HOW TO FIND A WEDDING GOWN ALTERATIONS EXPERT! (PART 3 OF OUR 4 PART ALTERATION SERIES)
We've been discussing alterations in Part 1 (Your First Fitting) and Part 2 (Creating a Flawless Fit) in our alterations series. Fit is crucial to a flawless look on your wedding day. Now the question is, how does a bride find the right alterations expert to help her with proper fit and alterations?
You should start thinking about alterations BEFORE you finalize the purchase of your wedding gown. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding your gown, but that's only the first step in the dress process.
True, full service bridal salons, both large and small, should offer in house alterations. This reassures the bride that the salon stands behind their gowns and will take care of the bride right up to her wedding day. In reality, many salons do not provide alterations for the gowns they sell. They will give you a list of "preferred" seamstresses and then it is up to you, the bride, to find the one that you feel the most comfortable with.
So what's a bride to do?
If the salon where you find your dream dress dpes offer in-house alterations, get a written estimate of anticipated alterations. Although these might change a bit once your gown arrives, at least you will have a general idea of what to expect. Find out how many fittings are included. If your weight changes, will you have to pay again? You don't want to find out after your gown arrives that your alterations are double or more than what you expected.
What happens when you find a gown you love, but the store does not offer in-house alterations or you're not able to have them done there? Do ask for a list of their preferred seamstresses. We've found that almost all salons have a list of local gown alteration experts. Call around and check their availability and timeline for your alterations. During the busiest of months, some simply may not be available. You can also ask for a general price range, but know that the only way to get an exact quote is to take the dress in and have it reviewed in person.
How do you find a bridal gown alteration specialist once you decide to buy a gown from a shop where you will not have alterations done? Best place to start is with friends and family. Get referrals from brides you know that have recently been married.
You might also check online. Look for wedding gown specialists, not general alteration seamstresses. If time allows, get a couple of estimates. It's important to find someone who is not only skilled in alterations, but who is up to date on fashion and trends. When you meet with them, are they ale to work with your time frame and idea?
Although it may seem a bit of a daunting task, trust yourself, listen to your inner voice and make the choices that will make you the most comfortable. Although the seamstress is the expert in alterations, it's your dress. Are you both on the same page with the final vision of what you want to look like and how you want your gown to fit on your wedding day?
The final chapter of our 4 part series will be "The Epiphany Alterations Experience". See you next week!
Do you have a question that we've not covered? We're here for you! Our team of bridal consultants are available to answer any of your questions. Drop us a note or call us directly in Carmel at 831-626-7700 or San Luis Obispo at 805-439-1218.
