Today we’d like to introduce you to Teri Haig.
Hi Teri, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
After working as a seamstress at the store for a few years, in 1996, Bill and I purchased The Wedding Parlour. Then, after doing business for five years in the same location it was when we purchased it, we decided that our customers deserved more than the small, cramped spot we were in. So, we drew up floor plans, cut down trees from our property, and had a local log builder build the log building that we designed to showcase out bridal business in!
Our business centers primarily around weddings. We offer brides a beautiful selection of designer wedding gowns, a wide offering of bridesmaid gowns, mothers’ gowns and flower girl gowns. We also have veils and jewelry for brides. For the men, we offer tuxedos and suits for rent or purchase.
Here I will mention that we also love helping the local prom boys with their prom outfits in the spring!
One of the most important aspects of our business is the customer service. We believe that weddings are one of the most special events in a couples lives and that every aspect of that journey should be met with outstanding customer service. We have the mindset that we want to help couples and their groups feel listened to, and that we are excited to be a part of their special day. Also, we believe that if they have questions pertaining to wedding clothing, timelines, and anything else pertaining to our business, that they know they will get honest and timely answers.
It is such an honor and pleasure to meet so many of our local people, as well as others from different parts of the state. We have made many friends along the way and appreciate everyone who comes into the store!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There are always challenges, one being staffing, another was COVID. The internet shopping is a draw for a few, but most find out that with the lack of customer service and the poor quality of the garments makes it a less then pleasant experience!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As the owner, I am responsible for everything! From the little things to the big things, everything is important to be done on time and in a professional manner. I order all gowns, they get pressed before a customer sees them and I make sure that when they put it in on for the first time, we have a special appointment just for that! I call it “The First Look” appointment!
Another fun thing is to choose new gowns for the next season, sometimes going to market, which is a fun and exciting time!
One thing that brides who have purchased say, is that when they meet me, they immediately become calm because right away I let them know that I am here for them, to help them find their wedding dress, and that I won’t make them feel awkward with saying things that make them feel pressured to buy certain dresses.
I help brides find their wedding outfits, brides maids find their gowns, and moms and flower girls find their gowns as well. Showing the guys that they can look as great at their female counterparts is also fun! Most guys like to “complain” about dressing up, but when they see themselves in their wedding attire, a very large percentage of the men really like the way they look in it!
One of the most things that I am proud of – helping a new bride with her wedding, then finding out that I also helped with her mothers’ wedding, her sisters’ wedding and many of her friends’ weddings!
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Listen to your customers! No one is always “right” but we can always discuss issues in the “right” manner.
Pricing:
- Budget friendly prices for all types of gowns.
- Suits/Tuxedos have a wide range of pricing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.weddingparlourgowns.com
- Instagram: theweddingparlour_grandrapids
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070121499393
