frequently asked questions

What you need to know for your appointment with us at Elle James Bridal.

When should I shop for my wedding dress?
Wedding dresses take anywhere from 4 - 6 months to make depending on the designer. We recommend you begin looking for your wedding dress a minimum of 8 months before your wedding to allow plenty of time for alterations. If you are on a tighter deadline, Elle James designer’s do have options that will get a dress here as quick as 2 weeks after saying yes.

What sizes are your sample gowns?
We are proud to offer a variety of sizes for brides of all shapes. Our samples in store range from Size 10 - Size 24 and our designers offers sizes 00 - 32.

Do I have to have an appointment?
Yes! Our boutique hours are by appointment only to make your experience the very best! Each bridal appointment is 2 hours, allowing plenty of time to find THE DRESS while enjoying the company of your loved ones. We also offer 1 hour accessory appointments. Please note our gowns range from $1,600 - $10,000 with most between $1,800 - $4,000. 

Do you offer alterations?
While we do not offer alterations, we are happy to share our favorite local seamstresses with you! Our recommendations have years of education and experience in altering couture gowns + have made all of our Elle James brides very happy ladies!

Do you carry mother of the bride, bridesmaids, and prom?
Great news! We just opened a sister store. The Party specialized in dresses your leading ladies - bridesmaids, mothers, and flower girls. You can see more here. We do not carry prom.

What undergarments should I bring to my bridal appointment?

We recommend bringing what you think you will wear under your wedding dress. Many brides will wear Spanx or some sort of shapewear. Great news - the majority of our gowns have built in pads in them so there is really no need to be worried about a bra that works with the dresses. (99% of our brides don't wear a bra on their wedding day!) If you want to be covered a bit during the try on process we recommend wearing petals/nipple covers. 

How many people can I bring to my appointment? 

We allow 4 guests max. We have found more than that feels crowded in our intimate showroom and can be alot of personalities and opinions for the bride. 

Are kids allowed at my appointment?

Yes, we do allow kids in our boutique. However, you know the children you're inviting. If they are at an age where they cannot sit still and constantly want attention (because that's what kids do! haha) then just know they may interrupt your appointment. We adore all children but never want a bride to feel like the full attention is not on them. 

Do you serve champagne?

Unfortunately the laws in Mississippi do not allow us to purchase and serve our guests champagne. You are more than welcome to bring champagne yourself. We will set it up in our kitchenette and have some cups for you and your group to use. Cheers!

Do I need to bring shoes?

No! Not for your bridal appointment. You will take your shoes off and stand on a pedestal. Once you find your dress and it arrives it will be good to have your shoes for your pickup appointment.

Should I get a spray tan before my appointment?

We know everyone loves to have a tan while trying on dresses but please shower between tanning and coming in for your bridal appointment. We also ask that you do not wear any sort of body makeup or tinted lotion as it can ruin our gowns. 

AFTER YOU SAY YES TO THE DRESS

Paying For Your Wedding Dress

60% of the payment is due at the time you say Yes to your dress in order for Elle James to order it. The remaining balance is due once your dress arrives. 

We accept cash, checks, and all credit/debit cards. 

We are able to split payments if multiple people are wanting to help pay for the gown.

Tips

Over the years we have had many brides and their families ask to tip their bridal stylist. For this reason, there will be an option to leave your stylist a tip via credit/debit card at checkout. The tip options are 2%, 5%, 10% and None. Please know that while tips are very appreciated they are never expected.