This is a great question, that there isn't really a "set" answer to.
The cost of alterations can vary depending on the work needed and the complexity of the garment. Setting aside $1200-$1600 is a good estimate to cover necessary adjustments to get a gorgeous custom fit for your body. An estimate will be provided after the in-person consultation/first fitting when the gown is pinned, construction thoroughly examined, and details such as lace, beading, and delicate fabrics can be analyzed to determine the potential hours needed to complete the work. Most gown's require 3 fittings and 15-20 total hours of alteration time.
It's never too early to book your alterations appointment, but it can be too early to start. If you are looking to book your alterations for peak wedding season (May to September), we recommend scheduling 8 months in advanced at minimum, as we close our bookings as soon as we hit capacity. For the off- season (October to April), booking 5 months in advanced should be sufficient. Keep these timelines in mind to secure your spot!
Once you have been booked in and your spot is secured, typically we will have your first fitting scheduled for 3-4 months before your wedding date; 5 months for customizations or custom pieces like detailed veils and overskirts. You can expect your alterations to be completed at your final fitting around 3 weeks before your wedding date.
A rush fee would be discussed if you are needing a quicker turn around time than is typical for the seamstress.
Rush fees are between $100-$300 depending on the scope of work and the season in which it is being altered.
What is considered a rush?
Turn around time under 12 weeks during peak season. Turn around time under 8 weeks during non- peak season.
First of all- YAY! We love working on second hand items, and knowing that the dress is getting more love. Secondly there are a couple things that go along with having a pre loved dress.
Cleaning - If the gown hasn't been cleaned yet, please do this before your alterations appointment. We offer handwashing as a service and would be happy to clean your gown before we set an alterations appointment. Or if you prefer you can take it to a dry cleaners. Keep in mind the processes used in dry cleaning can sometimes cause small changes in the fabric fit (shrinkage of stretch lace etc) that during alterations can be addressed. This way you won't be taking a freshly altered, perfectly fitted gown to the cleaners and come back home with a shrunken hem!
Repairs- Pre-loved gowns often have little pieces of history to them that you may want changed for your day like: zippers, missing beads, small holes etc. While we can absolutely replace a broken zipper or mend small holes and add spaghetti straps for example, there are some things that may be more difficult. If you require a lace, beading or button match - while it is possible we may just have something close in our stash we ask that if not, you come prepared to do your own searching and supply the fabric needed to make that perfect match.
Keeping in mind that there are always some limitations depending on the gown itself- there are so many things that can be done!
Anything from creating custom overskirts, sleeves, straps, neckline revisions, extreme hemline changes- the list goes on!
If you have an idea for a gown you would like us to bring to life please be sure to subject your email with: "Customizations" and include photos of your gown and inspirations so that we can better plan for your initial fitting, and timeline for your alterations.
Absolutely! We love helping you bring your dream dress to life through design. The process requires about a year, so we request that you inquire at least a year before your date.
When you inquire please specify in your email subject line: "Custom Gown", along with your inspiration photos, screenshots, doodles etc.
In your first consultation appointment we will discuss design, fit, fabric and measurements if you decide to go forward with a custom gown.
We will begin with "fitting" appointments after the mockup is constructed, and then move on to the final fabrics once the fit is perfected.
Custom cocktail starts at $2000 (includes fabric budget)
Custom bridal starts at $5000 (includes fabric budget)
A booking fee is a deposit paid by the client to secure the services of the initial appointment with the seamstress. It is a non refundable fee, that is taken out of the cost of your alterations once they have been completed. This system has been implemented to ensure commitment from clients and to cover any potential losses incurred if clients cancel or fail to show up to appointments. It helps streamline scheduling and protects the seamstresses time and resources.
$125 due upon booking.
Cancellation Policy:
We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to the need to cancel or reschedule appointments. As a small women owned business, we strive to provide exceptional service and accommodate our clients to the best of our ability. However, to ensure the smooth operation of our business and to respect the time of both our clients and our staff, we have implemented the following cancellation policy:
1. **Cancellation Notice**: We kindly request that any cancellations or rescheduling requests be made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled appointment time. This allows us to adjust our schedule accordingly and offer the appointment slot to another client in need of our services.
2. **No Show Fee**: In the event that a client fails to show up for their appointment without any prior notice or attempt to contact us before the appointment time, a no show fee of $50 will be charged. This fee compensates for the time reserved for the appointment and the inconvenience caused by the absence.
3. **Late Arrival**: We understand that unforeseen delays may occur. However, please note that arriving late to your scheduled appointment may result in a shortened appointment time or the need to reschedule, depending on our availability for the day.
4. **Contacting Us**: If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please contact us as soon as possible. You can reach us by Instagram or email adriannehill.desig.gmail.com
5. **Exceptions**: We understand that emergencies and exceptional circumstances may arise, and we will do our best to accommodate such situations with empathy and flexibility. Please communicate with us directly if you encounter any difficulties meeting our cancellation policy requirements.
By scheduling an appointment with us, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to abide by our cancellation policy. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in helping us maintain the efficiency and quality of our services. If you have any questions or concerns regarding our policy, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Yes!
You can feel confident in knowing you can go through all the stained areas of your gown with us personally, and that we will have it marked down specifically to go over at wash time. Handwashing includes any small previously discussed repairs and steaming. $300 plus tax
Handwashing and Preservation includes everything you receive in the handwashing as well as the dress being packaged with care into a preservation box with acid free tissue paper to prevent yellowing and deterioration of the fabric and embellishments, and a viewing window so that you may look at it for years to come. $425 plus tax