1. Why are the gowns so inexpensive?
We are able to offer our gowns at unbeatable prices because we are selling gowns from the manufacturers available, in-stock inventory. Many of these styles are discontinued or from previous seasons that are no longer available in bridal shops and can only be purchased online.
2. What are the dresses made of and who manufactures them?
Sweetheart Gowns is the maker of all our gowns, including Oriana Couture and Private Collection. Most of our gowns are made of Peau satin, which is polyester satin with a rich lustrous finish. Many gowns have skirts that are done in tulle, which is similar to the fabric used for veils or ballet skirts. Organza is similar to tulle in that it is a sheer fabric but the weave is much tighter, closer to a satin weave. Almost all our lace or lace appliqués are accented with beads and/or sequins.
3. Do you alter the gowns?
No, we cannot do any alterations or changes of any kind to the gowns. It is our purpose to offer you beautiful styles at excellent prices, and changes of any kind would offset that goal. In addition, to do proper alterations, it is necessary that the person intended to wear the dress be present when alterations are done and that is an impossibility with the Internet.
4. How do I know what size to order?
It is very important that proper measurements be taken before a gown is ordered. On average, you will need to go up 1 or 2 sizes than what you normally where in sportswear or street clothes. Bridal gowns are meant to have a close fit to the body so they tend to be cut smaller than sportswear. To measure yourself, you must be dressed in only a good fitting bra and underwear. To measure you bust, take the measuring tape around your back at bust level and over your nipples without pulling too tight or leaving too much slack. Do the same at your waist going over your belly button. To properly measure your hip, go around the fullest part of your buttocks, about 7-9 inches below your belly button. Compare these measurements to our size chart and you should have a good fit.
5. What do I do if the gown I want is not in stock?
We are accepting special orders on most gowns. If a special order is to be placed, it will take 10-12 weeks for the gown to be produced and shipped. Also, we cannot offer a special order at the sale price, as there is an additional cost for this type of order. Please contact our office at 1-866-594-9010 for additional information on special orders.
6. How long will it take to receive my order and how much is shipping?
Standard shipping is $15. Orders are usually processed within 2 business days and are then shipped by UPS or Federal Express standard ground delivery. These carriers guarantee that packages will be delivered in 5-10 business days within the continental US. Therefore you can expect to see your order inside of 2 weeks within the continental US.
7. Do you ship outside of the continental US?
Yes, we have shipped to many customers outside of the US, including Europe, Asia, and South America. Shipping charges vary depending on where the package is going. On average, the international shipping rates have been between $90 and $100. Please contact our office at 1-866-594-9010 for additional information on international shipping rates.
8. Can I receive my order quicker than 5-10 business days?
We offer an express delivery for $37. Once an order is processed, it is then shipped Next Day delivery, so you can expect to see you order in 3-5 business days.
9. What do I do if the dress doesn't fit or I dont like it when I receive my order?
We offer exchanges on Sweetheart Gowns only. Please contact our office immediately to arrange an exchange. We will gladly help you select an alternate gown if you are unhappy with the one you ordered. We charge a $35 restocking fee on every returned gown, so it is very important that you take your measurements and order the correct size. Doing this will avoid having to exchange for size only. We are certain that you will find our gowns beautiful and beautifully made, as they are much nicer in person than on the Internet.
10. Why do you charge a $35 restocking fee?
When a gown is shipped, taken out of a box, tried on and then returned, we can no longer sell that gown as a new gown. Also, it must be checked for any damages that may have occurred before it was returned, and the gown needs to be cleaned and processed for re-sale. We understand the importance of purchasing a wedding gown, and we strive to send you the gown of your dreams in a single shipment.