Alterations
When should I start my alterations?
We usually recommend starting them about 2-3 months out from wedding date.
They are typically done in 2-3 appointments:
1) [Bridal Alteration] Consult and price estimate, we go through and pin/mark any changes that need to be done. Payment is due at this time. We prefer full payment but can start work with a 60% deposit. From here, we woud schedule the next appointment accordingly.
2) [2nd Bridal Fitting] Ensure changes are correct (in many cases before reapplying laces or closing linings etc.) & establish if anything else needs to be done. Some changes in the bodice require hems to be marked after they are worked on so at this point we would schedule an extra fitting or two.
3) [Alteration Pickup] These can be scheduled 1 month - same week of wedding to ensure that perfect fit right before the big day.
Rush alterations can be accommodated depending on schedule.
What is the average cost of alterations?
Our alterations average around $500+ for a bridal gown. Every dress & bride are different. We usually look at how the dress fits in the bust, waist, hips, hem length, style of bustle, sleeve or strap adjustments etc.
The hem is one of the most expensive costs & can be ordered custom [with specific designers] at a lower price or can sometimes be avoided with the right heel. An estimate can be given on your dress but we won't know the exact price until the first consult.
For formal gowns we usually quote about $100+. This is all dependent again on what is exactly needed to be done and and the work that will go into it (lace, beading, amount of layers or width etc.)
What should I bring?
Bring with you any special undergarments (shapewear, bra, spanx) you want to wear with your dress. Most dresses come with bra cups or we can also sew these in. Don't forget to bring your shoes! This is very important as we need them to accurately mark the length of your dress. Something "like this" can result in expensive fixes.
How long is the appointment?
We schedule our bridal alterations appointments for 45 min. We find this plenty of time to go through everything. Special occasion and bridesmaids gowns are 20 min.
Can I take my dress if I didn't buy it at 11/11?
Definitely! Again, we recommend starting 2-3 months out from your wedding date.
Can I take my bridesmaid, mother of the bride, prom, special occasion dress for alterations?
Yes! Special occasion gown alterations range anywhere from $50-$200+. They are dependent on what work needs to be done and the dress itself (beaded, lace, trim etc. We usually look at hems, sides taken in/out, strap adjustments, bra cups etc