Bridal Trunk Show Tips
- Book early! Appointments fill up fast.
- Bring inspiration photos and an open mind—you may fall for something unexpected.
- Wear comfy undergarments or shapewear for easy trying on.
- Be ready to decide—trunk show incentives often expire after the event
Why Do Bridal Shops Have Trunk Shows?
To stock their shops with delectable frocks, boutique owners choose which dresses they’d like to have in store for their specific brides. As such, most bridal boutiques don’t carry the entire collection of Lea-Ann Belter, Astrid & Mercedes, or any one designer’s gowns. How do you get your hands on the dress you’ve been stalking online if it’s not at the shop? At a bridal trunk show!What Is a Trunk Show?
Generally, every designer will send their new season of gowns on a tour to visit retailers—these visits are called trunk shows. Sometimes, trunk shows also feature a selection of gowns from previous seasons, and some events may even include accessories.
What Makes a Trunk Show Special?
Think of a trunk show as an in-store pop-up shop. Whatever comes in for the trunk show is available for a short period—usually just one weekend. After that, they’re boxed up and shipped off to the next store.
Because it takes time to fill retailers’ sample style orders, trunk shows are perfect for women who fall for just-unveiled collections. In the case of Lea-Ann Belter Bridal and Astrid & Mercedes, each dress is made by hand in our Toronto bridal workshop. That gown you saw walking the runway on Instagram? It takes months to reach shops. If you spot a dress during Bridal Week that makes your heart flutter, your chance to try it on (without a wait) is during a trunk show.
How Do Trunk Show Appointments Work?
Sometimes the designer or a representative will arrive with the dresses to work with brides, which always makes things super exciting. When our designer, Lea-Ann or Karen, our rep joins our trunk shows, all kinds of customization magic happens—brides may even receive a sketch of their unique gown. Boutiques also generally offer incentives (such as 10% off) to purchase a gown during a trunk show event.
Appointments during a trunk show are typically managed the same as they usually are—brides work one-on-one with a boutique’s stylist to find just the right dress. Unless, of course, the designer or a rep is present, in which case the experience becomes even more special.
To add to the awesome, boutiques are known to offer champagne, snacks, goodie bags, or even invite some favorite wedding vendors. In other words, get ready for a seriously fun time!
Ready to Say Yes to the Dress?
Your perfect gown is waiting! Find a Lea-Ann Belter or Astrid & Mercedes bridal trunk show near you and book your appointment. Don’t miss the chance to fall in love with exclusive styles and enjoy a unique shopping experience.
