FAQ
What happens at each fitting?
At your first fitting, we will discuss the fit of the dress and the alterations you want done. I will pin your gown and, if applicable, measure you for any semi custom projects you need. You will receive a written estimate, and I do not charge a deposit; nothing is due until you take your gown home with you.
At your second fitting, we will see the adjustments that have been made to your gown, and further tailor your dress, if necessary. Because some projects require that beading, lace, or other detail is removed or adjusted to allow me to work on your gown, these details will remain unfinished until we are certain the fit is proper; this saves me time in tailoring, saves you money in alterations, and allows for a perfect fit for your final fitting.
At your third fitting, your dress will be ready to take home with you*. Beading, lace, and other details are finished, and the gown fits the way it will on your wedding (or portrait) day.
*In some cases, a fourth fitting is necessary. I find this to be the case for one of three reasons:
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You need me to add sleeves or decorative straps (and the first fitting becomes a sort of 'consultation' for that particular alteration),
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You are having your veil, jacket, sash, belt, or other accessory made by me, or
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You are needing a reconstruct or semi-custom alteration.
In any case, we would know at the first fitting if a fourth fitting is necessary, and would schedule that fitting accordingly.
How soon may I schedule a fitting with you?
I book up quite far in advance--typically 3-4 months out for first fittings. Even if you do not wish to begin your fittings right away, it is wise to get on the calendar now for fittings in the future, based on target weight goals, ordered dress arrival dates, etc. My online scheduling program allows for fittings to be scheduled up to one year in advance, so, if desired, fittings could be scheduled for one year from today.
What types of payment do you accept?
I accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, AMEX, PayPal, QuickPay, cash, or check. I do not have a preference for your form of payment; whatever works best for you is fine with me.
When should I begin my fittings?
I find that brides prefer one of two things: either they want to schedule fittings early to get things started right away, or they want to wait until closer to the wedding (or portrait) date to allow for weight loss or fitness program results, or simply due to work or school schedules. Either way is fine with me, as long as fittings are scheduled far enough in advance that it allows me time to work on your gown. More information on this is available on the "Book a Fitting" page.
Generally speaking, you can expect the fittings to span the course of about 10 to 18 weeks, from first fitting to final fitting. This is, of course, subject to fitting availability; since I book up rather quickly & often quite far in advance, it may be necessary to wait some time for your first fitting.
When should I schedule my fittings?
Please allow at least three (3) weeks between each fitting. Some brides prefer to meet every month, some every few months. More information is on my "Book a Fitting" page. (Note: I do book up rather quickly & quite far in advance, so it is sometimes not possible to accommodate brides with very short timelines). If you want to wait until the latest practical time to begin fittings and are unsure how to plan for that, it is good to know that I prefer final fittings to occur no sooner than three (3) weeks prior to your first wear date .
For those who want to wait as long as possible to begin fittings, please schedule your fittings accordingly: your third fitting should be three (3) weeks prior to your first wear date, your second fitting three (3) weeks prior to that, and your first fitting three (3) weeks prior to that, as well.
You should be at your target weight or shape at your second wedding gown fitting. After this point, your original estimate may not be honored; changes to your body that effect the fit of your dress after are subject to additional charges. Exceptions will be made for those with medical considerations--if this applies to you, please contact me via email or phone to discuss your specific needs, and we will certainly make a plan!
Do you charge for fittings?
No. Fittings and consultations are complimentary.
Do you have a wait list?
Yes! I keep a list of scheduled clients' preferred fitting days & times on hand, and if something opens up, I will contact clients based first on wear date, then on availability. If you have scheduled your fittings with me already but wish to be considered for a sooner first fitting day or time, please email me with your preferred day & time for fittings and you will be contacted if something opens up.
Where are you located?
I have a studio and fitting room in my home in Old Town Katy, TX, in the heart of the Historic District. My address, directions, and a list of things to bring to fittings is sent via email to clients that schedule fittings.