David’s Bridal files Chapter 11: What does it mean for brides-to-be and their bridesmaids?

David’s Bridal announced Monday it was filing for bankruptcy protection, leaving thousands of brides wondering how the decision might affect their big day. The retailer, which has 298 stores nationwide, has been outfitting brides and their bridal parties for more than 70 years.

Will I still get my wedding dress?

"It's business as usual,” said the manager at David's Bridal at The Pavilion in Port Orange, who declined to give her name. The manager also told a News-Journal reporter that only the company's corporate communications staff was authorized to speak to the media.

The company’s website assures customers that while David’s Bridal goes through the court process, stores will remain open for business and orders will be filled as usual. Online orders will also be accepted.

The company doesn’t foresee any delays in fulfilling orders, either, according to a company press release.

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What about my bridesmaids’ dresses?

David’s Bridal’s main focus right now, according to its website, is delivering every order on time, whether it’s a bridal gown, bridesmaid dresses, or dresses for mothers-of-the-bride and mothers-of-the-groom.

Is David’s Bridal still offering alterations in-store?

The alterations department will not be affected by the bankruptcy proceedings, the website says.

What about gift cards and Diamond member points?

The retailer had this to say about gift cards: "At this time, customers can continue using gift cards in accordance with the company’s usual policies."

David's Bridal at the Pavilion in Port Orange. The company filed for bankruptcy protection just days after laying off 9,200 employees
David's Bridal at the Pavilion in Port Orange. The company filed for bankruptcy protection just days after laying off 9,200 employees

The site said it expects to continue honoring store credits as well.

The store’s Diamond Loyalty program, which offers one point for each dollar spent, is not affected by the bankruptcy proceedings, at least not yet. “We expect you can continue to earn and redeem your Diamond points for rewards …” the website states.

What if I need to return my dress?

The existing return/exchange policies are still in place “at this time,” according to the website.

Staff writer Clayton Park contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: David's Bridal files for bankruptcy, retailer expects business as usual