SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) — As new tariffs loom over imported goods, concerns are mounting within the local wedding industry about the potential impact on prices and small business profitability.
The wedding sector — which includes bridal boutiques, florists, photographers, and other entrepreneurs — could soon feel the ripple effects of increased import duties, particularly in the pricing of wedding gowns.
Bridal shops rely heavily on international designers and manufacturers, as many wedding dresses are made overseas. According to local experts, the gowns typically take three to four months to produce, and there is a shortage of skilled seamstresses within the United States to meet domestic demand.
As a result, if tariffs are imposed on imported bridal wear, production costs will rise. While manufacturers may absorb part of that financial burden, industry insiders say some of it will inevitably be passed down to retailers — and eventually, consumers.
“Inventory currently in stores shouldn’t be affected,” said Katlyn Froistad, owner of First Look Attire in Sioux City. “But once stores need to replenish their stock, that’s when we may see an increase in prices.”
Froistad encourages brides-to-be to remain aware of potential changes when shopping for their gowns. “Possibly increase that budget or know that when you’re shopping, to ask if that’s the final price. What’s that looking like?” she advised.
To illustrate the potential impact, Froistad gave the example of a $1,000 wedding dress. If subjected to a 100% tariff, that gown could double in price to $2,000 — a cost that may prove challenging for both consumers and small businesses.
“This could make it really difficult for local shops to continue turning a profit,” she added.
As tariffs remain a point of national policy debate, local entrepreneurs are keeping a close eye on the situation, hoping for clarity before the next shipment arrives.
