Wedding Gown Alterations
You ordered your wedding gown or purchased your wedding gown from inventory and now it is time for wedding gown alterations. Are wedding gown alterations always needed? Where do I go for alterations? How long does it take for your wedding gown alterations? How much will it cost me? – These are the common questions we receive when we work our brides. So let’s answer those questions for you.
Are wedding gown alterations always needed?
In a simple answer YES! Wedding gowns are not produced to your exact measurements. So you will normally need some type of alteration. So there is no need to be concerned if your dress needs a hem or shaping in a certain area.
Where do I go for wedding gown alterations?
At Lily’s Bridal and Prom Boutique we provide our brides with a list of recommended seamstresses all over Maryland. We do this for several reasons. The main one is convenience for the bride. This way you have a seamstress that offers hours that fits your schedule and location. The second reason is we do not like to have a seamstress meet you at the store and then take your wedding gown with them to sew offsite. To us this leaves room for your dress being damaged. To Lily’s it is safer and so much more convenient for you to have a seamstress that meets you and sews your wedding gown all at the same place. This does not mean we do not know about alterations. I am what you call a dress engineer. I know dresses are put together and sewn.
How many appointments will be needed for my wedding gown alterations?
Typically you will meet with your seamstress three times. Your first appointment is to determine what needs to be done and discuss pricing. Please make sure you get what will be done and the cost in writing. This will protect you and the seamstress. Keeps everyone on the same page. Your second appointment will be about tweaking and more shaping. The 3rd appointment will be final fitting and pick up. You may require additional appointments if you are having changes outside the normal alterations to your wedding gown.
How much are wedding gown alterations?
This is an area that has a large price range due to so many factors. The dress material, the dress layers, lace, beading, and so on. Our industry standard price range is $300 – $600. This is where we strongly recommend discussing price at your first appointment. You can always shop around for pricing but please research the seamstress and read their reviews.
When should I book an appointment for my wedding gown alterations?
Lily’s Bridal strongly recommend three months prior to your wedding date. Book that appointment as soon as you can. Remember there are other clients for your seamstress. Not to mention the peak wedding season too. The spring and fall are busy times for most seamstresses. So plan ahead!