Frequently Asked Questions
Finding your wedding dress should be a joyful, memorable experience — and at Martels Bridal, we’re here to make sure it is. From the moment you arrive for your private appointment, you’ll be made to feel welcome, relaxed, and completely at ease.
We know that some brides can feel a little nervous about visiting bridal boutiques, but there’s no need to worry. We’re here to take away the stress and replace it with excitement! Below, we’ve answered some common questions, but if there’s anything else you’d like to know, just give us a call — we’re always happy to help.
How do I book?
You can book an appointment by either calling us on 07395 086653 or contacting us using the booking form on the Consultation page. You can also use the WhatsApp chat button or email.
What stockists do you hold?
We are area stockists for Paul Zeni Couture, Stella York, Emma Bridals, Richard Designs and British Bridal. We are always on the look out for more designers to join us!
When should I start looking for my dress?
Wedding dresses typically take around 5 to 6 months to be made and delivered to our boutique. Once it arrives, it’s important to allow roughly two months for any necessary alterations. That’s why we suggest starting your dress search at least 12 months before your big day — it helps avoid any rush fees and gives you time to enjoy the whole experience stress-free.
If you're working with a shorter timeframe, don't worry — give us a call! We often have off-the-peg sample dresses available that can be tailored to fit you beautifully, and we’re happy to explore rush delivery options with our designers where possible.
What happens at my appointment?
You will be guided by our experienced Bridal stylist through out your one to one appointment. It will only be you and your guests in the boutique to provide a private and exclusive experience with us. We pride our selves on impeccable service and our knowledge is outstanding.
We want our brides to have the best experience that they will always remember and be treated like the princess they deserve. Please see our amazing reviews to see how much our brides are looked after!
You will get the chance to choose some dresses from the rails and then try them on in your own private bridal suite.you will then be revealed to your family and friends for their thoughts and yours! It really is a truly wonderful moment!
We offer a range of drinks for you and your party which they can enjoy while you are trying on gowns. Once you have found your dress there is a chance to celebrate, take some pictures and you will receive a goody bag from us. We also explain/arrange the next steps in the bridal journey with us!
How long is an appointment?
We generally allow around 2 hours for bridal and 1.5 hours for Bridesmaid's (depending how many there are!)
Do you charge for appointments?
No, all of our appointments are non-chargeable.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Anything you are comfortable in, there's no judgement from us! If you have your underwear already, please bring it but if not, nude underwear works well and a good fitting strapless bra, but please don't worry too much, we are on hand to provide all the advice that you need for your big day!
Please don't wear fake tan to your appointment so that it doesn't go on the gowns and helps us keep them in perfect condition.
Is there anything I should bring to my appointment?
No, we have everything you need for your first appointment in the boutique ready for you!
Who should I bring with me?
Ideally 2-3 guests is perfect! We can fit more in if needed, but this amount allows for a more comfortable experience with us.
Can I borrow a dress that you don't stock?
Yes, most of our designers allow us to loan dresses in if we don't stock the one you like! Just let us know and we will do our best to source it for you for a small charge.
What is the price range of your dresses?
Dresses start at £395 and can go up to £2,500. The majority are between £1,000 and £1,800.
How long does it take to get my dress?
Our bridal gowns take on average 12 weeks to order (Kenneth Winston & Paul Zeni – 25 weeks) and 8 to 12 weeks for bridesmaids and flower girls. However ‘rush’ options are available for a small fee.
What if I need a dress quicker than that?
Martels Bridal Boutique always carries a selection of sample dresses that can be taken away on the day. Ideal for brides on a shorter timescale or smaller budget.
What happens if my dress needs altering or I want to change it slightly? What does it cost?
We have excellent seamstresses we can recommend who can alter dresses and make them fit you to perfection, should they need a little tweak! As for cost, this is dependent on what you need done and is between you and your chosen seamstress.
How do I pay for my dress/es?
When you have found your perfect wedding gown or ideal bridesmaid dresses, we need a 50% deposit to place the order with the designers. This is non-refundable as when your order is placed, your dress or dresses go into production just for you. The balance is required upon collection of your dresses.
However, we can also offer a payment in stages plan. Talk to your bridal consultant at your appointment on how we can structure this for you.
What payment methods can I use?
You can pay by cash, we take card payments (not American Express) or we can invoice you and you can pay via online banking. We no longer accept cheques.
Do you stock bridemaids dresses?
Yes!! We have a huge selection of over 100 BM dresses in over 60 colours. We have added a new modern range called WOVN and also the very popular multiway dresses! And not forgetting the very important flower girl dresses!
Can I just come and look at accessories?
Yes you can have an accessory appointment with us to complete your bridal look.
Where are you?
We are located in Martels Wedding village in Barnston just outside Dunmow. We are part of a wedding department store where you can find everything wedding all under one roof! We hold monthly wedding fairs where we are all open for you to browse at your leisure!
Is there free parking at Martels Bridal Boutique?
Martels Bridal Boutique is housed in Martels Wedding Village, there is plenty of free parking on site.
What other services can I find during my visit to Martels Bridal Boutique?
Apart from a beautiful range of veils, tiaras, belts etc the boutique is part of Martel Wedding Village. There you will find around 20 other wedding related businesses such as dapper chaps formal wear for your grooms and grooms men, Christine’s for the mothers of the bride & groom, hair & makeup, photographers, videographers etc etc – click on the link to see what else you can get at Martels Wedding Village.
Why choose Martels Bridal Boutique?
We have over 15 year combined experience in the bridal industry and our reviews from our real life brides speak for them selves! We are constantly adding new dresses to our stock and we can complete your bridal journey from start to finish, even covering your bridemaids and flower girls needs! You really can put your trust in us, we will ensure that amazing journey really is as special as you deserve it to be! We can’t wait to have you in the boutique soon!
