FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I stop by without scheduling an appointment?
Because my sewing studio is run out of my home, all visits are by appointment only. Please call me in advance to schedule an appointment.
What are your hours of operation?
A typical work week is Monday through Friday from 9am- 5pm. However, I am flexible and will meet with clients for fittings/consultations after hours and on a Saturday or Sunday if necessary, so long as it does not conflict with any of my prior arrangements and/or appointments.
How soon will you be available to meet with me?
Depending on both your and my schedules, as soon as possible.
How much time should I plan for fittings /consultations?
Bridal, formal wear and custom-made garments require anywhere from 30-60 minutes for the initial fitting/consultation. Additional 2-3 follow-up fittings may be required for bridal gowns and custom-made garments and usually do not take more than 30 minutes per visit.
Basic alterations, such as for hems and side seams, typically take only a few minutes if you have a couple of garments. However, please keep in mind that the more garments you need to have altered and the extent of the alterations, the longer the fitting will take (may require a fitting fee. See below). If you find additional garments you need altered after scheduling your appointment, kindly call in advance, so that I may set aside sufficient time for your fitting.
Do you charge fitting fees?
There are no fitting fees for basic alterations that take only a few minutes. However, bridal, formal wear and custom-made garments do require a fee for the initial fitting/consultation. Larger or more detailed alterations may also require a fitting fee, but this is determined at the time of your appointment, once I can see the garments firsthand. All fees are based on my hourly rate and must be paid in cash.
If I have spent time fitting and pinning your garment(s) and you decide to not accept my price estimate to complete the project, you will be required to pay my hourly rate, which must be paid in cash.
Do you provide firm quotes?
All prices are offered in the form of a range (for example, $15-$25) and are estimates only, not firm quotes. Alterations/sewing projects may require more work than initially anticipated, so offering a price range takes this variable into account. In addition, I will have a better feel for the amount of work and time required to complete your project once I see your garments or pattern.
Bridal alterations seem so pricey. Is this realistic?
Many soon-to-be brides are hesitant about paying higher prices for bridal alterations because it seems too pricey. Realistically, the amount of work that goes into altering a bridal gown is extensively more labour intensive than an everyday ready-to-wear dress. For example, to shorten the hem and take in the sides of a beaded satin dress with a lace motif, lining and 3-4 layers of tulle, the following is what will need to be done:
- Before taking in the sides, the lace will need to be delicately removed so as not to damage it (very labour intensive), then re-sewn once the gown has been altered.
- The beads will need to be removed one at a time, then re-sewn once the gown has been altered.
- The fashion fabric (in this case, the satin outer layer of the gown) as well as the lining and all the underlayers would need to be shortened. If there is a braid in the hem (typical in bridal gowns to stiffen the hem), then that will also need to be removed prior to shortening the hem.
- In many cases, the boning used in the bodice of the gown will also need to be addressed before any alterations can begin.
- If you want a bustle, this will be additional work.
As you may have realised by now, a lot of work goes into bridal alterations, which equates to the higher prices. A qualified and reputable seamstress or tailor will take the time to retain the integrity of the dress and will not take any shortcuts. He/she will also stand behind the quality of workmanship performed.
If you decide to use my services to alter your bridal gown, I guarantee that I will take the utmost care in altering your gown to your satisfaction. My goal is to provide you with professional and quality service and I do not settle for anything less than 100% satisfaction from my clients. During your consultation, we will discuss your expectations and wherever needed, I will be happy to offer my advice on the best way to approach the alterations so that you may have the dress of your dreams.
What should I bring with me to my bridal or formal wear fitting appointment?
You should bring the same undergarments you plan to wear with your gown or formal outfit as well as shoes with the correct heel height for hem changes.
What is the timeframe for completing my requested alterations or custom project?
This depends entirely on my current workload and sewing schedule. I take great care in providing quality workmanship for all my clients’ projects and I take this fact into account when providing you with an estimated pickup date for your garments. Garments needing basic alterations may be ready within one to two weeks. Depending on the gown style, bridal, formal wear and custom garments typically need two to eight weeks.
Note: Due to the limited storage space in my studio, all garments not picked up within 21 days of your being notified that they are completed will incur a $10 per day storage fee. No exceptions. Please plan accordingly.
Do you offer a “rush” service?
This depends entirely on my current workload and sewing schedule as well as the extent of your project and the timeframe within which you will need it completed. If my workload permits, I may consider accepting your “rush” project. However, under no circumstance will I sacrifice quality for the sake of completing a project in a short time. If I know that my quality of workmanship will be compromised due to the time constraint, I will not accept your project. In the event that I accept your project, an additional $30 “rush” fee will be charged to your alterations estimate.
I have a favorite pair of pants, dress, blouse, jacket, skirt…(fill in the blank) that fits me beautifully, but it’s looking old and worn. Can you recreate it for me?
Absolutely! Just bring your favorite garment and the fabric of your choice along with you to your appointment. Then leave the rest to me.
Do you alter or create custom-made leather, suede and fur garments?
No. As an ethical vegan, I choose to not work with animal skins in any form.
Do you have any additional requirements prior to my appointment?
Please ensure that all your garments are clean and free from smoke and pet dander. Pet hair, especially, can damage and shorten the life of sewing machines.
If I am required to launder your garments prior to working on them, an additional $30 launder or dry cleaning fee, whichever is greater, will be applied to your alterations estimate. Any applicable launder or dry cleaning services will be discussed with you prior to commencement of my services.
Where are you located?
My sewing studio is in Oviedo, Florida. Please call me for directions. I can be reached at (407) 574-3900.
If you have any further questions that are not addressed on this page, please do not hesitate to call me.
