Is there a charge for alterations?

Bridal alterations are difficult and time consuming. They require a highly qualified seamstress to perform her craft so that the gown looks as if no alterations were executed to it. Our seamstress does wonderful work and is very diligent to make sure that each and every customer is 100% satisfied with the fit of their garment. To provide this service does require us to charge a fee. You are only charged for what needs to be done, and this will be detailed on your alterations slip. The price depends on what you need done and the complexity of the job. Altering a plain gown is less intensive than altering a beaded or multi-layered gown, and the price will reflect that. Remember, taking out ¼” or 3” costs the same. Alterations are paid in full at the first appointment. Alterations cannot begin until the full payment is made.

When should I schedule my first fitting?

We generally schedule your first fitting about 8 to 12 weeks before your wedding. Whether your dress is purchased from stock or is ordered, we suggest that you schedule a fitting appointment with us as soon as the gown is purchased or arrives, as our seamstress can get quite busy. Generally, fittings are done as soon as the gown is purchased, with a final fitting one to two months prior to your wedding. You will usually need 2 or 3 fittings, to perfect the gown, after which it will be ready for you to take home. We also advise you not to delay scheduling your appointment so you can avoid unpleasant delays or rush fees if our seamstress is fully booked close to your wedding date.

Do you alter gowns not purchased at A Bridal World?

Yes, we will alter gowns purchased elsewhere. We have helped many customers achieve their perfect look! Our first priority is booking alterations for gowns purchased from A Bridal World, so book your fitting soon to avoid rush charges.

My mom and maids also need alterations…

Our expert seamstress will alter gowns for anyone attending your wedding! With over 35 years of experience in altering bridal, mothers, bridesmaids, flowergirls, etc. we would be more than happy to alter a gown for anyone in your bridal party!

Can you customize a gown for debutantes or for religious reasons?

Our seamstress has extensive experience in adding sleeves, adding straps, removing trains and adding modesty panels to gowns for these reasons. When considering a gown, please discuss your needs with our consultant. Our seamstress can give you a quote on customizing your chosen dress.

How many fittings will there be?

There are usually 2 to 3 fittings. Complex jobs such as building up, creating sleeves and creating jackets will usually require at least 3 fittings. We are most concerned with the proper fit of your gown then in rushing you though the process of alterations.

What should I bring to my first fitting?

You should bring the shoes and undergarments (longline, crinoline) you’ll wear on your wedding day in order to have your gown properly fit through the bodice and hemline. Some brides chose not to wear a bra under their wedding gown and opt to have cups sewn in, which we can do as well. This can be discussed with the seamstress. If you still need to purchase your shoes or undergarments, please do not wait until your first fitting appointment. Plan to come to the store at least 30 minutes before your fitting appointment to purchase them, if you haven’t already, so that your fitting is not held up or rescheduled. It is necessary for your seamstress to determine the hemline & fit of the bodice of your gown with the actual undergarments and shoes you will be wearing on your wedding day, or your dress will not fit correctly.

What should I expect at the first fitting?

Our seamstress will pin you where needed. At that point, you can see how the dress will look closer to your size. She will discuss options with you such as how you want to bustle your train, how poofy you want your dress and whether or not you want built in cups. The first fitting is scheduled for and usually takes 1 hour.

When is the second fitting?

Our seamstress will discuss subsequent fittings at the end of your first fitting. It is generally 2-4 weeks after your first appointment.

I don’t have much time before my event. Can you do a rush on my alterations?

Yes, if we are able to accommodate your alterations order. There is an additional fee involved for rush orders.

When do I pick up my dress prior to the wedding?

The gown is picked up at the second or final fitting appointment. If you are satisfied with the results, we ask you to sign off on the service received. You may take your gown home that day.

Can I do my alterations elsewhere?

You are more than welcome to have your dress altered by someone other than our seamstresses. However, we strongly advise that your wedding gown be altered by a professional wedding gown seamstress. Altering a wedding gown can become complicated very quickly, and you don’t want to the possibility of a ruined wedding gown just to save some money.

end faq