FAQs
Do I need an appointment? Yes. In order to provide the best experience we require an appointment for our bride and alterations. You must use the “Book Appointment” option to book a private appointment with one of our stylists who are ready to help you find and purchase the dress of your dreams.
What are your hours? We are open:
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: CLOSED
Wednesday: 11am - 6:30pm
Thursday: 11am - 6:30pm
Friday: 11am - 6:30pm
Saturday: 10am - 6:30pm
Sunday: 10am - 6:30pm
Please call us for same day appointments.
What types of appointments do you offer?
For bridal we offer:
Platinium Appointment (Wednesday-Friday) – 75 minutes, no charge
Platinium Appointment (Saturday-Sunday) 75 minutes, $25 charge ($25 is 100% creditable to your purchase, same day)
VIB | Diamond Appointment – 2 hours, $150 charge ($150 is non-refundable)
For formal wear we offer:
**Starting January 2024, we are no longer offering formal/prom appointments. Our Prom/Formal Shop is going to be ONLINE ONLY and FINAL SALE. These gowns are not available to try on or purchase in-store. They are also sold as-is and have been gently worn. Available for shipment only, no pickup.
What is the VIB Appointment?
VIB stands for Very Important Bride! Our brides will receive exclusive access and expertise of Samila Bridal’s senior stylist for 2 hours. You and your guests will be served a champagne toast, a hand-selected Samila Bridal gift, a photobooth experience to document the experience and have some fun! There is a $150 booking fee, which is non-refundable but may be re-scheduled. There is a limit of 6 guests in addition to the bride.
Do you allow walk-ins?
We require an appointment for all shopping at the store. If an appointment slot is available, same day, the consultation/booking fee still applies.
How many guests can I bring to the appointment?
We are recommending no more than 3 guests accompany you during your appointment. This is *YOUR* moment! It is easy to become overwhelmed by too many opinions and distractions. We encourage clients to keep the appointments intimate so that you can really tap into your desires and find the perfect dress for you.
**Please refer to the appointment description regarding the guest count, as it varies depending on the type of appointment booked.
We can provide a Zoom link if you would like to show your gown to someone who could not come with you to your appointment.
What is the cancellation policy?
All appointments require a credit card to reserve. Clients who no-show to their appointment or cancel within 48 hours will be charged a $50 cancellation fee. This is because we have reserved a dressing room and stylist for you. Applies to bridal and alteration appointments.
Do you allow children?
While we would love to allow children, for their own safety, we cannot allow them in the store. We have very large mirrors, other delicate items, and hazards. We also host multiple appointments at a time, and although you’ll have your individual appointment space, children can be a distraction. We want to ensure the best experience possible for each and every bride in our space. We request that you find other arrangements for any guests under the age of 10. If a conflict arises please let us know and we will gladly reschedule your appointment for you.
How early should I arrive for my appointment?
We ask that you arrive to your appointment on time. Our appointments are scheduled back-to-back and we want to give all of our clients that same one-on-one attention. There are also several shops and restaurants in the area that you can visit if you are early.
Why do you require a credit card to book an appointment?
This is simply on file in case you don’t show or do not call us within the required 48-hour cancellation policy. In the event you do not give us proper notice you will be subject the $50 cancellation fee.
Do you offer bridesmaids appointments?
Not at this time.
Can we bring food or beverages with us?
Because we are selling delicate garments and gorgeous white gowns. No food or beverage are allowed to be brought in the store. Kindly leave these items in your car or at the assigned station in our boutique.
When should I purchase my gown?
It’s best to purchase your dress 8-10 months before the date of your wedding. This will allow time for your dress to be delivered (it can take up to 8 months from the date of order for dresses to be delivered) and give time for alterations which can take another 2-3 months. However, there are off the rack options for those brides who want to purchase dresses on the spot.
What is the price range of your bridal gowns?
We have two categories of bridal gowns. Our ready to wear category is available off the rack and ranges from $500-$1700 with an average of $999. Our made to order category which has a 6-9 month production time ranges in price from $1895-$5500, with an average of $2000-$2500. Please indicate your budget when making an appointment so that we can choose dresses that fit your budget.
What size are the sample gowns in your store?
The made to order bridal sample dresses range in size from bridal size 6-24. However, keep in mind that bridal designs are typically about 2 sizes bigger than your regular dress size. For example, if you wear a size 2, you may wear 6 or 8 in bridal designs.
What designers do you carry?
We carry Casablanca Bridal, Beloved by Casablanca, Martin Thornburg, Luxe by Martin Thornburg, Morilee, Blu by Morilee, Sophia Tolli, Sophia Tolli Premiere, Justin Alexander Signature, La Premiere, and Sincerity Bridal
Do you offer the designer's full collection the showroom?
While we would love to offer the full collection from each of our lovely designers, we have specifically curated our collection to cater to PNW brides. If we do not carry the gown you are searching for, please call/email before to see if we can arrange a loan for you.
Alternatively, please book during a trunk show for that designer as they send us extra dresses from their collection often and offer a discount. Our inventory always changes so there is a chance we do not have a dress that is on our Instagram anymore.
Do you offer custom-designed/custom-made bridal gowns?
Yes, we work with designers and factories who focus solely on custom made bridal gowns & veils. If you can’t find a dress you are perfectly happy with, please show us your dream designs and we’ll make it happen. Please visit our Custom Gown page.
Costs vary based on the design, materials and detail of your gown. If you are interested in this option, let us know when you call for your appointment.
Do you carry bridal accessories?
Yes we do! Every bride needs her accessories. We have veils, headpieces, masks, and more. Give us a call or please email info@samilasboutique.com to schedule an appointment or ask any questions, we’re happy to help. Please note that most of our accessories can take up to 3 months for arrival.
Do I need an appointment to shop for evening dresses?
Starting January 2024, we are no longer offering formal/prom appointments. Our Prom/Formal Shop is going to be ONLINE ONLY and FINAL SALE. These gowns are not available to try on or purchase in-store. They are also sold as-is and have been gently worn. Available for shipment only, no pickup.
What size evening dresses do you carry?
We carry size 00-24.
Are your evening dresses off the rack?
No, we are no longer offering off-the-rack dresses. Evening gowns can only be purchased online.
What are your evening gown price ranges?
Our evening gowns start from $199.
Do you have sales on dresses?
We have a Clearance Collection with evening gowns that are further discounted.
Do you have every dress featured on Instagram (@samilaformalandprom)?
The evening dresses in our showroom have been handpicked and we do not carry every dress in every color and size. The inventory always changes so there is a chance we do not have a dress that is on our Instagram anymore.
Do you do holds?
We don’t offer holds at this time.
Do you offer layaway?
No, evening gowns must be paid in full.
Do you offer in-house alterations on bridal gowns and evening dresses?
Yes we do offer in-house alterations. Due to the high volume of alterations we can only perform alterations on wedding dresses purchased at Samila Bridal.
We can also refer you to our list of the best local Alterations Specialists available. We leave the final choice of who will alter your gown up to you!
Should I do my alterations with your tailors?
If you do not live near our shop in Seattle, we highly recommend getting your alterations done where you live or somewhere near where you live instead. Why? Brides need multiple fittings (brides should plan on 2-3 fittings with a tailor and the number of fittings cannot be guaranteed before) and the constant back and forth travel before the wedding can end up being a huge stress and expense. During wedding season, it is also difficult to reschedule appointments as our tailors are booked out in advance.
Will I need alterations for my wedding dress?
Yes! When purchasing a dress, we take your measurements to order your standard size. Our goal is to make sure your dress fits perfectly. Whether that means taking in a dress to make it contour to the shape of your body, hem the length, shorten straps, and add the bustle for your train. Alterations are just a standard part of the whole process, and nothing to stress over!
Are alterations included in the price of the gown?
No, the prices our gowns are listed at do not include alterations or any other charges like tax, special/custom length, shipping, or rush charges.
What is the average cost of alterations?
For the bridal category the average cost of alterations is $500-$1500. In the evening wear category, the average cost is $150. This cost will depend on the dress and the amount of work involved. For the most accurate pricing please call to schedule a consultation. Please review our bridal alteration pricing
How long does the tailor need?
The average turnaround for bridal alterations is 2-3 months. The average turnaround for evening gowns is based on the time of year. Alterations are recommended to start closer to the wear date. You may be subject to a rush fee depending on the turnaround time. Our tailor meets with you onsite to consult with you.
What is your return policy?
All sales are final on bridal gowns, special ordered items, accessories and alterations.
Will my booking fee get refunded back to me?
The booking fee will be credited back towards your same-day dress purchase. If you do not purchase a dress same-day day, the booking fee will not be credited back as it covers our stylist's time with you.