Twice a year, manufacturers host what is called "Market". There are markets in Las Vegas, Atlanta, New York & Chicago. The Spring Market is hosted in Chicago in the fall, usually October. The Fall Market is hosted in Chicago in the Spring, usually March. Sound confusing? It is. It takes us as long to get our samples as it does for us to special order our merchandise for our customers. That is why the markets are held 6 months ahead of the season. (More on Seasons will follow below.)
The Chicago Market is hosted at the Merchandise Mart. It is 3 or 4 days of fun, stress and sore feet. Hundreds of manufacturers showcase their latest styles in booths, that take up an entire floor of the Merchandise Mart. We spend 3 1/2 days combing the floor for the best suppliers, that offer the best quality product at the most affordable price. From 9-5 we visit our vendors booths and sit through fashion shows. Each manufacturer produces about 20-40 new bridal gowns for each season. We select a minimum number of gowns from each of our suppliers, because we actually purchase all of our samples for full price.
The management of Bella Bridal carefully hand selects each gown we carry. We evaluate each gown for price, fabric, silhouette, and most importantly style. Sometimes, we choose one gown over another, because we may find a better one from another supplier that is very similar. We spend the first couple of days evaluating every line we carry and taking notes on what our initial thoughts are. We then go back on the last day and make final decisions, based on everything we have seen.
This same process is bridesmaid dresses, special occasion gowns, headpieces, veils and jewelry. There are usually fewer suppliers to choose from, so the process isn't quite as complicated.
Once we purchase the minimums from a supplier, we are an authorized dealer of that line. That allows us to order any of the gowns or products from that manufacturer, even if we do not carry a sample of that item in the store.
Additionally, each manufacturer discontinues styles periodically. It varies by manufacturer, how often and when this happens. Once a gown is discontinued, we can no longer order it. This is why we sell samples. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the samples we are selling. It is just time for the manufacturer to change styles again. This is why we have semi-annual sample sales. Not all of the samples being sold are discontinued. Actually, most of them are not. It just allows us to make room for more of the new styles coming in.
We are looking forward to selecting more fabulous styles for our Fall customers.
