Most of us don’t have our garments altered to fit us perfectly. So when it comes to the wedding gown, brides are typically at a loss as to making sure this very important garment does fit them perfectly.
- It is always a good idea to ask around, get referrals from friends and family, or perhaps the place you purchased the gown. Most alteration shops work by appointment. Give yourself a two week window in which to schedule the initial fitting.
2. Calling ahead for prices won’t really get you much information. It is always best to have the dress seen and alterations assessed to get an accurate cost.
3. For the initial appointment, you really must have ALL the foundation garments you intend to wear with your gown. Bra cups can be sewn in to replace the need for a bra. Ask in advance if you need to supply the bra cups. Have THE shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day.
4. If you plan to wear those gorgeous high heels for the ceremony, then step into flats for the reception, think about which pair of shoes you want your dress hemmed for. If you hem it with heels on, you will be tripping on your dress at the reception. If you hem it for the flats, you will not like your formal wedding photos. You can find comfy shoes with the same heel height as the painful pretty ones. You could also forego the high pretty shoes for comfortable pretty shoes.
5. Don’t show up for your fitting frazzled, tired or hungry. Fittings can take up to two hours depending on the complexity of the design or alterations.
6. Make sure you discuss all the things about your dress that give you concerns. Pay attention to how it feels. If it feels tight after a few minutes, it will feel like a torture device after a long wedding day. Do a sit test, to make sure you can sit comfortably.
Bonus Tip: Also, let us know if you would like to add special details to your dress, such as adding beading or piece of your mother’s dress with a special message.
7. If you have plans to work out or diet, make sure you talk about it and see if arrangements can be made to have another fitting BEFORE the work is done, closer to the wedding. Alterations are a one time charge. If you lose weight after the work has been done, you will have to pay for another alteration.
8. Most of all, look your best! You will be looking at yourself in a mirror for at least an hour. Plenty of time to go all negative about your perceived flaws. Nobody needs to put themselves through that!
9. You should feel confident about the person doing work on your very important garment! If you don’t, offer to pay for their time, then find someone you do trust.
10. Naturally, I would recommend calling me for a free fitting consultation. Just contact us to get started!
