit of their garment.  To provide this service does require us to charge a fee.  Fees will be discussed at your fitting.   

Terms & Conditions

The Bridal Sampler - 2021 Midwest Rd. Suite 305 - Oakbrook, IL 60523 - (630) 501-1286 - All Rights Reserved

TBS Bridal is your source for Chicago Wedding Gowns, Chicago Bridesmaid Dresses, Chicago Flower Girl Dresses, Chicago Tuxedo Rentals and Chicago Wedding Planning.  We have a huge affiliation with Chicago area Wedding Professionals and can help you with every aspect of planning your wedding.