The Encounter — Attraction in Kingsport

I have had many people tell me just how pleasant their experience at The Encounter was so I went in with high expectations. I originally went in just to look around but ended up buying a beautiful dress! It was a little pricey being $800, and did not seem to be $800 quality, but this is for senior prom so I said screw it because I loved the dress. At first glance, the building is very cluttered and cramped, but they had some beautiful dresses. The lady I was paired with (Shelby) was extremely helpful and welcoming. I scheduled a tailoring appointment and returned a few weeks later with my dress. I was greeted by the owner, who told me I was early (which I was) and that I needed to wait in my car because there was another fitting going on. I agreed because I understand that they may want some privacy, however I was slightly confused because there was other people shopping around the store. I walked back in at my scheduled appointment time and was yet again told to wait because I had an "important" customer having her fitting done. Come to find out, the "important customer" was the owners' friend and her daughter. Now I'm a very understanding person, however, they could have done the fitting after hours or on a day the store was not open because when they push out other customers, that makes them feel like they are not welcome and not important. Finally, 30 minutes after my allotted appointment time, I was greeted by the sweetest seamstress who sincerely apologized for taking longer than she expected too, all while the owner was standing behind her rolling her eyes. I returned 2 weeks later to pick up my dress and was once again met by the owner, but this time I smiled at her and kept going and went straight up to the seamstress to get my dress. I tried it on and it was a perfect fit. I paid the seamstress and was walking out as I heard the owner mumble how I was "rude and insensitive". While I had an overall decent experience I will not be returning. I still recommend The Encounter to my friends and family, I just make sure to mention how I would steer clear of the owner...

I began my journey at The Encounter this past November, and I can't express enough how wonderful this experience has been. From the moment I walked in, I was embraced by the warmth and positivity that Ethel, Teresa, Reene, Shelby, and Dee radiate. Not only do they offer an exquisite collection of women's clothing and stunning gowns for any occasion , but they have an uncanny ability to make every customer feel beautiful and confident. It's not just about the clothes, it's about the way they empower you to embrace your uniqueness. In a small town where high fashion might seem out of place, The Encounter stands as a beacon of elegance and style. I often find myself transported to a New York City boutique, surrounded by the latest trends and chic designs. Ethel and her team curated a selection that would make any fashionista's heart skip a beat. What truly sets The Encounter apart is the kindness and helpfulness of the entire team. They above and beyond to ensure that your shopping experience is nothing short of exceptional. They take the time to understand your preferences and help you find pieces that not only suit your style but also make you feel like the best version of yourself. The Encounter isn't just a store; it's a haven for those who appreciate the artistry of fashion. It's a place where you're not just a customer, but a valued member of their fashion-forward family. If you're looking for a place that combines high fashion with genuine care and positivity, look no further than...

Got my prom dress here. Beautiful dress, however it was $800 and they claimed that it was registered to my school and no else at my school would have it. Went to prom and another girl had the exact same dress and she also got it from them. We also later found out that the company that made the dress sold it for $300. The lady that did the alterations was amazing and did a wonderful job and so did the lady that helped me pick out the dress. Can’t say the same about the older lady (I’m assuming the owner) she was extremely rude. Called me ungrateful and insensitive all because I showed up for my alteration fitting early. I said I’d wait in my car and turned to walk out and she whispered to the other worker (or so she thought) that I was insensitive to others and ungrateful for their time. I was 5...