Gown Alterations and Emergency Repair

Few of us are a perfect size, especially the way wedding gowns are sized. Almost all wedding dresses have to be altered, to ensure that they fit perfectly. Here are some things to keep in mind as you enter this phase of the process:

• Alteration charges are not usually included in the cost of the gown. Ask your bridal shop salesperson how much it will cost for the alterations you have in mind.

• Expect the alterations to require several fittings.

• Do not have the gown altered several months in advance of the wedding. If your weight fluctuates during the final weeks of planning, the gown might not fit perfectly.

• Allow four to six weeks for alterations to be completed.

• Have your mother or maid of honor accompany you to the first and final fitting.

• Be sure the material hangs correctly from your body and is the right color, the dress dimensions are correct, the waist is not too high or too low, and there is no pulling around the bust. If something is not just right, do not hesitate to speak up.

• At the second fitting, be even more particular. The material should lay smoothly and the dress should be comfortable. A full-length gown should barely touch shoe toe tops.

• If there are any problems with the way your gown fits, continue to schedule fittings until you are completely satisfied.

Emergencies during the wedding

Remember the Boy Scout motto: BE PREPARED? Write it in lipstick on your mirror. The only thing worse than having a mishap is having no way to fix it.

For unexpected spills, resist the temptation to rub out the spot, and just leave it alone until you can take it to a high-quality cleaning establishment.
If you absolutely can’t wait, and the stain is water soluble, gently apply water or club soda. Don’t rub. If you do use spot remover, be aware that it may also remove color and leave a noticeable white spot.
If your dress is silk or rayon, don’t try to remove the stain; rather, hide it with a white powder such as baking soda or baby powder.
For things that tear (your dress), break (a bra strap or a stay), or get stuck (a zipper), stock your emergency kit with scotch or adhesive tape, safety pins, a small sewing kit, and even a miniature stapler. Use care when you staple, however, since you may leave tiny holes in the fabric.

Special thank you to writing coach, editor, and ghostwriter Bobbi Linkemer, who contributed the original material throughout MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com.