Recently, we’ve received many questions ranging from ‘how long it takes for a couture designed veil to be made to ‘how do I make an appointment for the bridal shop to ‘what is couture design? So, I’m varying the topic for this post from our usual wedding topics to share a bit about Marti & Co. and information on appointments, customer service questions and my experience in the wedding industry.
Let’s start with a bit about me – I started Marti & Co. because I wanted Brides-to-be and their families and friends to have a unique and fun way to shop for their Bridal accessories, be it a veil, headpiece, a jeweled hair comb, jewelry, or a sash. I have been in the wedding industry for 8 years, and have worked with more than 350 Brides. Most of all, I have loved every minute! You can learn more about my story here: martiandcompany.com
Q. WHAT SETS MY DESIGNS APART?
A. Twice a year, I travel to the finest fabric shops in the US, and every other year, I travel aboard to Paris or London to personally select the luxurious, opulent and high-quality materials that I use in my designs. Other designers have a tendency to use less expensive fabrics and embellishments from craft chain stores. Here, we believe it is your wedding day, so only the best will do! Plus, a trip to Paris is always a good idea. 🙂
Q. What is the difference between custom and couture designs?
A. Custom designs at Marti & Co. mean the process of modifying an existing design to a customer’s measurements, style or preference. This may also include adding materials and embellishments of the Bride-to-be’s choosing to the custom design. Whereas a couture design is an exclusive design for the Bride-to-be that is handmade with extra attention to fit and style using the finest laces and embellishments created to the Bride-to-be’s vision. These little one-of-a-kind details that make a Bride feel like she is looking at her most glamorous on her wedding day.
APPOINTMENTS
Q: Where is Marti & Co located?
A. Our storefront is located at 930 Division St., Cresco, IA. 52136 Here’s the distance from some cities close to Marti & Co.: 60 miles from Rochester, MN. 66 miles from LaCrosse, WI., 70 miles from Mason City, IA. and 73 miles from Waterloo, IA.
Q: What are the hours for your Shop?
Marti & Co is open by appointment only: M,T, Th-Sat, 10a – 5:00p,. Although it’s also, a relaxed atmosphere and on occasion, someone knocks on the door and if I’m available I’ll open the door. Then, it’s your lucky day!
Q: How do I schedule an appointment? How far in advance should I book my appointment?
A: To schedule call 563.379.7583 or email Marti at martiandcompany@gmail.com. 6-9 months before your wedding date is a good time frame to work with. Although we are staffed to accommodate last minute orders for most requests.
Q: What if I need to cancel my appointment?
A: Call us at 563.379.7583 to cancel.
Q: Do I need an appointment to try on wedding veils?
A: Yes, our style is to give our full attention to one bride and her guests by scheduling individual vs. one- on – one appointment..
Q: What is helpful for me to bring to my appointment?
A: Your dress and undergarments for your dress, jewelry, any heirloom fabric, buttons, and other items you’d like used in the design process.
Q: What can I expect once I’ve scheduled an appointment at MARTI & CO.?
A: You will receive 1 on 1 attention for 1 – 1 1/2 hours in our private bridal salon. Marti will provide veil styling, accessory suggestions, share trims, ribbons and other embellishments for a couture-designed accessory. The Shop also has a unique line of special event jewelry for your bridal look and for your bridal party.
CUSTOMER SERVICE QUESTIONS
Q: How quickly will my veil arrive once I place my order?
A: March- October orders, allow 3-4 weeks for design and veil completion. During November – February, 10 – 14 days is usually the timeframe. For other accessories, the completion schedule depends upon the design, availability of materials and the availability of the Bride to approve each step of the design process. Our goal is 4 weeks from the date your order is placed.
Q: How will the veil be shipped? Is there a signature required upon receipt?
A: Your veil will be shipped in a sturdy box lined with archival tissue paper already for heirloom keeping after your wedding day. Shipping is by USPS Priority Mail. No signature is required. If you prefer a different shipping method note your preference when ordering. Then I’ll be back in touch with you via email with the details. You will receive an email with tracking information when your veil is shipped.
Q: Do you accept returns?
A: Returns are accepted only for non-custom items within 14 days of the delivery date. Items must be unworn and in a resalable condition. Items must have all tags, boxes, and bags attached/included. For mail-order returns, you must obtain proof of postage just in case your order is lost on its way back to Marti & Co. Failure to do so may result in us not being able to process your return. Refunds for returns within the 14-day timeline are honored if the terms of the returns policy are followed 100%. Contact me by email and we’ll arrange a time within the 14-day timeframe that works into your schedule. Custom and couture designs are not returnable. However, if you change your mind and I have not started on your custom or couture order a partial refund may be given. The cost of the return must be paid by the customer.
Q: Do you accept layaways?
A: Yes, for everything except custom designs. Our policy is 50% down and full payment within 3 months of purchase. This is a firm policy.
So excited to share how Marti & Co. works. I hope we meet soon! I’d love to design and make your veil or bridal accessory. Equally exciting is your wedding is coming soon! Enjoy planning and all of the activities leading up to your big day. Let me know in the comments below if you have any other questions. I’d love to hear from you!
