Here comes the bride...
Here comes the bride...
Congratulations! We’re so glad you’re here. Keep on scrolling for all things bridal
Standard
Standard bridal alterations typically range from $500-$800. This price range is where you can expect to be if your dress needs the following:
Minor bodice alterations like adjusting shoulders/straps, taking in/letting out hips, adjusting detachable sleeve placement, etc.
Hemming - simple fabrics and low layer count (1-3)
Bustle
Bridal Pricing
Intermediate
Intermediate alterations typically range from $800 - $1,200. This price range is where you can expect to be if your dress is heavily adorned (lace, beadwork, or both) or needs major adjustments to the fit. You may be in this range if you need the following:
Major bodice adjustments (think multiple seams, or reworking of entire bodice)
Resizing a dress 2 or more sizes
Hemming - high layer count (4-8)
Multi-layer bustle
Re-Design & Custom
Re-design & Custom alterations start around $1,000 and can be upwards of $3,000. This price range may be for you if you are looking for services such as:
Custom sleeves or toppers
Adding or replacing layers to the skirt
Creating extra internal support like corsets and waist stays
Changing front or back neckline
Lining an unlined bodice or skirt
Reimagining or restoring a heritage gown
Every situation is unique and this is meant to serve as a guide. We have no minimum price for bridal alterations.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you still have questions or are ready to book please call or text 216.354.1377. Inquires can also be made via the form below.
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It is always a good idea to reach out as soon as you have purchased your dress to secure your appointment. We recommend starting the alterations process about 10 weeks prior to the wedding date to ensure the best fit.
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Yes! We can reserve space for you without having your exact appointment date selected. We know sometimes scheduling can be a challenge when you have an inconsistent work schedule. We typically navigate this by selecting the week you need to have your first appointment and following up in the week or two leading up to verify a time and date.
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Most brides will have three appointments. Two fittings and the final try-on/pick-up appointment. If your dress needs minimal alterations it is possible you may only need one fitting and if your dress needs major alterations you may need more. We can provide more guidance on what to expect during your first fitting.
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Possibly! We offer expedited bridal alterations for a fee dependent on turn around time as long as we have availability in the schedule. Please call us to inquire about expedited bridal for the fastest response.
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Absolutely! We kindly ask that you bring no more than 3 guests as our space cannot comfortably fit more than that.
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It is important to reduced the possibility of major fluctuations in weight or body composition once the alterations process begins to ensure the best fit. If you anticipate substantial changes in this area please make sure to mention that when scheduling your appointment so we can provide guidance on timing as every situation is unique.
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We require a non-refundable $100 deposit to schedule your bridal alterations and this will be applied to your total.
During your first fitting all services are quoted and 50% minus your deposit is due. The remainder plus any additional services added after the initial estimate are due at the pick-up appointment.
Other payment options are available upon request with approval of the designer.
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Yes! If there is someone who wants to cover your alterations but will not be coming to your appointment we are happy to send them a link to pay. All payments must be made in full before your dress can be picked up so if this is something you are interested in please be sure to communicate that as soon as possible so there are no delays in scheduling your pick-up.
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For any gowns that were purchased from a sample sale or off the rack at a bridal shop you will likely need to get it professionally cleaned prior to your first fitting. Gowns that have been frequently touched or tried on will likely have some areas of discoloration or minor stains and it is important to get those removed prior to beginning your alterations. If any stains are permanent we can look into solutions to cover or disguise them.
If you are unsure if your gown needs to be cleaned feel free to give us a call so we can guide you on what to look for.
Ready to start the process?
Tips and Tricks
Many brides ask how they can reduce cost when it comes to their wedding gown and I’m here to spill the tea.
Customizations
For most clients, hemming is the most costly part of their alterations. Get really clear on what shoe heights you’re open to considering when you go dress shopping. Some designers offer an option to order your dress a few inches shorter. Your bridal stylist will be able to help you understand if this will keep you from needing a hem.
If you are interested in adding detachable sleeves to your dress but the style you want is not offered by the maker of your gown you should be able to purchase yardage of matching fabric so we can make them for you. Sleeves can always be altered but if you want something that is a drastically different silhouette than what is offered as an add on custom sleeves may be the best way to get what you want.
Lace hem gowns
For all of my lace lovers out there - see if you are able to purchase your dress with the lace detached. Part of the reason lace hems are costly is because it takes a lot of time and attention to detail to remove the lace from your dress so that it can be shortened and reattached. Purchasing dress with the lace separated saves me a step and I pass that onto you in savings on your services.
Sizing
Too big is easier to work with than too small. Most styles that have a mesh top with corset details do not have extra fabric inside to let out. If we need to create more space in your top panels will need to be added or potentially a lace up back insert. This may change the overall look of your dress so please consider this when talking through sizing with your bridal stylist.
Sample sale dresses
Do they really save you money? Short answer, yes. Long answer, you will likely need more alterations than the standard bride so please keep this in mind when you’re looking at styles that may be a few sizes too big. Ultimately sample sales and trunk shows can make dresses that would otherwise be out of budget affordable but keep in mind you may end up paying ~$1,000 in alterations to make it fit perfectly.
