Do I have to be a White Dress Society Member to attend The Retreat?
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 FREE (!) and it is an exceptional community of like-minded bridal store owners. It is 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. Click here to request membership.
If I am interested in sharing a room during The Retreat to cut down on cost, can you assist?
Yes, of course! If you email us at thewhitedressssociety@gmail.com we would be happy to send you a list of attendees that you can reach out to. Or, feel free to post a shout-out for a roommate on the private The White Dress Society Retreat : Tampa page!
What is the recommended dress code?
We recommend stylish, but comfortable. The schedule does not allow for a wardrobe change for evening activities, so as you plan your ensembles, know that you will be in the same outfit day to evening. The average temperature in Chicago in May is highs in the 70’s and lows in the 50’s, so layers are recommended.
Are meals provided in the registration fee?
Yes! You will be provided lunch, snack and cocktail hour with heavy hors d'oeuvres on the first day, breakfast, lunch and sit down dinner on the second day, as well as breakfast and lunch on the third day. Note that water and coffee will be readily available all day as you need it. 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 unless one of our members has a specific concern. Feel free to email us at thewhitedressssociety@gmail.com if you want to chat prior to registration. On the same note, know that during our smaller breakout sessions we will arrange the attendees so that you will not be with a direct competitor.
For traveling purposes, what time does The Retreat begin and end?
The Retreat will begin at 10 am on Sunday to allow for anyone who plans to arrive that morning. The Retreat will end at 1pm on Tuesday to accommodate late afternoon departures. Note that there is an additional option for a quintessential Chicago experience on Tuesday afternoon. More details on this event to come, but know that it is optional and is priced separately.
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 and non-transferable.
What is The Retreat investment and is there a payment option?
The total Retreat investment is $1200. 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 1, 2019. 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?
Yes! Our motto, is the more, the merrier! We will offer a $100 discount for each subsequent member of your ownership team that you register. To register additional attendees, please email thewhitedressssociety@gmail.com after you've completed your initial registration and we will send you a code to register at the discounted price. Please note : The Retreat is for store owners only. No managers will be in attendance.
