Pronovias dress - have I done the right thing?

Flirtini_2

Hi all!

I posted last week asking for opinions on dresses - thanks for everyone who replied!

I loved the Pronovias Benicarlo dress and it is an amazing dress - my decision had to be made quickly as I was warned that it would be discontinued very soon.

I had emailed the head office to see if they could confirm when it would be discontinued, they replied today saying it was already discontinued and no longer in production. In a bit of a panic, I popped into the Pronovias store in central london after work (where I had tried the dress on originally). They told me I could still order it, no problem. Initially I was relieved - I felt so sick when I thought I might not be able to get it, it is definitely 'the dress'.

So, dress is ordered. However, I am now wondering about a few things:
I had to pay 50% deposit and apparently 50% on first fitting, whereas online it states 1/3 on deposit, 1/3 on fitting and 1/3 on collection. I'm wondering why this is different for me?

Due to being told it is already discontinued, I'm wondering if I am actually getting a new dress or if I'm getting a sample - I know they have a new/fairly new sample in the store. My contract states it'll be new... I suppose as long as I have a pristine dress at the end it shouldn't matter?

There is a £180 alteration charge - and it is mandatory and payable upon order. I would have thought you'd have a fitting and then pay this if alterations are needed... But maybe that is wishful thinking and this is normal?

At the end of the day, as long as I have the perfect dress for my wedding, I suppose none of the above should matter, but its just raised a few suspicions and set me on edge a bit. The fact I won't see my dress for a year doesn't help, it's way too long to wait!

Has anyone experienced Pronovias? I've googled for reviews but all that comes up is mainly negative reviews of the shopping experience - I'm after reassurance that the dress will be well made, good quality, and shouldn't be any issues...

Can anyone help with this, and also whether the above with regards to payment and alterations etc is normal for them?

Sorry, I know I'm probably worrying unnecessarily but I'm fixating on this and need to try to chill out!
Thanks!!
Xxxx

angel11

I just ordered my dress last week and had to pay 50% deposit, the other 50% to be paid when dress arrives in shop, before any alterations. This seemed to be the case in all the bridal shops I visited. I didn't, however, have to pay for alteration when ordering, but I guess every shop has different policies.

I'm sure it will all be fine, but think it's natural to be nervous with such a big purchase. I personally have never spent so much on 1 item of clothing, and probably never will again, and we all just want our wedding dress to be perfect. However, if you do have some concerns, why not speak to the shop? I'm sure if it's a reputable shop they'll understand your concerns, and be able to give some assurances.

Hth

floss2

Maybe the dress IS discontinued and no longer in production, but there is a stock of various sizes, and this is what your deposit has secured.

When I ordered my tiara & veil (made to order for me) I paid 50%/50% deposit / collection.

Pinzy

I paid 50% on ordering and 50% on dress arrival. Like others have said, it's likely the provonia have left, they just aren't making any more.

Looks Gorgeous by the way!

Flirtini_2

Thanks guys! I think I've chilled out about it now - your responses have helped! A combination of making a huge purchase (and a very emotional one too!) plus being blindsided by a change in their policy that required more money than I had expected up front... plus the worrying about if I'm actually able to get the 'new' dress... all just had me a bit frazzled!

You've helped put my mind at rest and I can now look forward to my lovely dress - if I can wait the next year until my wedding and be patient! Can't believe it'll be another year before I even get to see my dress in the flesh again!

thanks xxx