Frequently Asked Questions
Arming yourself with knowledge before you gown shop will reduce stress and keep this process exciting. Here are some FAQs that we’ve collected over the years to assist you as you prepare to shop. Make an appointment to come and see Bella Sera and our wonderful collections today.
Brides FAQs
The adage “You are never too early, but you may be too late” applies to bridal gown shopping. Bridal gowns are rarely hanging in stock waiting for you to purchase them. Instead, we decide on a style, size and color together, then we place our order with the designer. The designer then puts our dress order in line behind every other order that has come before. We suggest you begin shopping about a year prior and have a decision made no later than nine months prior to your wedding date.
Our designers offer rush programs (fees occur) and in-stock delivery on some items. If you are very close to a wedding date, we always offer a dress off our racks, which will be discounted to you if they are more than a season old.
Bella Sera was founded in 2005 with the mission statement “Every Bride is Beautiful”, with the sole purpose of offering elevated service to all shapes and sizes. We continue to build our plus-size collections every season and pride ourselves on the diversity of styles we have on our racks.
Our gowns range anywhere from $1200-$4500. The average price of a gown at Bella Sera is $2100. If you are looking for a bargain, email or give us a call! We often sell inventory off the rack and we may have exactly what you are looking for.
We pride ourselves on the idea that we are and will remain a full-service salon. We want to take care of you from start to finish, so we have assembled a team of expert seamstresses that will tailor your gown to fit impeccably. We have won several BONS awards for our alterations department, and we are very proud to serve our guests throughout their entire journey.
We have sample sales twice a year, in the summer and winter. We price sample sale gowns at a reduced price and work together with you to find the perfect look at an absolute steal.
We no longer carry bridesmaid collections in our store due to the influx of online purchases, but we are always happy to chat colors and advise on how to pull your looks together.
We do carry menswear in our New Hampshire location. Bella Sera Brides will receive an extra special discount at our NH location.
We have created our V.I.B.E. Lounge to cater to both anxious brides and brides looking for an elevated experience. V.I.B.E. stands for Vibrant Immersive Bridal Experience. Hop over to our appointments page to learn more.
We do ask that you please make an appointment to visit our salon. You are then guaranteed a stylist who will impart knowledge and lead you through the process of deciding on a gown. Our staff is trained regularly, and since we know this is all new to you, it’s important to us to serve you in a manner that will make you feel comfortable and cared for.
Moms FAQs
It’s never frowned upon to start early, but you could be too late to order something new. Moms should start shopping about seven months prior to the wedding, with a decision begin formulated no later than five months prior. We do sell right out of our inventory for moms, so fear not if you are later than that. However, keep in mind that in-stock colors may not always be in line with the bride’s vision, so give yourself enough time in case we need to order a dress in another color.
Our philosophy carries over into all our collections, so you will always see our plus-size racks stocked with beautiful and diverse pieces.
We have a lovely array of pantsuits available for moms and grandmothers.
As with our lovely brides, we want to complete the circle and make sure you are looking and feeling fabulous before you leave our salon. We do offer on-site alterations for all special occasion attire as well.
We will never try to compete with department stores, as we consider our experience a great step up from what you’ll receive at the local mall. Our items range in price from $450 to $4000. The majority of our collection retails for between $650-$950, but we do have some very special pieces that are absolute gems you won’t find at other salons.
As we have grown, we have expanded our collections to include one-of-a-kind pieces you can treasure as an event guest. The items arrive all year round, so if you have an upcoming event, be sure to visit us for these unique looks.
An appointment is required for moms at our New Hampshire location. You are then guaranteed a stylist who will impart knowledge and lead you through the process of deciding on a gown. Our staff is trained regularly, and since we know this is all new to you, it’s important to us to serve you in a manner that will make you feel comfortable and cared for.
“Bella Sera is phenomenal! From the time I scheduled my bridal appointment beyond my dress purchase, their responsiveness has exceeded my expectations. I’ve had several questions throughout this experience, and each has been met with care and consideration. My stylist Sydney was excellent and instrumental in my finding my perfect gown.”
– Shea D
