It's time for alterations...
When it comes to your wedding day, every detail counts, and that includes your dress. The right style is important, but it's just as important to make sure the dress fits you perfectly. That's where alterations come in. By taking care of the fit, you can be sure that you'll look and feel your best on your big day. Read on for helpful information & tips to consider as you prepare for the final steps with your wedding dress
Alterations: Getting Started
SCHEDULE YOUR FITTINGS
To begin your alterations, it is essential to reach out to your chosen seamstress and arrange your fittings. We recommend scheduling these fittings at least 8-10 weeks prior to your wedding day Keep in mind that customizations will require additional time to be completed, so plan accordingly Charlotte's offers a list of highly skilled professionals ready to assist you
Please note these seamstresses are independent of Charlotte's you are not obligated to use them, but you'll probably want to!
Alterations: Preferred Seamstresses
ANITA BENNETT
HOLMEN, WI | 608 317 7111 WHATKNOTSEWING@GMAIL COM
CHRIS DEGARMO
SPARTA, WI | 608.487.5976 HAPPYHEART1966@GMAIL COM
RENEE RYKAL BOYD, WI | 715 289 3982
BONITA
SANDERS
SPARTA, WI | 608 633 1937 BONITA1454@YAHOO COM
TRACEY GRINDE
MELROSE, WI | 715.896.3499
TRACEY GRINDE@GMAIL COM
SEAMS TO MI - MICHELLE
EAU CLAIRE, WI BOOK VIA FACEBOOK PAGE
LISA GILLE
TOMAH, WI | 608 343 5349 LMGILLE@YAHOO COM
KATHY BRANDT
OSSEO, WI | 715.271.6422 KATHYBSALTERATIONS@GMAIL COM
KELLEY JO HAYES
WHEELER, WI | 715 577 6635 thefittingroomandco com
Alterations: Prepare for your fittings
STEAM & PRESS YOUR WEDDING DRESS
Steaming and pressing the gown before starting alterations is important for accurate measurements and fittings, as it ensures a wrinkle-free fabric and allows the seamstress to assess the true length and drape If you purchased a package from Charlotte's this is a complimentary service through the shop, so be sure to call the store a week in advance to arrange
BRING SHOES & UNDERGARMENTS
Make sure to come prepared for your wedding dress fitting by bringing your shoes and undergarments Your choice of bra or shapewear can have a significant impact on your dress's fit Likewise, even a slight difference in heel height can greatly affect the ideal hemline of your gown
BRING INSPIRATION/CUSTOMIZATION IDEAS
Wedding dress alterations are your chance to transform your gown into something truly unique and tailored to you Whether you envision adding stylish sleeves or delicate straps, swapping out a zipper for a corset back, incorporating buttons or beading that catches everyone's attention, or selecting a distinctive bustle style a skilled seamstress can bring your vision to life Don't forget to bring your inspiration photos, and any extra materials needed
Alterations: Expected Costs
On average, the cost of wedding dress alterations ranges from $250 to $750, with the average falling near $450 However, it's important to note that the actual cost will depend on the specific alterations required to bring your vision to life To ensure clarity and peace of mind, we strongly recommend confirming all costs and planned alterations in writing with your trusted seamstress
Below you will find a quick guide to the average costs of typical wedding gown alterations Please keep in mind that each seamstress owns their business and will honor their own individual pricing structure
BODICEALTERATIONS
SLEEVES - ADD CAP/LONG
- ALTER/TAPER BEADING - HOURLY RATE
- RAISE/LOWER
TRAIN - REMOVE/SHORTEN
SKIRTALTERATIONS SLEEVE&SHOULDERALTERATIONS MISCELLANEOUS RESHAPE NECKLINE TAKE IN/LET OUT SKIRT SEAMS STRAPS
ADD/ADJUST
INITIAL CONSULTATION
HEM
ADD BELT/SASH $ 100–280 $ 30–170 $ 30–100 $ 30–40 $ 20–50 $ 20–40 $ 75–350 $ 200–400 $ 20–40 $ 50–200 $ 30–250 $ 40–70 $ 40–100 $ 55–120 $ 20–80 TAKE IN/LET OUT SIDE SEAMS
-
REPLACE ZIPPER/CORSET ADD BUSTLE SLEEVES
ADD BRA CUPS
SHOULDERS
Alterations: At Your Fittings
PLAN FOR MULTIPLE FITTINGS
Alterations are a meticulous process that typically involves a minimum of 3 fittings, along with a final pickup appointment Depending on the complexity of your alterations, it's not uncommon to have additional fittings beyond the initial three Embrace the journey and trust in your seamstresses' expertise
DON'T GO ALONE
While wedding dress alterations may not be the most exhilarating event, it can be beneficial to bring a trusted individual to your fittings for added support This person can serve as an extra set of eyes, ensuring clear communication between you and your seamstress while minimizing any potential misinterpretation Additionally, they can learn how to properly do your bustle, providing assistance on your wedding day
TRUST THE PROCESS
Approaching your early fittings with realistic expectations is key to a positive experience Keep in mind that experienced seamstresses have their preferred methods for alterations Some may prioritize perfecting the bodice fit before altering the hem, while others may temporarily remove beads and lace during alterations to avoid repetitive work The bustle might be sewn in stages Understanding these practices and having trust in your seamstress will greatly alleviate stress in the final months leading up to your wedding day Stay positive and confident in the process!
SPEAK UP
While it's important to trust the expertise of your seamstress, don't hesitate to voice any concerns that you may have. Remember, alterations on a wedding gown require time, and your seamstress may work on it over several weeks between fittings. Waiting too long to address your concerns may leave limited options for adjustments. Whether it's about the fit, the bustle, or the cost of alterations, it's best to communicate any concerns as early as possible. Once you've given your approval, the seamstress will proceed based on your agreed-upon decisions, making it difficult to make changes at a later stage. Stay proactive and ensure a smooth alteration process by addressing any concerns promptly.
Your wedding dress is a symbol of beauty and uniqueness tailored specifically to you!
With each alteration appointment, you are one step closer to the magical moment when you walk down the aisle, revealing the gown that best expresses the beautiful bride you are inside & out Enjoy the journey & please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions!