What You Need to Know About Alterations
Congrats, you found the dress! So what’s the next step?
Planning for alterations!
Here at TMB, we leave alterations up to the experts, so we can focus on creating the best bridal shopping experience for brides like you! We want you looking and feeling your best on your big day, so we put together a list of our recommended seamstresses and FAQs to answer the most common alterations questions!
1. When should I start booking alterations?
We recommend contacting the seamstress of your choice as soon as you say “yes” and order your dress.
2. How many appointments do I need to book?
On average, you will have 2-4 alterations appointments, although in some cases more appointments are required to ensure a proper fit.
3. How much do alterations cost?
This is probably the most frequently asked question on the subject. The cost of alterations is dependent on your seamstress of choice, the work that needs to be done, the fabrics of the dress and any special customizations. Generally, brides should budget between $800-$1500 for alterations.
4. What do I need to bring to my alterations appointment?
Bring your shoes and any special undergarments you are planning on wearing on the wedding day! Shoes ensure the hem and bustle are done properly, and undergarments will help the seamstress to get the dress to fit you like a glove! If your seamstress is creating a bustle for your dress, it can also be a good idea to bring along a bridesmaid or family member who will be helping you bustle your dress on your wedding day. This way the seamstress can teach them the proper way to do it, so it will be easy when it’s time for the reception!
5. What are some questions I should ask my seamstress?
Will you steam my gown?
How long have you been altering wedding gowns?
Do you have photos of past bridal alterations that you have worked on?
6. Do I even need alterations?
The answer is always YES! It’s a big day, and you want to make sure that your wedding dress fits you like a glove. Whether it be a hemline that needs to be trimmed, straps that need shortening, or the bodice of the dress needs to be taken in, there is always something that can be adjusted. Taking your dress into alterations ensures you’ll look and feel amazing, and won’t have to worry about any wardrobe mishaps on your wedding day.
7. What does the process look like?
In your first appointment your seamstress will pin your gown to address proper fit and the bustle and hem. Most seamstresses will provide you with a quote and you will pay once the alterations are complete. You will need your shoes for every appointment including this one. If you don’t have your shoes yet then a shoe that is the same heel height will work.
Your second alterations will typically have the finished product unless other customizations were made. If everything fits then you can book your pickup or take your gown with you that day. Sometimes further adjustments need to be made and therefore a third appointment would be required.
If you are uncomfortable with the fit, don’t fret! Speak up during your alterations appointment. Let your seamstress know any concerns or changes DURING the pinning process! Make sure to have that conversation with your seamstress early on as it is harder to alter some areas later in the process.
Alterations are a process, not a science. Some gowns require more appointments than others but in the end it will fit like a glove!
Where do I find a seamstress??
We’ve put together a list of seamstresses that we know and trust, who have worked with our dresses many times before. If you aren’t close in proximity to any of these, we always encourage our brides to do their own research to find a seamstress they love!
TIP: Call around to any bridal salons local to you, to see if they have any recommendations!
Bree McQueen Alterations:
Located in Innerkip
hello@breemcqueen.com
breemcqueen.com
Kym's Alterations:
Located in Waterdown
289-707-0111
KymFit@gmail.com
www.KymFit.com
Tanis Emmett Bridal Atelier and Alterations Boutique:
Located in Stouffville
905-604-7477
weddingstyle@tanisemmett.com
www.tanisemmett.com
Third Floor Tailors: Lilit
Located in Toronto
647-977-8336
hello@3rdfloortailors.com
www.3rdfloortailors.com
London Alteration House: Nazir
Located in London
519-902-9984
london.a.house@gmail.com
*Male Tailor
Deanna Fokes Alterations
Located in Oakville 905-827-4642
https://deannafokes.ca/