The coronavirus could bring delays for brides-to-be buying wedding dresses

With the summer wedding season in a few short months, the coronavirus outbreak could leave brides-to-be in panic.



Some may be unable to get the wedding gown they want for their big day.

About 70% of wedding dresses in the U.S. are imported from China, and many brides haven't planned for the coronavirus health crisis in China to disrupt the creation and shipping of their perfect dress.

"There will be problems. They can't get to their plant. Maybe some of the factory workers are stuck in the province of where they are, so they can't get out to get back to work," said Janell Berte, owner of POSH Bridal in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Some bridal shops have to plan.

"A lot of these stores do have extra gowns for backup," Berte said.

Berte opted to diversify her dress inventory.

"We went around the world. Our gowns come from Spain and from Lebanon -- not Lebanon, Pennsylvania, but Beirut, Lebanon -- and from Ukraine and from Romania. It has really kind of deflected a lot of the issues of what's happening right now," she said.

Berte said there is a benefit to going to a shop.

"If you buy a gown online that comes direct from China, if they can't get it out, they're not going to care that you're getting married that day, that month. You may not see the gown. You may not see your money. So, why risk it?" Berte said.


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