Wedding Trunk Shows 101
What to know
By Natalie Tsang
October 12, 2011
Although trunk shows can sell any merchandise from jewelry to clothing, it is commonly associated with the bridal industry. The name comes from how dresses used to be transported in trunks.
What is it?
A "trunk show' is when vendors present merchandise directly to store personnel or select customers. Often, this is before the merchandise is made available to the public. This is great if you want to be a trend setter and the be the first to wear a particular dress! Many times, the designer is present at the event. In some cases, trunk shows sell the remnants from runways and samples. Brides can view a larger selection of a bridal designer's collection than is normally carried in a bridal salon.
Trunk shows benefit the designer because he or she can get immediate feedback from prospective clients. The designer can also see how the dress moves. Don't be shy about talking to the designer. You'll receive valuable information and help improve future dress designs.
When is it?
Trunk Show season is from January through May. These shows are planned well in advance, so ask stores to give you a list of dates. The shows last from one to three days and appointments book up quickly. Call early and save yourself a space.
Stuff to know
A trunk show is not "technically" a sale. There are often discounts for immediately buying a dress, but you can often ask for "extras" from the designer such as additional length on the train.
There are now many online trunk shows.
1-800-701-4026
