Alterations on sewing Machine

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 FAQ / Bridal Alterations

Alteration of Wedding dress
Bride and groom in front of house
Before and After of Wedding Dress

What is the typical timeline for wedding dress alterations?

To ensure your wedding dress fits perfectly, we advise having your first fitting at least 8-10 weeks before your wedding day. This allows ample time for any alterations needed and ensures the dress is ready for you to pick up 2 weeks prior to your wedding. Please book your appointments early, particularly during the peak wedding season, to guarantee availability

How much do wedding dress alterations cost?

The cost of wedding dress alterations depends on your gown’s construction and the specific adjustments required.
To help you understand what to expect, I’ve outlined four general categories of alterations:


Simple Adjustments | ~$200 – $400

Quick and easy work to improve comfort or minor fit issues:

  • Raising or shortening straps

  • Shortening the length of light or simple gowns

  • Adding a simple bustle

This option is ideal if you only need very basic changes and want a quick, budget-friendly solution.


Standard Adjustments | ~$400 – $800

Foundational alterations to ensure your gown fits beautifully without major structural changes. Examples include:

  • Hemming gowns with low to medium-volume skirts (1–3 layers)

  • Adding a bustle with multiple attachment points

  • Refining the fit by taking in or letting out side seams

This tier is perfect for brides needing essential adjustments to feel comfortable and confident.


Advanced Alterations | ~$800 – $1,200

For gowns that require more detailed work to achieve the perfect silhouette. This may include:

  • Hemming gowns with 3+ layers or intricate hems

  • Reshaping the bust and other areas for a more tailored fit

  • Dresses with full beading or lace covering areas that need adjustment

  • Gowns that are two or more sizes too small or too large

  • Adding extra boning to support the bust

These alterations require additional expertise to maintain the gown’s integrity while achieving a customized fit.


Custom & Transformational Work | $1,200 – $2,000+

For brides looking to make significant changes or enhancements, including:

  • Adding custom sleeves or lining an unlined bodice

  • Adjusting necklines or bodice lengths

  • Adding or replacing skirt layers for volume and movement

  • Reworking, redesigning, or reinventing a gown’s structure

  • Restoration or detailed work on vintage gowns

Pricing depends on the complexity of the design, materials, and craftsmanship required.


Your wedding day is incredibly special, and alterations are an investment in feeling your best.
I’m happy to explore different options with you—whether it’s a budget-conscious adjustment or a fully customized solution for a flawless fit.
If you’re working within a tight budget, please let me know in advance. I can prioritize faster fittings and focus on essential adjustments while still ensuring your dress looks beautiful.

Can I get a quote without booking an appointment?

To give you a quote, I need to see your dress in person and pin it to assess what alterations are required. For this reason, please book an Initial Consultation, even if you are only seeking a quote. There is no obligation to proceed with alterations after the consultation. If you choose not to go ahead and only require a quote, a $50 fitting and consultation fee will apply.
When booking, please write “quote only” in the comment box if you are only looking for a quote.

What if my weight changes after the final fitting?

For the best results, try to maintain your weight after the final fitting. If you experience significant weight changes, please reach out to me immediately. I will do my best to accommodate any major adjustments needed.

Do you offer express service for wedding dress alterations?

I can occasionally offer express services for an additional fee. For availability, please contact me directly via text or phone. To avoid any last-minute stress, I recommend starting the alteration process as early as possible.

The booking time for wedding alterations is 60 minutes, but my alteration seems simple. Do I need the full time?

I schedule enough time to accommodate most dresses. If your fitting takes less time, I’ll use the extra minutes to work on other tasks. You’ll only be charged for the time spent during your appointment, so you can relax and not worry about it!

In rare cases, more complex alterations might require additional time. If that happens, we may need to schedule a follow-up session. To help avoid extra charges, it’s a good idea to come prepared with clear ideas and the undergarments you plan to wear, such as stick-on bras.

Can you transform my mother’s wedding dress into my wedding dress or reception dress?

Absolutely. It would be our pleasure to help you turn your mother’s wedding dress into something uniquely yours, creating a piece that’s both timeless and personal, perfect for your special day.

Please note that working with vintage dresses can take longer due to their delicate condition, and may also cost more. I’d be happy to discuss the details and provide guidance on what to expect.

Do you accept brides who travel from outside Tauranga?

Yes, many of my brides and clients have travelled from other regions — including Rotorua, Taupō, Coromandel, Hamilton, Whakatāne, Auckland, Gisborne, and Wellington.

To achieve a perfect fit, it’s ideal to complete alterations over several fittings. However, I understand it can be challenging to visit multiple times when coming from a distance.

For long-distance clients, I can arrange a slightly longer initial fitting and stay flexible with your arrival time. I may also suggest thoughtful ways to reduce the number of fittings where possible.

If you plan to stay in Tauranga for a few days, it may be possible to complete your alterations during that time, with several fittings scheduled throughout your stay. Please note that large-scale or highly customised work may not be suitable for this option.

In such cases, I adjust my schedule to ensure uninterrupted time for your dress, so please contact me early to secure your booking. A rush fee will apply for this intensive fitting option.

Do you create wedding dresses?

I do not provide services where I make wedding dresses from scratch. Only alterations and changing the details of the original dress.

Do you sell wedding dresses or veils?

No, I don’t sell dresses or veils. I simply provide my skills and experience to help you alter, reshape, and personalise your own gown, so it fits beautifully and feels just right for you.

FAQ  / General Garments

Before and After of Grey Jacket
Before and after of Knit top
Before and After Stipe Pants

How much will it cost?

Basic pants hemming services start at $25 + GST with a professional fitting.  Additional charges may apply for decorative details such as splits, cuffs, elastic, or zips.

For other alteration or repair services, pricing varies based on the fabric, garment shape, and your body type, so there are no fixed prices. To receive a detailed quote, please book an appointment and bring the item to my studio. A precise estimate will be provided after a fitting during your visit.

What’s your turnaround time for basic garments?

My standard turnaround time for basic garments is 2 weeks. For more complex items requiring additional fittings, it may take longer. If you need your garment sooner, I offer an express service for an additional 30% fee. This service may not be available for all garments, so please check with me in advance.

Can I get a quote by sending a photo?

No, I cannot provide a quote based on photos. A fitting and in-person inspection of the garment are necessary, as every item has a different structure and the required alterations depend on your body shape. An accurate quote can only be given after a fitting. Please feel free to book an appointment—there is no obligation to proceed afterward.

What are your opening hours and can I visit without an appointment?

We operate by appointment only, ensuring each client receives personalized attention. This flexible schedule allows us to accommodate your needs at a time that suits you best. Walk-ins are not accepted, so please book a time that suits you in advance.

Do you offer same-day alterations?

I take the time to carefully and thoroughly work on each job, ensuring the highest quality. While I do offer express services, these still require a minimum of two days to complete. As a solo artisan, I personally handle every aspect of the work and client interactions, allowing me to remember each client’s preferences and provide a truly personalised experience. Thank you for your understanding.

How can I pay?

I accept payments via EFTPOS, credit card (Visa and Mastercard, a surcharge apply), and direct deposit

What is your policy on further adjustments?

Your satisfaction is our priority. If you need further adjustments after your initial fitting, we offer one complimentary adjustment within 14 days of pickup.

Is Dressmaking Available?

At the moment, I am focusing on wedding dress alterations, which keeps me very busy. Unfortunately, I am unable to take on dressmaking projects. Dressmaking is a time-intensive process that involves designing, selecting fabrics, taking body measurements, drafting patterns, and multiple fittings. Due to the complexity and time required for each step, I am not able to accommodate dressmaking requests at this time. Thank you for your understanding.

Do you work on curtains, pillows, and squabs?

I only work with garment alterations and do not offer upholstery services.

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