Frequently Asked Questions

 

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Payment

What are the methods of payment?

TJ Formal accepts all major credit cards and debit cards--Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.  This is the method of payment we recommend because it is the fastest, easiest way to ensure that you get the dress you want! Our site is 100% secure, so you can be safe placing your order online. See: When is my credit/ debit card charged?

Paypal payments are accepted and are a simple, secure way to pay. See: How do Paypal payments work?

Personal checks and money orders are also accepted, but will cause a delay in your order processing. See: How are personal checks and money orders handled? [top]

When is my credit/debit card charged?

Your credit or debit card will be AUTHORIZED for the amount of the purchase at the time you place your order.  This is to assure us that your funds are available so that we can begin processing your order.  If we are then able to fill your order as requested in time for your wear date/ event we will then charge the full amount to your card.  (We must charge the amount of the purchase at that time due to most items being special orders.)  However, if we are not able to fill your order, your card will NOT be charged and you will be notified via email with the details.  Please allow several business days for the authorization of funds to be released.
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How do Paypal payments work?

Paypal is an easy, secure way of paying and you simply need to follow the directions at checkout to complete this process. These payments will be automatically deposited into our Paypal account.

If, for any reason, your order can not be filled as requested, we will refund your Paypal payment and notify you via email. If your order is filled as requested in time for your wear date/ event, we will also notify you via email and the payment process will be complete.  [top]

How are personal checks and money orders handled?

Personal checks should be mailed to us at the time the order is placed. Please include a copy of your order information for faster processing. Once we receive the check we will submit it to our bank for clearance.  After the check has cleared with our bank, we will then process your order.  Orders will NOT be processed, ordered, or shipped until personal checks have cleared.  We don’t recommend sending a personal check due to the delay it causes in placing your order, but if time isn’t a factor we’re glad to accept them.

Money orders should be mailed to us at the time the order is placed.  (You will see instructions on the screen to follow for payment with a money order when placing an order.)  Once we receive the money order we will process your order.  Orders will NOT be processed, ordered, or shipped until money orders are received.  Please remember that you submit a money order at your own risk and that they will cause a delay in processing your order. We are not responsible for problems that may occur in shipping/mailing!

Please note: Dresses CANNOT be "held" or reserved while awaiting payment.   The dress you want may be gone if you wait to send a money order or check, during the check processing, or by the time we receive payment.  A credit card or Paypal will give you the best chance of getting the dress you want right away!

If the dress you ordered is not available and we are unable to find an acceptable alternative for you we will issue you a refund check for the full amount of the purchase.  Please allow 2-4 weeks to receive this.  We are not responsible for problems (including loss or delivery problems) that may occur in mailing of refund checks.  Should you not receive your check within 4 weeks we will reissue you another for the full amount minus a $25.00 stop payment fee for the original check.

Checks and money orders can made out to: TJ Formal and can be mailed to: 1609 E. 20th St., Joplin MO, 64804
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Prom Hair Styles

A great prom hair style is so important for your prom look! To make sure you look your absolute best on your big night be sure to plan ahead. It's a good idea to practice your prom hair updo several weeks before your prom to see how long it will take, what items you will need, and if it's really the style for you and your dress. If you're having your hair done at a salon, make an appointment well in advance and take along a picture to show your stylist exactly what you want. Your prom pics will be great and you'll have more fun as you dance the night away.

Dressing Your Maids

The first step to choosing a bridesmaid gown is to determine the formality, style and fabric of the wedding gown so that the maids gowns do not overpower the bride. Choose the color first to narrow choices. You might want to begin choosing a gown style with the larger maids in mind. In recent years, prices have declined making the average maid's dress only $140. With careful selection, your bridesmaids will be happy with the final results and spend the wedding day celebrating with the bride and her groom.

How to Shop for Your Dress

Start shopping early. Try on lots of different styles to narrow your choices. Formal dresses run about one size smaller than your regular clothes. Take the salesperson's suggestions about what styles and colors look good on you. Let them help you try on the dresses to save you time. Alterations are important for a perfect fit. Allow plenty of time for alterations and fittings. Bring the shoes you will be wearing to your appt. Buy your jewelry, shoes and other accessories at the time of the dress purchase. Have a great time at your formal event!