The owner of Rene Hill Originals is warning the public that the coronavirus outbreak in China may cause delays for dress orders.
A spokesperson said, “If your aim is to say ‘yes to the dress’ for the upcoming season, you had better move with haste to avoid disappointment.
“René Hill, the owner of Rene Hill Originals, is warning brides, bridesmaids and graduating students to expect delays for future orders due to factory closures in China related to the coronavirus.
“Our suppliers have taken several approaches to the problem. Some have stopped taking rush orders and have extended delivery times from four months to six months. Another one has stopped taking future orders as they cannot guarantee delivery times. Basically, you have to order from what is currently in stock.
“Customers should think ahead and order as soon as possible if the wedding or formal event is any time in 2020. The delays are impacting all product lines carried by the company, including wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses, prom gowns, evening wear, bridal accessories, shoes, and children’s formal wear.
“We participated in the recent Unveiled Love Affair Bridal Show at the Fairmont Southampton on February 2 and several brides were concerned about production delays because of the coronavirus. So, we took the proactive step and contacted our suppliers. The general consensus is that if the item is not in stock, we should expect delays in delivery.
“Typically, a bride should order a wedding gown four to six months in advance to allow time for the gown to be manufactured and then to have enough time for said gown to be altered to fit her body.
“Bridesmaids dresses will be the biggest challenge as brides tend to want very specific colours and styles. Then there is the issue of sizes.
“Though all dresses are not manufactured in China, the lace, the fabrics or other integral components may have a Chinese connection. The virus is affecting the fashion industry supply chain globally and currently, there is major uncertainty in the industry.
“Rene Hill Originals is located at 10 Queen Street in Hamilton and is the Bermuda representative for Morilee, Clarisse, Ursula of Switzerland, Michelle Bridal, Symphony Bridal – Accessories, Tease Prom, Sweeties Shoe Collections and Kids’ Dream.
“You may contact them by phone at [441] 232-0154 or via email at INFO@ReneHillOriginals.com.”
