Do I have to be a White Dress Society Member to attend The Retreat?
Registration is opened up to TWDS Members first on February 29th and to Non-Members on March 1st so we highly recommend joining membership to access this benefit and
the many others. While it is not required, we highly recommend that if if you are a bridal boutique owner, you should join The White Dress Society. It is exceptional community of like-minded bridal store owners. It is a way to connect, share ideas and get great advice. Often, as small business owners, we feel like we are on an island by ourselves. The White Dress Society allows you to know that there are others out there like you that are experiencing the same victories and challenges on a daily basis.
There are two ways to be involved in The White Dress Society:
The White Dress Society Membership: This paid membership provides you bi-monthly education session, monthly discussion groups and 24/7 access to an education library that can be used to educate yourself or train your staff. Members have exclusive access to products and discounts from our sponsors as well as to Membership events. Click here to join!
The White Dress Society Retailer Forum: This private Facebook group specifically for independent bridal store owners provides community and resources for like-minded bridal retailers. Request to join the conversation here!
If I am interested in sharing a room during The Retreat to cut down on cost, can you assist?
What is the recommended dress code?
We recommend stylish, but comfortable. The schedule will allow for a brief wardrobe change prior to our evening activities. We will provide a style guide as we get closer to the event.
Are meals provided in the registration fee?
Registration includes 2.5 days of educational sessions, time with fellow attendees and hosts to connect, brainstorm ideas together, and refuel your soul. Meals included: VIP: Lunch and heavy apps on Monday, Tuesday: Lunch and Heavy Apps at Cocktail Party at The Bridal House of Charleston, Wednesday: Breakfast, lunch, and pizza party at our retreat home base location, and Thursday: Coffee at Hotel Emeline. Coffee, water, and soft drinks will be available throughout the day. If you have specific dietary restrictions beyond what was mentioned on the registration form, feel free to email us at
thewhitedressssociety@gmail.com .
Do you limit attendee registration based on geographic location?
Although we are firm believers in community over competition, we do understand that you may not want to attended an intimate conference with your direct competitor. Registration is available on a first come, first served basis. We will not limit registration based on geographical area. If you have questions or concerns, feel free to email us at thewhitedresssociety@gmail.com.
For traveling purposes, what time does The Retreat begin and end?
Retreat begins on Tuesday morning (for non-VIP attendees - VIPs need to be in Charleston by Monday morning), so please plan your travel accordingly. We will wrap up by the afternoon on Thursday. We would recommend to plan to arrive in to Charleston on Monday, the 29th (for non-VIP attendees) and travel home on Thursday, the 2nd to be able to make the most of your time at the retreat. The closest airport is the Charleston International Airport (airport code: CHS) located in Charleston.
Is the registration fee refundable?
Because of the all inclusive nature of The Retreat, we are unable to offer refunds after registration. Registrations are non-refundable but are transferrable to another bridal store owner with the approval of The White Dress Society team.
What is The Retreat investment and is there a payment option?
The total Retreat investment is $2000 (or $2750 if you opt to do the VIP experience). And yes, you will be offered two payment options at the time of registration. You may pay the full price upon your registration OR you may pay in two equal installments: one half at the time of registration, with the balance due on or before April 18, 2024. We will send you an email notification just before the 2nd installment due.
I have a business partner. Is there a discount for subsequent attendees?
While we can't offer a partner discount for this retreat, we will provide a 2-for-1 offer for the VIP Experience for business partners, so you would only pay $750 for two of you versus $1500 for both. Please note: The Retreat is for store owners only. No managers will be in attendance.
What is included in the ameninity fees for the Emeline Hotel?
Emeline charges a daily Destination Amenity Fee of $22.00 plus tax per room, per day. This fee is posted to each guest room in order to provide our guests with an excellent selection of amenities and services to further their Charleston experience.
· Hi-Speed WiFi in guestroom and all public spaces
· The Nook – located on the guest floors, offering sparkling and still water, and fresh fruit.
· Morning Coffee from 6AM-9:30AM, daily Frannie & the Fox
· Welcome cocktail at check in, crafted by Frannie & the Fox
· One-time $15 Food & Beverage Credit
· Record players in suites with access to a library of Vinyl’s
· Bicycle usage, based on availability
· 24/7 Access to fitness center with on demand classes
· Wellness Passport – receive exclusive access to some of Charleston’s premier fitness studios: JaneDo, Pure Barre, The Wonderer, Pivotal Fitness, and F45.
· 20% discount on Carriage Tours with Old South Carriage Company
· VIP exclusive access to Cabana rentals at Little Palm Pool * additional fee applies*
· Captains Hour in Archives, daily from 3-4PM.
Is there parking at the Emeline Hotel? Valet parking is available in the Hotel’s private garage at the current rate of $49.00 per night and subject to change without notice. Metered parking and hourly garage parking is also available and is within walking distance of the Hotel.
