After You Say Yes
From placing your order to preparing for the big day, find out what happens after you've found your dress.
At a Glance
Congratulations! Once you say "yes," we'll take your measurements, place your order (or prepare your off-the-rack gown), review the next steps, and answer any remaining questions so you know exactly what to expect.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Finding your wedding dress is an unforgettable moment—and we're just getting started. After you've celebrated with your family and friends, your stylist will take professional measurements, review your purchase, discuss estimated delivery timelines, and explain what happens next, including alterations and your gown pickup. We want you to leave feeling excited and confident, knowing that your wedding dress journey is in experienced hands from this moment until your wedding day.
Did You Know?
Your measurements are used to recommend the best bridal size to order. Wedding dresses are almost always altered after they arrive to create your perfect fit.
At a Glance
Most special-order wedding dresses arrive in approximately 4–6 months, although timelines vary by designer. Alterations should also be factored into your wedding timeline.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Many brides are surprised to learn that wedding dresses aren't typically sitting in a warehouse waiting to ship. Most gowns are made specifically for each bride after the order is placed. Once your gown arrives at Wendy's Bridal Columbus, we'll inspect it carefully before contacting you to schedule your next appointment. From there, your alterations journey begins so your dress is perfectly fitted for your wedding day. Shopping about a year before your wedding provides the most flexibility and allows plenty of time for ordering, alterations, and any customizations.
Did You Know?
Alterations usually require an additional 2–3 months, making early shopping one of the best ways to reduce wedding planning stress.
At a Glance
In many cases, yes. Some designers offer rush production for an additional fee, depending on the style and your wedding date.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
If your wedding is approaching sooner than expected, don't panic. Every designer has different production schedules, and many offer rush options when timing allows. Our stylists will review your wedding date and help determine whether a rush order is available, whether an in-stock gown is the better choice, or whether one of our ready-to-wear designer samples is the perfect solution. Our goal is always to help you find a beautiful dress that arrives on time— without unnecessary stress.
Did You Know?
Some brides find their dream dress in our off-the-rack collection and are able to take it home the very same day.
At a Glance
You still have options. Whether your wedding is just weeks or a few months away, we'll help you explore rush orders, in-stock gowns, and ready-to-wear designer samples.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
One of the biggest misconceptions is that it's "too late" to find your dream dress. Every year, we help brides with shorter timelines find beautiful gowns that fit both their wedding date and their style. Depending on your timeline, we may recommend rush ordering, selecting a gown that's already available, or shopping our extensive off-the-rack collection. The most important thing is to be honest about your wedding date from the beginning so we can recommend the best options for you.
Did You Know?
Many brides planning weddings in just a few months successfully find their dream dress thanks to rush ordering and ready-to-wear inventory.
At a Glance
After ordering your dress, you'll simply wait for it to arrive, begin alterations when it's time, and look forward to seeing your wedding-day vision come together.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Once your gown has been ordered, there's nothing you need to worry about right away. We'll contact you as soon as your dress arrives at our boutique. Your next major milestone will be alterations, where our experienced inhouse alterations team will customize your gown to fit you beautifully. This is also when many brides finalize accessories such as veils, sleeves, belts, or other finishing touches. Before you know it, you'll be picking up your completed gown and preparing for one of the most exciting days of your life. We'll be with you every step of the way—from saying "yes" to walking down the aisle.
Did You Know?
Many brides say the moment they try on their altered gown is when it truly feels like their wedding dress.
Still have questions? Head back to our Resource Center or contact our styling team.