When should I schedule my first fitting?

Bridal alterations typically take 6-12 weeks or more. Suits, bridesmaids, moms and party dresses take 2 fittings in 2-4 weeks.

What do I need to bring to my fitting consultation?

You just need to bring your wedding dress or suit and a pair of shoes with the heel height you plan to wear. We have everything else you need, including shapewear, corsets, and even sticky cups you can try with your look. If you have special undies or accessories to try with your dress, feel free to bring those as well. We ask that you have your wedding shoes by your 2nd fitting.

How many fittings do you typically do?

Most wedding dress alterations require 3 fittings. For restyling, we may have as many as 6. We do the final fitting a week before the wedding to allow time for final tweaks. Suits, jumpsuits, and LWDs often only need 2 fittings.

How long does a dress fitting take?

Most consultations take an hour. Subsequent fittings take 30-60 minutes.

How long does the typical alteration process take?

Bridal alterations typically take 6-12 weeks, though with so many couples eloping we have a lot of 2-week turnarounds. Our rush service is 3 fittings in 4 days. In a pinch, we can do alterations overnight.

My wedding is coming up quickly. Do you offer rush alterations?

We are happy to accommodate rush alterations. WE do charge a rush fee for wedding gown alteations May through October for any alterations needed in less that 4 weeks. That rush fee starts at 30% for 3 weeks, 40% for 2 weeks, 50% for one week. Our fastest rush service is 2-3 fittings in 4 days. That services starts at $1200.

Can you alter a sample gown that is too big for me? Or a little tight?

We can make most gowns up to 10 sizes bigger or smaller. If you are shopping feel free to test us a pic from your shopping appointment and we can let you know what is possible.

I want to wear heels for my wedding then switch to flats. Can you hem my dress for both shoes?

Hems only work if we hem to the higher heel. A difference of an inch won't affect the hem. If you wear 3-5” heels we recommend changing to a wedge sneaker or platform shoes for dancing, We can often make your bustle adjustable to 2 heights.

How much do wedding dress alterations cost?

Most salons that offer alterations charge a flat rate for taking in the sides, hemming and creating a bustle. In Baltimore a standard flat rate is $800, in and NYC it’s around $995. At The Wedding Dresser, we itemize and charge only by the amount of work needed.

Do you charge for styling appointments?

You are always welcome to come into the studio to try on accessories with your dress. If you are not doing alterations, you are welcome to bring your dream dress and get advice from our stylists.

How do you accept payment?

For alterations, we charge a 50% deposit and 50% upon delivery. We accept payment by cash, check or credit card including Amex. Bespoke separates and restyling must be paid in full when ordering.

What is your accessories return policy?

We accept returns of jewelry, headpieces and accessories in exchange for credit. Bespoke pieces are non refundable.

Can I bring guests to my fittings?

Due to COVID-19 we ask that you limit yourself to one guest. We are happy to have your bridal team join us through Zoom or Facetime. Let us know in advance so we can set up a meeting. If you have a large bridal party and would like to do fittings together we can arrange a private appointment.

How are you keeping staff and clients safe during COVID-19?

We have a large, well-ventilated studio with high ceilings and will be keeping windows open and fans running. We ask that you and your guests wear face masks.

What happens if my plans change and I need to cancel my alterations?

Most alterations we pin are in hands within a week of your fitting. We would only charge for the alterations work done. We can not refund payment for alterations that are complete.

What happens if I have to cancel my wedding?

If you cancel your wedding we will work with you to make the unfortunate circumstance as painless as possible, helping you to store, resell or donate your gown.

Do you charge for consultations?

Due to COVID-19 we usually start with a free virtual consultation for alterations, restyling, and vintage. In-person consultations will be $35 beginning January 1, 2020. You can book your virtual or in-person consultation on our website.