Wedding lingo and terminology can be tricky! So before you head to a dress boutique to try on a variety of wedding gowns, we wanted to bust any misconceptions. With the help of Lavender Park Bridal we’re giving you the facts about the difference between trunk shows, sample sales, and more so that you’ve got all the knowledge you need that can help make your wedding dress shopping experience a bit easier! See what you can expect from these types of events and more in the interview with Kayla of Lavender Park Bridal below!
What is a trunk show?
Kayla: A trunk show is a special event whereby a bridal boutique hosts a particular designer’s collection for a limited time. This is a unique opportunity to try on designers collection straight from the runway, before they are available in stores. Plus view designs from previous collections that aren’t stocked permanently at the store. It is not as the name may indicate a fashion parade or runway show. The name actually comes from the notion of dresses traveling in a suitcase (or trunk) visiting different boutiques around the country.
What is a sample sale?
Kayla: A sample sale is when a boutique sells gowns off the rack for a discounted rate. Often these dresses have been tried on by many different people or are discontinued styles and there is minimal wear so the savings are then passed on to you with discounts as much as 30-75% off retail.
What is a bridal fashion show?
Kayla: A bridal fashion show usually takes place a at bridal expo; however, they can happen in a range of settings. A bridal fashion show is as it sounds. It is a time for brides to see the dresses in action on real women and up close before going to your bridal appointment!
What is the difference between a sample sale, a trunk show, and a bridal fashion show?
Kayla: Trunk show – Limited to one designer that comes to the boutique. Sample Sale – All designer gowns for sale off-the-rack at a discounted rate – many are discontinued styles. Bridal Fashion Show – At a Bridal expo with a runway, see the dresses in person on real people.
What should a bride do when she has doubt about a bridal boutique hosted event?
Kayla: Call, e-mail or DM us! We are happy to make clarifications for our sweet brides!
How can brides come prepared for all of these events?
Kayla: Trunk Show – Come prepared to make a decision, most of these gowns will only be in store for a limited time and you may not see them again. Sample sale – Come prepared to make a decision. This sale is for a limited time and these gowns go fast! If you decide to sleep on a sample sale gown the likelihood of it not being there the next day is incredibly high. Bridal Fashion Show – Just have fun! Look at the different styles and if you see your dream gown take note and you can try it on when you come to the store!
Do discounts on bridal gowns and accessories usually occur during these events/sales?
Kayla: In a trunk show and sample sale, yes!! Trunk shows usually have about a 10% discount and a sample sale can be 30%-75% off retail. Bridal expos vary but many bridal boutiques do offer incentives at those events.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Kayla: Follow us on IG to know when events are happening!
Thanks so much to Kayla for breaking down the difference between trunk shows, sample sales, and more! We hope you found this helpful and be sure to check out Lavender Park Bridal for an amazing wedding dress shopping experience!
