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Your Guide to Wedding Dress Alterations
At Emma Jayne Bridal, we understand that your wedding dress is one of the most important garments you'll ever wear. Our expert bridal alteration services ensure your gown fits perfectly, making you feel confident and beautiful on your special day. Here’s a step-by-step guide to our wedding dress alteration process.
Choose a Bridal Alterations Specialist
While your local tailor is excellent for altering your day-to-day wear, they don't compare to a bridal alterations specialist. General tailors may lack the time or skills to provide quality alterations to your gown. Bridal seamstresses, like those at Emma Jayne Bridal, dedicate their time solely to wedding and formal dresses, providing meticulous and undivided attention to each gown. Bridal specialists are a worthy investment, as their exclusive focus ensures unparalleled dedication and expertise, ensuring your dress fits perfectly for your big day.
Budget
It is essential to budget for your wedding dress alterations. Alterations are crucial to transforming a beautiful dress into THE dress by ensuring it fits you perfectly, and the cost can vary depending on the complexity of the work. At Emma Jayne Bridal, we generally recommend budgeting between $300 and $1000 for alterations, with a full set of alterations* typically costing $500-$700. More extensive alterations and customizations could be an additional $200-$1500+. We provide a detailed estimate after your initial consultation. Keep in mind that high-quality alterations are an investment in ensuring you look and feel your best on your wedding day.
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* A full set of wedding dress alterations is typically a fit adjustment in the bust, waist or hips, hemming and a bustle.
Book Early
Bridal Alterations Specialists, like other wedding vendors, book up early. To secure your spot, book your alterations as soon as you order your dress, or even before! Emma Jayne Bridal accepts bookings up to a year in advance and fills up particularly quickly during the busy wedding season. To maintain high-quality workmanship, Emma only takes on a limited number of gowns per month.
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To reserve your space, head over to Emma's Bridal Alterations online booking calendar. Choose a time slot about 8-10 weeks before you need your dress. If your wedding is still many months away, you can also book an earlier appointment to discuss your alterations, get an estimate and schedule your alterations to start closer to your wedding date.
First Fitting
Your first fitting should be about 8-10 weeks before your wedding date. During this fitting, we’ll assess the dress's fit and identify the necessary alterations, starting with the body and then moving on to the hem in subsequent fittings. Alterations might include taking in or letting out seams, adjusting the hem, altering straps, or adding bustles for the train. We’ll pin the dress to show where adjustments will be made and ensure you’re comfortable with the planned changes. We charge a non-refundable $30 booking fee for this appointment, which goes towards the final cost of your alterations.
After you receive your estimate, a 25% deposit is required before sewing commences.
Common Alterations
While each dress is unique, several common alterations include:
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Hemming: Adjusting the length to suit your height and chosen footwear.
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Taking in or letting out: Altering the seams for a perfect fit around the bust, waist, or hips.
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Straps and sleeves: Adding or removing straps, sleeves, or shoulder details.
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Bustle: Creating a bustle to lift and secure the train for ease of movement during the reception.
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Neckline alterations: Modifying the neckline to suit your preferences.
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Adding or removing embellishments: Customizing the dress with beadwork, lace, or other decorative elements.
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A standard set of alterations is typically a fit adjustment in the bodice or hips, hemming and a bustle.
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​Following the first fitting, we’ll schedule the next fitting. Emma will meticulously carry out the necessary alterations, ensuring each stitch enhances the beauty and fit of your gown. Depending on the complexity and urgency, 2-3 weeks are typically allowed between fittings to complete the alterations.
Progress Fittings
Most brides need just one progress fitting, though multiple fittings may be required for complex alterations. During this appointment, we assess the changes and make any necessary adjustments. Remember to bring your shoes and undergarments for an accurate assessment. The hem and bustle will be pinned at your last progress fitting, as alterations to the bodice can affect the overall length of the dress.
Final Adjustments and Pick-Up
In the final fitting, we’ll review the dress to ensure every detail is flawless. You’ll have the opportunity to try on your veil and accessories, move around, sit, and even dance to ensure comfort and fit. Any final adjustments will be made promptly. Once you’re completely satisfied, your dress will be ready for pick-up.
Day-of Dressing Service (Optional)
For a stress-free wedding day, we offer an optional day-of dressing service. Emma will steam your gown and assist you in getting into it, ensuring it’s perfectly positioned and looks stunning. This service is especially helpful for dresses with intricate details or complex fastenings, taking the pressure off your bridesmaids or mother.
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Tips for a Successful Alteration Process
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Schedule Early: Contact your Bridal Alterations Specialist as soon as you order your dress. Start the alteration process about 8-10 weeks before your wedding day.
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Avoid Crash Diets: You don’t need to change your body to fit into your dress. If you plan to change your weight, aim to maintain your weight once alterations begin.
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Bring Essentials: Always bring your wedding shoes and undergarments to every fitting.
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Communicate Clearly: Share your vision and concerns with us. Your feedback is crucial for achieving the perfect fit.
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At Emma Jayne Bridal, we’re dedicated to making your wedding dress fit like a dream. Our expertise in bridal alterations ensures your gown will be as unique and beautiful as your love story. Schedule your consultation today and let us help you shine on your special day.