The Sample Room NY — Local services in New York

I did not have a good experience here. From the minute we walked in, they made it feel like an inconvenience that I had brought friends. Despite the fact that they allowed up to 3 and I had 3 people. There was also another woman there "finishing" up her appointment, with friends/family, and thus we were shuffled off to a side mirror where my friends had to scavenge around for chairs. The other client was there for basically the entirety of my appointment time. It was a very rushed experience over all and they kept telling me to move on after looking at the dress I was wearing for just a minute or two. There was no private changing room, just a back corner with a temporary folding barrier. The other client was dressing and undressing in the same area, and just a random chair onto which we both stuffed our street clothes. Since the man helping me couldn't be back in that area, the woman helping the other client would hurriedly and distractedly zip up my dress or clip it. I understand that they have samples, and not a huge range, but it's not the best place for larger sizes. After trying on 5 or so dresses that I had picked out, they didn't recommend any others. Only after my friend repeatedly asked did they acquiesce to us looking through the racks at other dresses to get an idea of what I liked and didn't like. Perhaps a better place to go when you have a solid idea of what you want, or are looking for a specific dress. Not as...

The Sample Room was the second bridal salon I visited this past weekend, and I had a fantastic experience. Having had a terrible time at the first salon we tried that morning, I came into my Sample Room appointment feeling discouraged and worried that this appointment would be just as disappointing and humiliating. But from the moment I walked in, both the consultant and the seamstress were absolutely lovely and welcoming, making me feel hopeful again even though I didn't immediately see a dress that I was drawn toward. They helped me to pull a selection of dresses to try on, and the second dress I put on ended up being 'the one.' It was somehow marked down below my $1500 budget, which I'd been ridiculed for at the other store. They were both extremely attentive, friendly, patient, and kind, and Nora also helped me to brainstorm how to make a few needed alterations to the bustline and back of the dress, which I will go back for in a few months.

Be aware that the selection isn't huge because it's a sample salesroom, not a big box store or larger boutique! Some of the bad reviews seem upset about this. But if the right dress is here when you come, it's magical. Totally worth checking out, especially for brides on a budget who like lace or beading! If I hadn't found a dress that day, I would've gone back in a month or so to look at their new stock. 10/10...

Absolutely fantastic. I called for a same-day (in 30 minutes!) appointment and was welcomed in. They assigned me a consultant, who asked some questions about my likes/dislikes, and she pulled some dresses while I also was allowed to peruse the racks to pull a few more. Great assistance getting into and out of the dresses. HUGE patience as I wanted to try my #1 and #2 choices on over and over again. They brought out different accessories for me to try. I cannot stress how kind and creative and patient they were. The co-owner even came to give thoughts and opinions, which was really helpful as I've been shopping alone and wanted some input. Amazing selection in a range of sizes and prices. Haggle. Prices might not be as marked.... The only thing they could use are a few extra pair of "try on" shoes. The ones they have are strappy sandals and are impossible to buckle on and likewise impossible to walk in if you don't buckle them. I made a purchase and was handed a glass of lovely fizz to ship to enjoy (lighten the shock) while they completed the transaction AND my consultant made a few tiny repairs (gratis) for me. Such GREAT people. All in all a delightful and successful experience. I'm...