5/5
This is a bit of a long, overdue review for Irene and the seamstress, Esther. I first heard of Love Boat from my cousin's wife, who also purchased her wedding gown from Irene last year. Immediately, I texted Irene and we worked together to find an open appointment given my night shift schedule, lack of uniformity from week-to-week, and living out of state at the time! Needless to say, I was under self-pressure to "say yes to a dress". While I booked appointments for other bridal boutiques, I ended up coming back to Love Boat for several reasons.
Upon first entering Love Boat, you'll notice the bridal gown selection is limited but that's okay!! We still made it work; just keep reading :) You can't beat Irene's warm and relaxed personality. Although she is a businesswoman, never once did I feel pressured to purchase anything from her. I left with a dress in mind, but decided to browse other stores just to view options and be sure of what I wanted. One thing I appreciated (especially because I'm so indecisive & such a visual person) was her willingness in allowing me to come back and try on the dress again, maybe even two more times...you'll notice it's common for bridal boutiques to charge a fee after a second or third visit, but not Irene!
I ended up loving a dress elsewhere but because I gravitated towards Irene and wanting to do business with her, I texted Irene a picture and video of the dress I wanted. She did some research, found out info on the dress, & texted me back with a picture to confirm along with the cost she would charge me. Immediately, I was sold!!
We found a day for me to come in, take some measurements, and get the appropriate size dress ordered. Irene told me she'd text me when the dress arrived at the store so we could arrange another day for me to come in & have the seamstress (Esther) take additional measurements to have the dress fitted to my body. Because they were so amazing and accommodating, I asked about getting my cultural attire, which was designed & made in another country, tailored. Esther had me try it on there & suggested some modifications. I trusted her and I'm so glad I did. She knew what she was doing & was open to hearing my concerns! She even changed a few things, like the zipper, to make it more secure -- things I may have not even thought of myself.
I say this all to recommend that you visit Irene & Esther at Love Boat Bridal Boutique! You won't regret it! Tell me another bridal boutique with great customer service, that goes above & beyond to get you what you want, AND with affordable prices that are unbeatable because they include alterations in the cost. I'll wait :)