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custom wedding gown design process

The Process

 custom wedding gown design process

Our custom wedding gown design process:

Whether you choose to have a custom wedding dress made, an heirloom gown redesigned, or your wedding gown altered or restyled, our goal is to create your dream dress.

The typical timeline for Custom Wedding Gowns is 6 to 8 months, Heirloom Gowns and Restyles – 4 to 6 months, Bridal Alterations – 6 to 8 weeks.

Proper foundation garments and bridal shoes are required at each fitting to ensure a proper fit.

Custom Gowns

Your initial consultation will consist of you providing us with your vision of the gown you wish to have created for you – supported by photos, sketches, actual dresses, etc. to ensure we are on the same page. We will then discuss fabric choices and give you an estimate and a timeline. From there, we will set up a series of fittings – at least 3 – to accommodate the most perfect fit. Your first fitting will include a muslin mock-up – on which we will make the proper corrections before transferring to your actual fabric. Fittings will continue until your dress is complete. Foundation garments and bridal shoes are required at each fitting.

Heirloom Gowns

You will bring your heirloom gown to the initial consultation – we will review the condition of the dress and discuss the changes you want or need incorporated into the dress, in order to make it perfect for your special day. Gowns which have been preserved are our preference, as they allow the most flexibility against decomposition of the dress. If necessary, we can attempt to replace parts or pieces of the dress to give it a better fit for you. We can also try to match laces and fabrics as close as possible to the original dress. You will have a series of fittings which will all be done on the original dress – unless there is a major restyle that requires a muslin mock-up. Again, foundation garments and bridal shoes are necessary at each fitting.

Bridal Alterations/Restyle

Our expertise in making wedding gowns allows us a unique position to offer you the best bridal alterations! We can alter any wedding gown from any store, including those purchased online. You will bring your dress to your initial consultation where we will discuss the fit and any changes you would like. You will also need to bring the bridal shoes and any foundation garments you plan to wear on your wedding day. We will schedule a series of fittings based on the work you need done. Please know that any additions to your gown that require extra fabric should be ordered from the designer of your gown at the same time your dress is ordered. This can be accomplished through the store where your dress is purchased.

David Tutera told me, “Your dresses are stunning…”

Final Fitting– Your final fitting will be our opportunity to make sure everything is to your liking before we add the finishing touches for your pickup.

Pickup– At pickup, we will show you and your attendant how to properly put you into the dress, the bustle, and any pertinent details of your dress.

Rush orders accepted as our schedule allows for a nominal fee.

We accept orders nationwide.

We look forward to working with each of you!

We are also on The Knot and Wedding Wire! 

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(773) 715-5485

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We are also on The Knot and Wedding Wire!