Frequently asked questions.
How long does it take to make a wedding dress?
This is one of my most asked questions and really there is no definitive answer, each dress or outfit is as unique as the person it’s made for so it really does depend on what design you choose. I like to be able to work on an outfit from a minimum of 6-8 months before your wedding date, however I understand the importance of flexibility and am able to accommodate much shorter lead times if required and I have available space, so please do get in touch if you’d like to discuss these further.
How much does a wedding dress cost?
I offer a full collection of bridal wear, dresses and separates that can be viewed and tried on at my showroom by appointment. These are all be made to measure for each individual client. Prices for pieces in the collection start at £500 up to £3500 with most outfits working out between £1800-£3000.
Can I make changes to a style in the collection?
Yes, all pieces are made-to-order and so if you wanted to make any changes to a collection piece these can happily be accommodated. For example if you’d like a different sleeve style or length, different neckline or wish to change the fabric or colour of a garment these can all be changed to your requirements. Changes can be discussed at your initial consultation, and you can even choose to mix and match styles, if you like the top of one dress and the skirt of another, to create your own unique style. Changes to styles are unlimited, if extra fabric and pattern cutting is required for any changes then these will be charged accordingly.
How much does the bespoke experience cost?
The full bespoke experience starts from £3000 and is dependant upon final design, fabrics and finished chosen. I always quote prices with your initial designs to give you a good idea of what sort of price you will be looking at. The bespoke process is a truly special and unique experience leaving you with long lasting memories of the creation of your one-of-a-kind wedding outfit.
What happens at an initial appointment?
All appointments are held at my Matlock based boutique and working studio. I hold each appointment personally and an initial consultation usually lasts around an hour and a half. You have exclusive use of the shop and you are welcome to bring friends and family along, I can accommodate you plus 2 guests of your choosing. There is plenty of time to look through my collection of dresses and separates, try on as many as you like and it gives me a chance to get to know you and learn about your ideas in a beautiful calm and relaxed environment.
What sizes are your sample dresses?
The majority of samples in my showroom range from a UK 10-14. The samples rarely fit anyone perfectly so please don’t worry if they aren’t your size, I have a lot of tricks to help you get a good idea of the style on you; dresses can be pinned and buttons left unfastened if too big or too small and panels pinned in to help you visualise the dress on. And please remember that every item is made to order and so I can accommodate any and every body shape and size as the dress is made for you.
What should I wear to my first appointment?
Nude seamless underwear is usually best for being able to try on dresses and separates. Please feel free to bring any shoes with you that are of a similar height to your wedding shoe. Don’t worry if you don’t have them at your initial appointment or aren’t sure what you want, I have some pairs available to try at the showroom whilst trying on outfits.
Is there parking nearby?
You will find free on street parking around the shop as well as a number of pay and display car parks in Matlock only a few minutes walk from the shop. I am situated just by Hall Keys park which is lovely for a trip after or before your appointment.
Do you make wedding accessories?
I offer a collection of veils and hair accessories alongside my dresses and separates. These are all made-to-order for each client and can be personalised to create a beautiful heirloom piece to help remember your special day. I also offer bespoke veils and accessories designed to compliment your outfit perfectly.
Do you offer alterations?
I don’t offer alterations. All of my dresses are made to measure so there will be no need for any alterations. I ensure I am able to give my full attention to my clients and so leave alterations to the professionals who have the experience and time to concentrate on them.
How many fittings will I need?
Once a design has been commissioned and your 50% deposit paid I will get you in for your initial measurements. From these I create an initial toile; a mock up of your chosen design in a cheaper fabric of similar quality to your chosen fabric, this will enable me to get a perfect fir on you and at this stage design elements can still be changed and adapted (which is much easier to do once you see the shapes in real life). After your toile fitting I would require a minimum of two further fittings; once in your final fabric but without finishes and fastenings and once in your finished dress.
I would like to lose weight before the wedding, will this affect the creation of my dress?
Please let me know if you are planning on loosing weight as I will do my best to accommodate making your dress over a shorter time period and taking your measurements at a later stage than usual. After your final fitting if any further amendments are required to the fit then you will be charged for the alterations accordingly.
When will my dress be finished?
Finished outfits will be ready for collection two weeks before your wedding date. Please advise if you’d like to collect earlier than this so I can be sure to accommodate this.
Do you offer dressing on the day?
Yes I can offer an on the day dressing service where I will come to your wedding venue, steam your dress and get you in it. This helps to remove any extra on the day stress ensuring your dress is looking as beautiful as you on your wedding day. This service starts from £50 dependant on date and location, please get in touch if you would like a quote for this service.
For the bespoke service do I need to have a design in mind?
Absolutely not! I love spending time getting to know my clients and hearing all about your wedding, style, personality and you can trust me and my extensive years of experience in the fashion and bridal world to create some beautiful designs completely unique to you. Anything is possible.