HOW TO BE PREPARED FOR YOUR FIRST WEDDING OUTFIT ALTERATIONS APPOINTMENT

Helpful tips from two bridal seamstresses.

We asked the lovelies from Juno Bridal, Jess & Cloudy, for some top tips when it comes to your epic alternative wedding dress or outfit. As two seamstresses who have a variety of experience, we thought they'd know best! Check out their top tips on preparing for your alterations appointment.

Photo by Alt Wedding Co

It can be really confusing going through the wedding alterations process because it’s something most people have never done before! My first piece of advice is if you know you want any design changes, like adding sleeves or a bespoke veil, it's best to have a couple of inspirational images ready to go. I’d advise sending these to your seamstress in advance, just so there’s plenty of time to source any fabrics or trims needed. 

It’s important to be open to your seamstress's advice, if we advise that something won’t work, it’s not to dampen your spirits! We just don’t perform alterations that we know from experience won’t work - we want the best possible outcome for every customer, and we won’t compromise this by botching an alteration.  For example, a lot of people want to remove a deep V illusion completely, but doing that can distort the bust line and you may end up with the illusion of one giant boob and no one wants that for their wedding day.  We’re full of creative ideas and alternatives to give you the look you want without compromising the integrity of your outfit.

Photo by Haydn Brown Photography

You need to bring; wedding shoes, a well fitting bra, a stick-on bra or binder (if you’re wearing one), seamless knickers, and of course, your wedding outfit. If you’re wearing any shapewear or padding, you need to bring that to the first fitting too. If you’re not sure what to bring, don’t be afraid to ask!

If you’re feeling anxious or indecisive about the fitting process, you’re welcome to bring someone you’re comfortable with for moral support. At Juno, we also offer “quiet appointments”, aiming to reduce overwhelm for those who need it. 

Photo by Alt Wedding Co

I’ve saved the most important for last, and that’s to speak your mind. 

You need to be really honest with your seamstress about how you feel in your outfit, we don’t know how you’re feeling until you tell us, is it feeling too tight? Too long? There’s no rule that states you have to be cinched in super tight on your wedding day, it’s all about how you want to feel, we’re big believers that comfort comes first; because nothing is more important than you enjoying your wedding day!

Please see our alterations guide here for more information about the process.

Photo by Alt Wedding Co

Head to Juno's listing here to find out all about their amazing alternative wedding outfits! Or head to our Alt Wedding Directory to find more alternative wedding suppliers.