Question 1

How far in advance should I book in for my wedding dress alterations?

Accepted Answer

Due to limited availability and to ensure every dress has adequate time for careful work, I tend to book up well in advance. For popular summer wedding months, this can be 6–12 months ahead.

I recommend booking as soon as you have purchased your dress. That said, a minimum of 1–2 months is usually required for bridal alterations, so even if your wedding is approaching, it is always worth enquiring to check availability.

Question 2

How long do alterations take and how many appointments will I need?

Accepted Answer

Your first fitting usually takes place around two months before your wedding date. Depending on the complexity of the alterations required, most brides will need 2–3 fittings in total.
Each appointment allows time to refine the fit and details, ensuring your dress feels comfortable and perfectly balanced by the final fitting.

Question 3

How much do bridal alterations cost?

Accepted Answer

A £40 deposit is required to book your initial consultation and secure the alteration process, which is deducted from your final balance.

On average, most brides spend around £340 on alterations with me. However, as every dress and body is unique, a final quote can only be provided after seeing the dress at your fitting.
More embellished or heavily detailed dresses may cost slightly more, as they often require extensive hand sewing and specialist techniques.

Question 4

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring:
 • The shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day
 • The underwear or shapewear you intend to wear
These are essential to ensure the correct length, proportions, and overall fit of your dress.

Question 5

I am travelling abroad before my wedding – should I book earlier?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Please let me know both your wedding date and travel dates when enquiring. We can then schedule your alterations to begin at the most suitable time, ensuring everything is completed comfortably before you leave.

Question 6

Where are you based?

Accepted Answer

I am based in Manchester, working from my studio by appointment only. Full location and parking details are provided once your booking is confirmed.

Question 7

Can I bring someone with me to my fittings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are welcome to bring up to two guests to your appointment. 
I recommend choosing someone supportive who respects your vision — ultimately, how you feel in the dress matters most.

Question 8

Is your studio accessible?

Accepted Answer

My studio is located on the first floor and is accessed via stairs, with no lift available.
If you have any accessibility concerns or specific requirements, for yourself or someon coming with you, please get in touch before booking and I will do my best to advise or explore alternative options such as a groundfloor fitting space.

Question 9

Can you customise my dress (add sleeves, straps, or change the neckline)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As a bespoke dressmaker, I can create additional elements or custom details such as sleeves, straps, or neckline adjustments.
If you have something specific in mind, please email me ahead of your appointment and we can explore the options together during your fitting.

Question 10

Can you make or customise a veil?

Accepted Answer

Yes and yes.
I design and make bespoke veils and can also customise existing veils, including embroidery or additional details. Please get in touch to discuss your ideas and pricing.

Question 11

Do you charge extra for steaming my dress?

Accepted Answer

No. Steaming your dress and packing it into your dress bag ready for your wedding day is included as part of my alteration service.
For certain fabrics, I do recommend having a steamer available on the day, as light creasing can occur during transport.

Question 12

I am planning to lose weight (or have lost weight) since buying my dress – is that okay?

Accepted Answer

This is very common and usually not an issue.
Once alterations begin, it is best if your size remains relatively stable. Significant changes after work has started may require additional alterations and can incur extra costs.
If your dress is slightly loose at the initial consultation (around one dress size), this is completely normal and can be adjusted as part of the standard bridal alteration process.
Larger size reductions are often possible, but depending on the style and construction of the wedding dress, may involve more extensive reconstruction. Please get in touch with details and I can advise on what is possible.

Question 13

My dress feels too small – can it be altered?

Accepted Answer

In some cases, yes. This depends entirely on how much it needs letting out, along with the style of the dress, fabric, and construction.
Please get in touch with details about your dress and your wedding date, and I can advise whether alterations are possible and what options may be available.

Question 14

I have a second dress – can you alter this too?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I am happy to alter second dresses, evening looks, or party dresses alongside your main wedding dress, subject to availability.
Please mention this when enquiring so enough time can be allocated within your alteration schedule.

Question 15

What happens if I need extra fittings or need to reschedule a fitting?

Accepted Answer

Typically, 2–3 fittings are included within the cost of your alterations.

If additional fittings are required due to factors such as changes in measurements (including weight change or pregnancy), or if essential items such as shoes, underwear, or the dress itself are not brought to an appointment, extra fittings will be charged at £50 per fitting.

If you need to reschedule an appointment, please give as much notice as possible so availability can be managed fairly for all clients. If less than 48 hours notice is given, there may be a £50 rescheduling fee.

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