Sposa Bella

Last October, I discovered my dream wedding dress at Sposa Bella (SB). Despite the $10,000 price, I was ecstatic about my choice. I had contemplated buying two dresses, but I was so in love with the one I picked that I couldn't imagine changing into anything else. I explained to Nancy that I could only return to MI once before my October wedding, as I lived in AZ. We agreed to fit appointments around my July visit to MI. Nancy informed me that alterations and the first fitting were included, and she threw in a tulle veil. I set up a July 14th appointment at 11am. SB never confirmed additional fittings, so I assumed one was enough. When I arrived, I was told my appointment was at 12pm and Nancy would be late. The gown fit perfectly, but we decided to add lining to the slightly sheer skirt. There was limited discussion about alterations. I faced strong opinions on my hairstyle and earrings, and after measurements, Nancy surprised me with September and October appointments lined up and a $625 invoice, contrary to what we had discussed previously. My stepmom later called SB, stating we wouldn’t pay for charges that we were told were included and they could send the dress with agreed-upon alterations and find someone in AZ for further changes. A week later, my dress arrived in a beaten-up Home Depot box, noticeably lacking care. While the garment bag offered some protection, the choice of packaging was insulting. Items from our registry have arrived in better condition. Thankfully, the gown emerged unscathed, however, the pins that had been used to mark alterations remained in place, indicating a lack of finalization. Nancy later explained that due to the dispute regarding payment, the dress had been shipped without alterations. I was bewildered and offended by the discourteous excuses and justifications that Nancy offered. The roughly cut tulle veil arrived a week later, with the jagged edging most noticeable around the area that framed my face. With tax and other charges, the grand total for my gown was around $12,000. The disappointing experience with SB has completely tarnished my initial excitement about my dress. I even began considering another dress for the reception. SB's professionalism vanished after the deposit and second payment. They could have suggested an AZ seamstress for quality alterations. Rather than being deceptive, they could have transparently discussed the costs of additional alterations. My seamstress in AZ was appalled by my SB encounter. She commented on the veil's rough edges and believed it was poorly cut. My parents attempted to contact the owner for resolution, but the response was unsatisfactory. Nancy avoided accountability and refused direct communication with the owner. They sent a $500 gift card, but the damage was done. In conclusion, a combination of miscommunication, disrespect, unexpected charges, and lackluster presentation has overshadowed what should have been a joyful occasion. I would advise anyone considering patronizing this business to seek alternatives. There are plenty of bridal boutiques other than Sposa Bella that are committed to customer satisfaction and professionalism. I would also suggest that wedding gown designers reconsider partnering with SB. The business's behavior could reflect poorly on their work.