Brides & Weddings Magazine
By Lisa Beth Miller
Sponsored by Tang’s Bridal and Alterations
Ready to shop for your perfect wedding gown? Of course you are! One of the most fabulous places to shop for your dream dress is Tang’s Bridal and Alterations in Manassas.
We talked to Bella Land, the marketing and design specialist at Tang’s, and the boutique’s lead stylist, Sandi Driscoll about what brides should expect at their very first dress shopping appointment.
We all know that shopping for your wedding gown can be stressful. It is different from any other type of retail challenge. Many brides turn the shopping day(s) into an event that involves lots of participants, and few truly know what to expect.
“What makes dress shopping at Tang’s different/unique is our mission. We take great care to make the experience as stress-free and memorable as possible for every bride that works with us. We specialize in alterations, which makes this process for a bride to go from finding a gown to having it fit perfectly. It is absolutely a seamless process!” said Sandi.
When preparing for the appointment, there are a few things that the bride can do to make the appointment a success. For starters, she needs to truly be ready to try on dresses. “Brides are encouraged to bring neutral undergarments, a great support system, and an open mind. Come ready to have a great experience and try on some beautiful dresses!” said Bella.
While many brides like to bring pictures of gowns they love, it is important to remember that dresses may look different in real life and on her own body. “While pictures can provide helpful direction, it is difficult to see every detail in the wedding gown. Seeing a dress in person is significantly better than on paper or a screen!” Bella said. “From the moment that you walk through the door, our stylist is there supporting you every step of the way during the appointment. Appointments last an average of one hour and 20 minutes,” Sandi added.
So, how many opinions are truly needed at the bridal gown shopping appointment? Fewer than you may think! “We recommend bringing one to four adults (ages 10 and up). Four guests is the absolute maximum given the space of our studio. We want everyone to be comfortable!” Bella said.
Regardless of what you envision for your dress, try to have an open mind when first shopping. Allow the stylist to show you one gown in each silhouette. Try on an A-line dress, a ball gown, a fit and flare, and a sheath. Brides are often surprised to realize which styles actually flatter their shape! Also keep an open mind regarding the color of your gown. Ivory, champagne, or blush tones may look prettier against your skin tone than a stark snow white!
Want to do a little research before your first visit to Tang’s? This boutique carries Salt Lake City Based Maggie Sottero Designs. Maggie has three different collections: Rebecca Ingram, Maggie Sottero, and Sottero & Midgley. Tang’s carries dresses from all three collections in their beautiful Northern Virginia studio.
Additionally, Tang’s offers alterations and tuxedo rental or purchase.
Contact Tang’s to make your appointment for gown shopping today! Bridal gown shopping appointments take place in their fabulous studio space at 9036 Sudley Road. For bridal alterations, appointments take place at their primary location in the Canterbury Village Shopping Center right down the road at 8675 Sudley Road, Manassas, Virginia.
