So I have noticed that when people have a BAD experience here, they write up a novel...but the good experiences were just one liners. I thought I'd take the time to offer my story, which was fantastic.
I was hesitant to go here for my dress because of all the bad reviews. I live in Chicago but grew up in the Cleveland area. I was in town for Christmas and wanted to go shopping with my mom. I called the week before to make an appointment, but they were completely booked. When I explained I was from out of town and really want to go dress shopping with my mom, she said she would "make it happen" for me and was able to squeeze me in. I was thrilled!
The day before my appointment we were in the area so we thought we'd just stop in to browse for some ideas. Everyone was super friendly and didn't mind us being there without an appointment. While browsing through the Couture section- one of the ladies even helped us pick out a dress and offered to let me try it in (I didn't, wanted to wait!) She was SO helpful and so nice!
Day Of:
I had NO idea what to try on because I've always heard that what you THINK you're going to buy and what ends up actually looking good on you is different. So I told my mom (with few restrictions) that I'd try on whatever she wanted to see me in. Needless to say (yet saying it anyways!) Kim (the woman helping me) had a lot of dresses to take back to my room and stayed cheerful, helpful, and offered suggestions the whole time.
Once I found what I was thinking was "the dress" she offered to take me into the "Evening Lighting" room... and WOW. That's where I said yes to the dress! It was perfect. Then she started picking out veils that she thought would work.. and I fell in love with her suggestion! Though I will say- I had to be honest with her that I was not willing to pay $400 for a veil...that's absurd. She didn't give me a hard time or try to haggle me at all. I ended up finding the same veil at another salon for 1/2 the price. They also understood that because I live in Chicago I would not be purchasing an alterations package through them...again, didn't even give me a hard time.
Jewelry was next and I was having a hard time picking out earrings. She kept offering suggestions and when I got down to a few options, she even let me try them on- and took it upon herself to get them cleaned.
Overall, Kim & everyone at Catan Bridal was amazing. It's been 3 months and I cannot wait to get my dress!