Facchianos Bridal and Formal Attire has been providing everything from prom dresses to tuxes and gorgeous gowns for family milestone events for over 23 years.
"It all started with my best friend Fran when she was getting married," Jennifer Thompson, the shop owner, said. "I made her gown and all of the bridesmaid dresses in six months, I just loved being a part of something so special."
Now the formal wear shop has taken a huge financial hit amid the coronavirus pandemic.
"This first quarter is usually like our stores Christmas because we have so many people coming in for dresses and suits," Thompson said. "This is a massive hit for us."
COVID-19 safety restrictions have caused the store, located at 4910 W Kenosha St, Broken Arrow, OK 74012, to close its doors to the public, but Thompson has shifted to virtual appointments through Zoom to keep helping families get ready for celebrations like weddings, bar mitzva’s, and postponed graduations.
Despite the big financial hit her store has taken, at the beginning of what is supposed to her busiest season, Thompson refuses to furlough or cut pay for any of her employees.
“I’m the captain of this ship, so we’re either going to sink together or keep going," Thompson said. "They are my people, my people I care about, and they all have mortgages, some live on their own that are in school, they need their money.”
Thompson says she and her team are used to changing with the times, so while high school prom season is up in the air, they are trying to focus on helping brides who were scheduled to be seen during this time.
"What many people don't know is that when you order a dress, you actually get it about six months later," Thomspon said. "So, by the time we reopen, brides will not have time to order."
To prevent delays as families get closer to the big day, they are helping brides, and bridesmaids, get body measurements at home while they are on Zoom with them. From there, customers can look at the immediate store selection online.
"We have 100 plus wedding dresses immediately available for these brides on eCommerce site," Thompson said. "This gives them time to make alterations when everything opens back up again."
To schedule a virtual appointment, call 918-461-8697 To look at their selection of men's suits and accessories and women's gowns and accessories, click here.
Every Friday, the shop hosts an accessory sale for brides on their Facebook page, to see the latest on what they are offering click here.
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