We’re so honored to have a guest blog from a local expert in wedding dress alterations! Here Suzanne walks us through some common questions about wedding dress alterations.
Average cost of alterations
One of the most common questions we get is around the cost of alterations. And we totally get it, the cost of weddings adds up and you want to make sure you’re budgeting enough for your alterations. Every wedding gown and every body is different so it’s hard to give an estimate without scheduling a fitting. Which is why, at Suzanne’s Sewing Service, your first fitting is always complimentary. Suzanne will meet with you personally and she’ll walk you through what alterations are needed and what the cost will be.
Typically, alterations on a wedding gown range between $300-$600 *design changes and customizations. These include modest buildups, adding sleeves, custom beadwork and cost of materials are additional.
Some things that may add cost to your alterations:
· Major body change
· Major dress customization – add sleeves, change neckline, temple build up
· Lots of detail on the hem
· Lots of intricate beadwork around bodice
· Mesh necklines that need lots of size adjustments
· Very short timeframe for alterations
Why they cost what they do
At Suzanne’s Sewing Service you get the expert! Suzanne has been sewing for over forty years. And there’s literally no alteration that she can’t handle. You are first and foremost getting her expertise. Our customers become like family to us. They rave about our services. Read some of our reviews by clicking here.
Your price includes all three fittings. We do a first fitting where we pin everything and walk you through what alterations need to be done. At the second fitting, everything will be “pin basted” or prepped. After this fitting, Suzanne will sew everything into place if there are no more adjustments that need to happen. At your final fitting your dress should be done. We’ll take the time to show your MOH or Mom how to do you up in your gown properly and how to do your bustle.
So many of the aspects of bridal alterations are done by hand. Sewing on the beading, cutting the hem and creating a perfect bustle so you can dance the night away. There’s really no way to automate or speed up the process.
Things to keep in mind
Order fabric from the store
– Sometimes brides come to us thinking we’ll have access to fabric or that they can find matching lace at the fabric store and then we’re in a bind to order matching fabric on a rush. If you need lace to add straps or sleeves, order it from the store when you purchase your gown. Something important to keep in mind is that ordering fabrics and laces from the store you purchased your dress from can sometimes take as long as ordering the dress itself so it should be done at the gown’s purchase. Suzanne does have an extensive collection of fabrics and laces and access to them from alternative sources but they are subject to an additional charge as well.
Schedule your first fitting at least 12 weeks before your wedding
– We suggest coming at least 12 weeks before your big day, but if you already have your gown in hand then book your first fitting in. The fall months tend to be our busiest months, so our schedule may fill up.
Have your shoes and any undergarments you are wearing under your gown before your first fitting
– You will need to bring these to each and every fitting for the best and proper fit.
– Suzanne’s Sewing Service does sell three different types of bra cups and bustiers in the store. So if you’re having trouble finding the right undergarments, we can help in your first fitting.
How To Contact Us. You can visit us online at www.suzannessewingservice.com. Follow us on FB + IG. You can book in your first fitting online or by texting us at 480.605.4768.
