Rarely is it ever…

Just, Only, a Smidge, Easy, Simple, Quick or A Little.

These are all words used to describe areas and alterations to be done on bridal or formal gowns. Innocent enough, however, those words can cause anxiety, confusion and uncomfortable conversations.

“I JUST need a hem” …

So many factors are considered for each individual dress. A few of those factors include: fabric type, hem type, hem embellishment, construction of the gown and more. It takes just as much time to measure out and cut a ½” hem as a 3”. That beautiful sheer fabric is going to take much longer to adjust than other fabric types. Did you know all those appliques are sewn on with tiny clear stitches and one wrong move could cause a catastrophe? Please don't forget about those individually sewn beads, stones and sequins.

“It ONLY needs” …

Need side adjustments? Cups too big/small? Waist just a bit high/low? No biggie right? How about the structure and support built into your dress. We need to remove that before we can get to your seams. a lot of gowns no longer leave any room to take the dress out so we will need to find matching materials and insert a design choice that accentuates your gown and your figure. But don’t worry, it JUST needs to be taken out A LITTLE.

“I got my dress on clearance for a steal at only $100! It is ONLY a SMIDGE too big” …

To take this gown in I can’t just pinch and sew. I’ll need to deconstruct your entire gown and cut the pieces to the proper sizes before stitching it back together. I’ll also do it, so it looks like your gown was never touched.

Don’t get me wrong. We love our job! We love the skills and time it takes to make your dress perfect and see your smile as your dress truly becomes yours. After your dress is altered to your body it is truly now a one of a kind. However, it is rarely ever: quick, easy, only or just.