Our
Alterations
Process
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Welcome to your complete step-by-step alterations guide!
Step 1: Consultation
COME IN FOR YOUR CONSULTATION 3-4 MONTHS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING
The first meeting with one of our tailors is considered a consultation to discuss what changes can and will be made to the gown. The most common alterations include: taking in or letting out the side seams, shortening the hem, a bustle, and adding bra cups.
Additional alterations often include: shortening/removing the train, slimming the skirt, changing the neckline, adding sleeves, lowering the back, adding/taking away buttons and the list goes on. We love being creative with the bride and want to make her vision come to life!
Shoes and any shape-wear or specific undergarments that are planned to be worn with the gown on the wedding day are needed for all alterations appointments. Even if a bride does not plan on wearing underwear the day of, underwear is required to be worn at all fittings.
After being pinned by the seamstress, you will meet with our alterations manager to schedule the rest of your fittings and pick-up date for your dress. At this time, pricing will be broken down and a 50% deposit is due. The other half of is due at the final fitting or pick-up date.
Step 2: Fittings
FITTINGS ARE SCHEDULED ABOUT A MONTH APART LEADING UP TO YOUR WEDDING
Our 30 minute long fittings are essential to ensure that the gown will have a perfect fit on the big day. Brides can fluctuate in weight, decide to add a belt, not need cups, etc. Shoes and undergarments are needed at every fitting.
Please be aware that seams will not be done at your fittings. This allows your tailor to take in or let out side seams as needed until it is ready to be complete.
Most importantly, have fun during these appointments! We love to see our brides happy during this time, which is best done with an optimistic attitude and of course some champagne :)
Step 3: Pick-Up
YOU SHOULD PICK UP YOUR DRESS RIGHT BEFORE HEADING TO THE VENUE OR THE AIRPORT IF POSSIBLE
Alterations are done and ready for the big day! All dresses are steamed, in a bust form, and stuffed with tissue paper in a white fabric dress bag. Try to leave as much space in the back seat so the dress can lay flat. Once arriving to the destination's dressing room, it is best to hang the gown from the highest point and lay the tissue paper on the ground for the train.
We give all brides a helpful hints list! The list has tips such as to always use distilled water if touch up steaming is needed, use baby wipes instead of Shout if something gets on the dress, use a crochet hook for functional buttons, and to always always have safety pins on hand!
We are always here to answer any questions to help the day go as smooth as possible. Feel free to call us if anything comes up and we will try our best to help you.
Pricing
PRICING VARIES ON EVERY DRESS...BUT HERE'S A ROUGH ESTIMATE
Brides should be sure to budget for the necessary alterations which generally run between $700-$1000 but can vary depending on the detailing of the dress such as a scallop lace hem. Basic alterations include shortening the hem, adding a bustle, taking in the side seams, taking up straps (if applicable) and sewing in cups.
Customizations, such as making a strapless dress have straps or adding beadwork, are beyond basic alterations and will be an additional cost.
Alterations may sometimes seem expensive, but a wedding gown should fit unlike any other garment. Our tailors put in so much time and hard work into making this happen for our brides.
QUESTIONS? ANSWERS.
When should I book an appointment to start my alterations?
At Weddings 826, we suggest you come in12-16 weeks before the wedding.
How many fittings do I need before my dress is complete?
A consultation, first fitting, and final fitting is what most brides need. However, you can have a second fitting, or "just in case" fitting after your final fitting if needed. We do not charge per fitting.
What do I need to bring for my fitting?
Please bring your shoes and any undergarments you plan on wearing. Underwear must be worn at every fitting.
Do I need to do anything special to prepare for my fittings?
We ask that brides come clean faced to their fittings in order to keep your dress clean and makeup free.
What if I have to reschedule a fitting?
We totally get it, life happens, which is why we start the process 3-4 months in advance to have a little wiggle room in your schedule. We also ask that you reschedule your appointment if you have forgotten/don't have your shoes, especially for your consultation (they're kind of important).
What is a bustle?
A bustle is made out of either hook and eyes or loops and ribbons to pick up the train and keep it from dragging on the floor. There are different variations of bustles including the french and the english, we will go over option in the fittings.
Who should I bring to my fittings?
You can bring whoever you would like! We suggest that the person who will be dressing you and bustling your dress come to the final fitting so they can practice bustling and using the crochet hook if you have functional buttons on your dress. We currently have a max of 1 guest per bride for alterations appointments.
What if I can't be the one to pick up my dress?
No worries! Just let us know who will be in charge of picking up your dress.
Yay, I got married!! Now what do I do with my dress?
We offer wedding gown preservations at Weddings 826. It takes about 2-3 months and the dress is chemically preserved and put in a box with a window display. You can preserve up to 3 accessories with the gown and it lasts 100 years!