The dress has been picked, meaning that the hard work is done, right? Unfortunately, saying yes to the dress is the first step in a long process of fitting and alterations. Like all steps in the wedding planning operation, though, a little preparation and research can make a bride’s alterations go smoothly, and can only make the dress look as good as the day you fell in love with it.
Have You Made Room in Your Budget for Alterations?
A common misconception is that the purchase of a wedding gown also includes the price of alterations for said gown. Additionally, showroom dresses are almost never one size fits all, making multiple fittings a crucial step in guaranteeing that the attire looks just right. Many fittings can add up in cost, making it important for any bride to already factor these in her budget.
Bring Your Shoes Along
Planning on wearing those gorgeous heels under your gown or even a pair of sneakers? Whatever your choice of footwear may be, it is key to wear those exact shoes to any fittings you may have. Doing this will guarantee that you are not stepping all over your dress or that it is not hemmed too high.
What Will Your Wedding Weight Be?
Most brides anticipate losing weight before their big day. Because of this, it is difficult for both her and the fitter to envision what the final product will look like on a transformed figure. In order to keep everyone on the same page, set a goal and schedule multiple appointments to keep up with the weight loss. The same goes for any weight gain. This will also help plan how many fittings will even be necessary before the final fitting.
Need More Detail?
Your dress could be a dream come true without completely satisfying all of your tastes. For example, you could love the cut, but long for more beads, jewels, or lace. Aside from guaranteeing the right fit, alterations are the only time a bride can completely change her gown by adding more to it, including straps and buttons. Of course, the more you want will reflect in the overall price and will tack on time to the process as well.
Budget for Time
All too often, brides push the envelope and do not search for a dress until months before the wedding. While this is without issue at times, any major necessary alterations pose a threat to not being completed before the wedding day arrives. Just like you would budget your finances, plan for time when it comes to dress fittings.
Travel with Your Accessories
Just like you should bring your shoes along with you, it is crucial to also wear the undergarments you will be sporting on the day of the wedding. This will avoid any bunching or bulging. Bringing your vale can also help create a vision for your fitter, and ensure that the dress will not compete with it and vice versa. Necklaces, garters, and stockings are all considerable accessories, too.