Frequently Asked Questions

Fitting Appointments

Consultations are available by appointment only and need to be pre-booked in advance via email – info@brideandalter.com.

A bridal fitting appointment needs focus and therefore, we ask our clients to limit the number of family and friends they bring to their fitting appointment to a maximum of two. Choose support that makes you feel at ease. Cancellation later than 24 hours before the appointment might be charged.

How long will my dress take?

We advise leaving about two to three months between your first dress fitting and your wedding day or the date you need to collect your wedding dress. We offer an express bridal service if required, and depending on the time of year, the service is chargeable.

How many fittings will I need?

We will ensure you are 100% happy with your wedding dress before you’ll take it home. After your first bridal fitting, we will schedule your next collection appointment, allowing enough time for a further fitting if needed. Bridal alterations often require two to three fittings to ensure your dress is perfect.

How do you work out costs?

All our bridal services – fitting, alterations, and dressmaking – are based on an hourly rate of £90
(from 02/02/25). The amount we charge therefore directly relates to the duration of your fitting and how long our tailors take to complete the work on your wedding dress. Express charges will sometimes apply for alterations that need to be undertaken closer than six weeks to your wedding date.

Why do I pay fitting fees?

Depending on your type of dress, we suggest requesting a one to two-hour fitting appointment for your first bridal fitting. Fitting fees are £90 (from 02/02/25) per hour, and they are in addition to alteration and material costs. For example, if your consultation takes only half an hour, we will charge only £45. There is no obligation to proceed with any alterations sought or advised. Fitting appointments provide the opportunity to discuss all aspects of your attire and for you to decide exactly how you wish to maximise the impact and fit of your chosen dress, within the budget you choose. We can advise on all aspects and options, costing everything for you, and we can provide veils, capes, and other accessories to complement the look.

What should I bring with me to the fitting?

Please bring your choice of well-fitted underwear and your wedding shoes. If you haven’t bought your shoes yet, bring another pair of shoes with the same heel height. This is to get your hemline right. If you have any concerns regarding your undergarments, please consult with us before your dress fitting. We cannot properly provide for a perfect fit of your dress without these essentials – shoes and underwear.

How far in advance do I need to book?

During our busiest time of year (between April and July), weekends and evening appointments are very popular. We advise booking up to eight weeks in advance to secure your time slot.

Your Bridal Party and alteration discounts

All members of the bridal party – groom, mother-of-the-bride or groom, father-of-the-bride or groom, and bridesmaids are entitled to often generous discounts if they need their festive outfits perfectly fitted and altered for the wedding day. Please ask when you book your appointment.