Alterations to gown

Go to both and get a cost comparison. I'm going with a local seamstress in NC.

I agree with PP above, ask for quotes at multiple places. Look at yelp for reviews. I was debating doing mine at the bridal shop but found a private seamstress on Yelp that has amazing reviews where people say she works wonders on wedding dresses and isn’t expensive.

What the others said. My alterations cost an arm and a leg from David's Bridal - if I could go back, I would check local seamstresses first. It's probably cheaper and better quality.

Alterations prices are normally different dependent on the seamstress, so you can check multiple different places!

I have yet to get a quote for alterations but, thus far, I am planning on using a local seamstress I have used before. I have seen bridal gowns in her shop for alterations everytime I have visited and feel confident that she is experienced in the more delicate work needed for lace, beading, etc.


My advice is to not only get a quote from multiple seamstresses like PP's above reccomend but also to ask them how often they alter wedding dresses.

When I bought my dress I asked about cost of alterations. They told me an average cost but it depends on if they order correct size, fabrics, lace, tulle, that add it up. My first fitting to expand dress and add built in cups and move straps cost me $134 with tax. I haven’t been able to get bustle yet or hemmed (it has to fit right first) to know how much more. My skirt has straight hem of all tulle and no appliqués so it shouldn’t be much.

If your from nj, seng couture offers free basic alterations with a purchase of their gowns

I want to laugh “Ha ha ha.... no.” Only because I’ve never heard of free alterations. It’s a big money-maker for shops that offer it. Yup, I already expected $500+ before I went dress shopping so I factored it in. Still a shock as I’ve never bought ANY outfit, shoes, handbag or jewelry that cost that much.

Everywhere I know alterations are expensive. I was considering having them done by a seamstress, but I must say it has been SO easy having them done at the boutique I got the dress at, so I don’t regret it at all. My dress is insured as long as it stays in their possession and they have access to materials specific to my dress because all they do is wedding dresses (which also makes me less worried they were going to screw up the dress).