The day before my appointment was scheduled at Priscilla of Boston, the bridal boutique announced that they would be closing all 19 of their stores on December 31st. I received a phone call that my appointment could no longer be honored, but I could come in and try on any of the dresses still in the store and purchase as-is for 40% off.
Having planned a special day for my mother, mother-in-law, Maid of H0nor, and bridesmaid based around our 2 pm appointment, I was in a bit of a bind. I also could not think of any wedding gowns that I loved more than the Jewel and Vineyard collections created by Priscilla of Boston. I was destined to be a Priscilla bride.
I decided I needed to get to Priscilla of Boston as soon as they opened so I would have as many dress options as possible. Buying a sample dress as-is would be a big risk because sample dresses are often ripped and dirty from being handled by so many people.
I’m so thankful that the bridal consultants were so accommodating. I tried on at least 8 dresses, several veils, and jewelry. My group was given freedom to roam around the store and grab what we wanted.
My Maid of Honor assisted me in the fitting room. I admired myself on every pedestal and whirled and twirled in both long and short dresses. I played dress up for 4 hours, allowing time for my mother-in-law to arrive from New York and help make the final decision. I even found time to make a few phone calls. 
After all of the bad news about the store closing, luck was on my side. My PERFECT dress was available at Priscilla of Boston’s warehouse, brand new, and I could order it at 40% off rather than walking away with a less than perfect sample dress. I was barely able to contain my excitement. My mom purchased my dream dress for me, in mint condition, and we were able to stay WAY under budget thanks to the heavy discount.
(All photos are other dresses that I loved but did not purchase. I’m going to make sure that the dress is a surprise for everyone on 8.10.12)
COMMENTS
8 Comments
1. Megan
September 2nd, 2011 11:00 AM
I’m glad to hear that things worked out! Congrats on getting your dress!
2. Elina (Healthy and Sane)
September 2nd, 2011 11:24 AM
You look gorgeous in all of them!
3. Anne
September 2nd, 2011 02:34 PM
CONGRATULATIONS!! You are so lucky to have found the dress AND get it 40% off!! I was a Priscilla Bride, too! I was so sad to hear that they were closing. My latest blog entry is all about shopping at the store on Boylston and such.
4. Sharon
September 2nd, 2011 03:27 PM
Looking forward to what you actually chose! I’m sure it was quite stunning as you have good taste.
5. Kim
September 2nd, 2011 07:43 PM
The day went very well considering how the morning started. It was much more fun than we anticipated. Just wait til everyone sees the final choice. The dress that you said YES to.
6. Kelly
September 3rd, 2011 05:29 PM
Yay, I’m so glad it all worked out and you found a dress you loved AND it was discounted, perfect!!!
7. a stylized hysteria
September 5th, 2011 07:45 AM
DUDE! Getting a bargain on the wedding dress of your dreams must be the best feeling ever. And considering the runners-up, it’s safe to say the dress you picked must be Amazing!
8. Kristen
September 6th, 2011 01:09 PM
What a FUN photo shoot!!! You look beautiful in all of them, but I am sure that THE dress is the best. Can’t wait to see those shots (after the unveiling – no pun intended!)