top of page

FAQs

Answers You Need

HOW LONG DOES YOUR ALTERATION SERVICE TAKE?

Most alterations generally take 6 weeks to be completed, depending on your wedding date. That said, complex customizations that involve pattern making, and extensive vintage-gown remakes, can take up to 4 to 6 months.

If you need your dress sooner, we can sometimes accommodate a rush alteration. If we are able to, a rush fee may be added to the price of alterations. This fee will be determined based on time-frames and level of difficulty. 

DO I NEED TO SCHEDULE AN ALTERATIONS CONSULTATION?

Alterations consultations are not necessary for most brides. Generally, a consultation is needed for expecting brides, or if a bride is planning extensive customizations. Also, if a bride would like to have a more accurate estimate before the fitting, she can schedule this consultation. There is a $50 charge for this appointment. 

WHICH PAYMENT METHODS DO YOU ACCEPT?

Cash, check, as well as all major credit cards, are accepted. Please note that if you choose to pay by credit card there will be a surcharge. Payment for alterations is due on the day of your first fitting.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO MY APPOINTMENT?

In order to fit you accurately, anything you plan to wear on the day of your wedding, should also be worn during your fitting. This includes... your bra, slip, and shoes, as well as any shape-wear you plan to wear. Alterations will be guaranteed to fit based on your measurements and undergarments /shoes, etc., worn on the day of pinning. Payment is also due at your first appointment.

DO I NEED TO WEAR A BRA?

If you would like to opt out of wearing a bra, that is perfectly fine. The decision needs to be made prior to pinning. We can discuss this at the time of fitting. If you would like, bra cups can also be sewn into your dress, as an option.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I'M WORKING OUT OR TRYING TO LOSE WEIGHT?

If you are trying to lose weight, or tone up, before your wedding, it is best to schedule your alterations as close to your wedding day as possible. Alterations are guaranteed to your body shape/measurements on the day of pinning. If your body changes drastically your dress will need to be altered again. Depending on the extent of the changes, there may be additional charges to further alter the dress.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR A CUSTOM DRESS TO BE MADE?

Having your wedding dress custom made is a long process. You should plan on starting the process at least one year prior to the wedding. Exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis. If you are not sure if there's enough time, please do not hesitate to reach out, to see if accommodations can be made.

HOW MUCH DOES A CUSTOM DESIGNED DRESS COST?

Short answer— bespoke gowns typically start around $6,000. Long answer—The price of a custom-designed dress can vary greatly depending on the design, as well as fabric choice. In order to give you a better idea of the cost, we recommend giving us a call, or make an appointment for a free consultation. After the initial consultation, if you choose to go forward with the process, there is an upfront, non-refundable, design fee due, in order for sketching to begin. This fee is $600. This amount will go towards the final cost of the gown. Once a design is agreed upon, a 50% deposit is due, in order for work on your dress to begin. The remainder is due after your sample is approved. If you would like, a payment plan can also be worked out to help offset the cost.  

CANCELLATION & RESCHEDULING POLICY

Due to high demand and a limited number of appointment slots, each appointment time is reserved specifically for you. To avoid a cancellation fee, appointments must be canceled or rescheduled at least 14 days prior to the scheduled appointment.

Appointments canceled or rescheduled with less than 14 days’ notice, as well as missed appointments without notice, will incur a $100 cancellation fee. With limited availability and a waitlist of brides eager to reserve these times, appointments canceled on short notice are often unable to be filled.

We understand that plans can change, and each appointment may be rescheduled once with at least 14 days’ notice without penalty. However, appointments that have been rescheduled more than once and are ultimately canceled will be subject to the $100 cancellation fee, regardless of when the final cancellation occurs.

In the event of a discrepancy regarding when a cancellation was submitted, proof of the cancellation request will be required in order to waive the cancellation fee.

Text us at

440 488 0641

  • Instagram

©2026 by Sarah Lottes Bridal

bottom of page