Olivia and Graham’s Under Canvas wedding featured natural materials, organic forms and neutral colors to mirror and celebrate Zion National Park’s majestic views
Photo courtesy of SoCal Standard
Head to Southern Utah for a distinctly desert wedding experience at Under Canvas.
Are you ready to get your glamp on? Under Canvas creates an unmatched setting that will immerse your entire celebration in adventure. Say “I Do” under a romantic starlit desert sky, or at high noon with the landscapes of some of Utah’s most iconic natural monuments as your backdrop.
With locations in Moab, Lake Powell-Grand Staircase, Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks, Under Canvas camps can accommodate nearly any size of celebration, from an intimate elopement-style ceremony to full property buyouts that can accommodate 500+ friends and family.
Photo courtesy of SoCal Standard
“For the best experience, we encourage couples to opt for a buyout of their preferred camp to have full privacy, as well as access to all areas of the camp and its activities,” says Megan Lamb, senior publicist at Under Canvas. Each camp features multiple areas to gather, including spacious decks, firepits and impressive stargazing viewpoints, as well as activities ranging from rafting to horseback riding.
Tents’ interiors can be dressed to the nines in luxury furnishings for lavish accommodations
Photo courtesy of @baileymade_
On-site, a host of tents can be arranged for a completely customized wedding layout. Smaller tents can be placed in a private area for pre-wedding primping or set center stage for cocktail hour. Safari-inspired glamping tents can be dressed to the hilt with accommodations for each VIP guest. One of their most unique venues, the “CanopyMarqui,” is a towering, safari-inspired hive tent that can house up to 500 guests while still feeling open and connected to the jaw-dropping landscape.
Walls of windows at ULUM resort show off breathtaking desert views.
Photo courtesy of ULUM
If you’d like the grandiose views without quite as much grit, consider booking at ULUM, an outdoor resort where high-end amenities and exceptional service merge with Moab’s spectacular scenery in an innovative, modern design ready for all manner of indoor-outdoor festivities.
Pretty pearls are back en vogue, dripping from lavish gowns and draping around the most unexpected of celebrity necks (hello, Mr. Styles).
“People aren’t wearing pearls like your grandma used to,” says Dominique Anderson, marketing manager at O.C. Tanner Jewelers. While nodding to tradition, today’s bride is updating this forever favorite by layering her heirloom pearls with contemporary jewels and mixed metals.
Pearls’ beautiful white color brings bridal delicacy to any look, whether paired with your “something old” gold locket, or a sparkling new diamonds-by-the-yard necklace. Modern fashion trends leave the door wide open for self-expression.
“More is more when it comes to jewelry styling today,” explains Sydney Smith, O.C. Tanner marketing assistant. “I’m never opposed to mixing metals or rich layering.”
So go big—match these wonderfully versatile gems with your silver chokers and your glittering gold engagement ring. There are no wrong answers here.
FROM THE PROS
Pearls are incredibly delicate and can be tarnished by even lightweight beauty products. O.C. Tanner’s professionals recommend getting fully glammed on your big day before donning your pearls as the finishing touch.
Similarly, pearls are also not the ideal choice for everyday wear. “We always recommend a diamond for your engagement ring, because they will hold up to everyday use,” Smith says. “Save your pearls for those special occasions.”
TOP TO BOTTOM:
Roberto Coin Pearl Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold, $810; John Hardy Pearl Ring in 18K Yellow Gold, $1,395; Roberto Coin Love By The Yard Necklace with Diamonds in 18K Rose Gold, $2,100; Mikimoto Necklace with 6mm Akoya Pearls in 18K Yellow Gold ,$2,550; Mikimoto Earrings with 7.5mm Akoya Pearls and Diamonds in 18K Yellow Gold, $4,550
Shower your bridal party with a host of locally-sourced and Utah-focused gifts
Few things are as important as selecting your bridal party. When tying the knot, you want only your most beloved friends and family by your side. Whether you propose to your party with a full gift box, or give them each a personalized item to thank them after the event, these local items make the perfect expression of affection and appreciation for a Utah wedding celebration.
Treat your bridesmaids to self-care items to help them primp before the big event. Make it personal by offering custom-engraved jewelry pieces crafted just for them. In the men’s department, a bow tie or novelty comb will ensure your line is looking dapper for the ceremony, while a hand-made (and landscape-loving, in this case) rocks glass paired with a quality whiskey prepares him to party. A luxurious pen delivers personal care and professional flair to any suit pocket.
“Fine writing instruments make the best groomsmen gifts,” says Sean Bradley, owner of Tabula Rasa Stationers. “They feel elegant and special, and you can get something personal for everyone.”
FOR THE MAIDS
Mad Hair Co. Nourishing Hair Oil, $38, and Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $34, madhairco.com; Custom Bridesmaid Proposal Cookie by Sugarhouse Bakery, pricing varies, sugarhouse.shop.com; Kitsch Eco-Friendly Mini Spa Rollers, $18, gotbeauty.com; Personalized Mini Oval Disc Necklace, $58, madebymary.com
FOR THE MEN
North Drinkware Hand Blown Wasatch Tumbler, $49, and Coaster Set, $20, northdrinkware.com; Switchblade Handle comb, $29, gotbeauty.com; DAZI “Utah” bow tie, $18, daziusa.com; Pilot Namiki Vanishing Point Pen in Marbled Orange, Graf von Faber Castell Perfect pencil, and Pineider Avatar UR Ballpoint pen in Riace Bronze, pricing available upon request, tabularasastationers.com
Thank you again for attending our 2024 White Party, in celebration of the kickoff of Utah’s wedding season! Photos by Ashlee Brooke Photography.
This year’s event theme, dreamed up by Duet Weddings and Events, played on the Italian coast vibes of Draper’s Siempre Venue. Brilliant blues offset by cheerful lemon yellow beckoned guests to enjoy every moment. For the showstopper of the decor, the pros at Artisan Bloom built towering green lemon trees from the ground up for an impressive spread of greenery at every table. We want to extend a special thank you to Kacey Lauchnor of Twelve30 Creative for crafting stunning signage and stationery to introduce the theme.
Speaking of tables, every surface was piled high with delectable bites from the brilliant chefs at James Beard nominated Urban Hill and their catering division, Hill’s Kitchen. Multiple flavors of dessert shooters, impressive cannoli, a full pasta and flatbread station and a jaw-dropping charcuterie spread welcomed guests in mouth-watering fashion. At the bar, a lineup of Mediterranean-themed cocktails brought even more color to the evening, presented by Mecca Bar Co. and Vine Lore.
Utah Live Bands provided equally coastal entertainment with the perfect event combo, while Utah Jive captured the evening in a floral-laden photo booth. Lounges welcomed relaxation, thanks to Apex Furniture Rental and Diamond Event and Tent. Guests danced the evening away atop a vinyl dance floor by Utah Floor Wraps.
On their way out, guests enjoyed favors of delicious Sprinkles cupcakes, custom olive oil infusions by Chef Adam Park and VIP gift bags full of goodies from Elements of Sage, St. Regis Deer Valley, O.C. Tanner Jewelers, and Got Beauty.
Stay tuned for more imagery from Ashlee Brooke Photo!
Head to Instagram to enjoy a video montage of the evening, captured by Ryan Hinman Films:
Whether your celebration is downtown or out in the iconic Southern Utah deserts, our state is host to a full range of pre-wedding event spaces, each equipped with catering, furnishings and all the elements needed for a stress-free wedding weekend.
RED ROCK ROMANCE AT ENTRADA
As one of Southern Utah’s premier private golf clubs, Entrada (golfentrada.com) is surrounded by world-renowned landscapes. And while the idea of planning at a private club may sound daunting, you don’t need a membership to access the club’s stunning indoor event spaces.
The Entrada clubhouse is home to two ballrooms and a private dining space, each with remarkable views of St. George’s red rock formations. The property’s two ballrooms, each divisible into up to three sections for more familiar accommodations, include floor-to-ceiling window walls which open up for direct access to the clubhouse’s patios and lush lawns.
“Access to the lawn allows you to make an event more casual and fun,” says Carey Kerns, Event Sales Manager. “Couples often place lawn games outside to play as a group.” The lawn is also the space where most Entrada vows are exchanged, so lawn access is the perfect way to transition from rehearsing your ceremony straight into a high-end dining experience. In the venue’s more intimate Prince Dining Room, couples and their guests have access to an upper-balcony patio with views into Snow Canyon Park.
Alongside beautiful spaces, couples also have access to house linens and a trained and talented event staff—from award-winning chefs (outside catering is not permitted) to skilled event setup experts. Should you need lodging, The Inn at Entrada boasts accommodations up to two bedrooms, each with attached garages, for your guests to stay in style while on site.
MOUNTAIN MODERN: PARK CITY’S PENDRY HOTEL
Take advantage of a full range of dining and style options at Pendry Park City (pendry.com/park-city). A recent addition to Park City’s Village area, the luxury hotel is the perfect landing spot for a city-chic bride craving a touch of mountain flair.
For larger groups, Pendry has two onsite ballrooms ready for all manner of customizations. “We have air walls that split ballrooms into smaller spaces if needed,” says Shelby Truax, Sales Manager over Catering and Private Dining at Pendry. “Then we can arrange with rounds, buffets or highboys for any sort of plated or cocktail-hour event.” Pendry has a full catering menu created expressly for event guests to utilize in these spaces, and they offer a variety of options for your perfect rehearsal dinner spread. What’s more, the hotel has a dedicated A/V team on-site which, though not required as in-house catering is, gives you one less vendor to enlist.
If a more intimate and luxurious dining experience fits the bill, Pendry’s KITA restaurant may be your pick. A high-end Japanese sushi bar and steakhouse, KITA offers options for full and partial buyouts for both buffet and plated dinners.
Take a casual approach with a custom party at one of the destination’s celebration-ready restaurants: Disco Pizza and Dos Olas Mexican restaurant. “At Dos Olas, you have a lot of fun options,” says Truax. “You could do build-your-own tacos and margaritas. You could come up with passed ceviche or tostadas for cocktail hour. Dos Olas is definitely more chill—but equally delicious.”
Because most destination weddings encompass a full weekend, Pendry is also happy to assist in arranging room blocks and other lodging needs for your wedding guests. “We strive for convenience,” Truax explains. “We try to have everything available in one spot, so guests don’t have to travel very far to get to the festivities.”
GO DOWNTOWN AT EDISON HOUSE
Cropping up next door to Valter’s Osteria and Salt Lake City’s hotel district, a new kid on the block is ready to host couples in fresh style. Edison House social club (edisonhouseslc.com) opened its doors on 200 West in 2022, in hopes of transforming how Salt Lakers work, network and, of course, celebrate.
The club’s most intimate space is the wine room, located off the main level restaurant. Contemporary furnishings and modern design await a small group of your family and friends. It offers a full catering menu crafted by in-house chef Buzz Willey, formerly of SLC’s Pallet restaurant.
Plan a full party with a pre-wedding celebration at Edison House’s speakeasy—think glistening chandeliers, rich velvet and a stage for karaoke, jazz band and anything in-between. The speakeasy has a full bar and can host up to 75 guests for. a swanky rehearsal, bachelor party or bridal shower.
Though the club boasts a host of beautiful spaces, the most popular is its Events Hall. Located on the building’s top floor, the contemporary-chic event room features a towering wall of windows framing views of bustling downtown SLC and the valley’s western mountain ranges. Outside, the large patio invites personal touches, whether you choose a candlelit outdoor dinner or clusters of cozy lounge furniture for an intimate cocktail reception.
Utah natives Paige, a manager at Biolife Plasma Services, and Chris, a Software Engineer, met in their high school’s robotics club. Though they didn’t speak much at first because they were nervous, they both had crushes on one another. After a year of not talking, the two attended Rocky Picture Horror Show and have been best friends ever since.
THE PROPOSAL
Chris’s elaborate and thoughtful proposal plan started with a call to Paige’s boss, asking for her to be released from work early. After having a “weirdly insistent” conversation with her boss, Paige was greeted by Chris, telling her to pack for a “staycation” in Portland. Chris continued to surprise her with tickets to the Broadway musical Hamilton and a weekend stay in a rejuvenating spa hotel in Oregon’s wine country. Chris finally popped the question over dinner after a relaxing spa day for Paige (and nerves so intense he couldn’t eat). The couple celebrated their engagement with a post-proposal late-night bite at In n’ Out so Chris could finally get something to eat.
THE CEREMONY
After a fourteen-month engagement, the couple was finally ready to tie the knot in a beautiful hand-tying ceremony at La Caille.
“La Caille was actually the venue of the first wedding that I had ever attended. I remembered the greenhouse and the compass mosaic on the floor and the beautiful gardens. Ever since then anytime I thought of ‘wedding’ it was La Caille that came to mind,” Paige said.
The wedding, which was witnessed by 170 people, took place on the venue’s luscious Vineyard Lawn and was officiated by Paige’s mom’s favorite winter weather expert, Craig Gordon, who even signed an autograph for the bride’s mother.
Paige was adorned in an a-line, off-the-shoulder wedding dress, a golden tiara and comfortable blue heels. Chris donned a chocolate-colored suit with their wedding date embroidered inside the blue lining and a red tie, to match the couple’s wedding colors. The bridal party matched their pearl necklaces with the groomsmen’s pearl tie-tacks.
By her side, Paige had her best friend from college, Morgan, her elementary school best friend, Sam, and brother-from-another-mother, Jack, along with her dear friend James who was stationed in Japan and not able to attend. Next to Chris were his best friend from high school, Rayden, online gaming friend, Chris, his friend, Tom, from high school and Chris’s sister, Rebecca.
THE RECEPTION
After making it official, the newlyweds danced the night away at their reception in La Caille’s. The couple’s DJ played the song Planetarium from La La Land for the couple’s first dance, which they had been secretly choreographing since six months into their engagement.
The mouthwatering menu of the night included steak, green beans, pasta, chicken and the “best mashed potatoes [Paige had] ever eaten.” The signature drinks of the night were named after the couple’s two cats, The Lazy Hazel and The Bear Lake Monther (named for their cat Tobey whom they rescued while in Bear Lake).
The happy couple’s wedding cake was made by the bride’s sister and was made up of a layer of rich chocolate raspberry cake and another of delectable strawberry shortcake, with matching cupcakes for the party’s guests to enjoy.
The reception was furnished with antique decor and books for the guest’s visual enjoyment. A seating chart made up of antique books helped guests to find their table.
“We spent our entire engagement going to every antique shop (as well as sending our overly loving and patient family/bridal party as well) we could find to furnish the little décor items and find books to put everywhere,” Paige said. “I wanted it to feel like every item had a story (and a little magic) and that guests could pick things up and play with them. It was so fun to talk to guests and share the story of our centerpieces and décor.”
The couple had a final, private dance to Sufjan Steven’s Mystery of Love before riding into the sunset in a vintage white Ford Thunderbird. Guests were able to take home glass magnetic hearts, made by the bride’s mom, as party favors.
THE HONEYMOON
The honeymooners spent a week in Jamaica to relieve themselves of the wedding-day stress and to spend their first trip as newlyweds.
Camille and Tommy’s love story is a modern “Hinge Happily Ever After.” After connecting on the online dating platform, Camille (a Salt Lake City native) and Tommy (a transplant from Littleton, Massachusetts) dated for seven and a half months before taking things to the next level.
Tommy had just moved to San Francisco and was visiting Camille in Utah during October when he decided to do something extra special. The pair took a drive through the Alpine Loop to admire Utah’s fall colors. They found a secluded path into a clearing, where they could take some photos and enjoy nature away from the canyon crowds. “We talked about how lucky we felt to be together, and then just as I was starting to wonder if we should go back to the car, Tommy got on one knee,” recalls Camille. “It was so special and private.”
THE WEDDING
The couple took their engagement photos at the Downtown SLC Commercial Club venue, and they immediately fell in love with the space’s old world details, from its vintage wainscoting to its towering ceilings and glittering chandeliers. “The white was the perfect backdrop for our colorful florals,” says the bride.
Camille approached La Fete Floral and Events with a self-described “color-explosion” vision for her big day, a vision that florist Allison Braddley expertly translated into playful arrangements full of eye-catching interest and texture. Lavender, pink and pale yellow were the main players in this palette, delivering a cool-toned spread to every corner, while still feeling upbeat and youthful.
At Bonneville Glen, a fireplace arrangement in subtle pinks and purples welcomed the couple to the end of their ceremony aisle, where Camille’s uncle officiated. Cousins played violins during the family procession down the aisle, led by the couple’s niece Charlotte as the flower girl. “When it was time for [us] to exchange vows, we abandoned the [altar] and ducked aside into a little bit of shade, so we could soak in the moment instead of battling the heat.”
For the ceremony and pre-reception events, Camille wore a custom-designed wedding gown by Penelope’s Gowns, who also crafted the mother-of-the-bride’s wedding gown in the 1990s. “It was a dream to have Penelope make my gown and it turned out even better than I had imagined.”
The bespoke gown featured billowing tulle sleeves, a fitted v-neck bodice and flowing skirts in patterned lace. For a bit of shine, the bride also wore jewelry gifted to her by her late grandparents. Equally chic, Tommy donned a classic blue suit and pale blue necktie.
THE PARTY
Back inside the venue, guests enjoyed a catered menu of on-trend handheld items, from vegetable gyoza and a cantina-style salsa bar to BBQ pork steamed buns and gelato stations. Three signature mocktails graced the bar: pomegranate limeade with fresh mint, a blackberry basil mule and pineapple mint mojitos.
Primed for dancing, the bride swapped her custom gown for a dazzling sequin jumpsuit that fit the celebratory mood. Tommy and Camille’s personalized playlist was a crucial element of their wedding vision, so DJ Shane Taylor arrived on scene to showcase their curated tracks and keep guests dancing. The couple led festivities with a first dance to “Golden Hour” by Kacey Musgraves, and midway through the number the DJ invited their parents to join. Afterward, “My Girl” played over the speakers and every guest was invited to grab someone they love and join in on the fun.
THE HONEYMOON
Following their carefree wedding day, Camille and Tommy embarked on a honeymoon adventure to Riviera Maya, Mexico.
VENDORS
WEDDING PLANNING AND FLORAL DESIGN: Allison Baddley, La Fete Floral and Design, lafetefloral.com
As the focal point of attention at a wedding, it’s essential for brides to enlist the services of a skilled beauty specialist, one equipped with the talent and expertise necessary to craft a look ensuring that breath-catching moment when the couple first locks eyes.
At Beauty by Reese, owner and professional beauty artist Reese Stockman knows what it takes to make a wedding day unforgettable.
With a plethora of expertise gained throughout 18 years in the beauty industry, she has the skills and vision necessary to create the perfect look to help couples feel like the best version of themselves.
As an industry veteran who got her start with MAC cosmetics, Reese knows how to spot trends and the innovative products needed to render an initial concept into a walking vision.
“It’s such an inspiring time to work in the beauty industry. The products available are the best they’ve ever been. My kit has everything from Givenchy (luxury) to Nars (mid -range) to Elf (drug store) and each brand offers a specific value,” Reese explains.
In a state where beauty is in high-demand, she knows what a huge blessing it is for her to be a part of the Salt Lake City beauty industry.
“I’m able to see what styles are trending, so I can be certain that each and every look has my signature Reese look to go with those styles. It’s rare you’ll find my signature looks without a winged eyeliner sharp enough to slice through anything or a custom eyelash that just pops the eye perfectly.”
Reese Stockman, Makeup Artist
Ask the Expert
What’s Ahead:
As a proud board member of the Wedding International Professionals Association (WIPA), I’m excited to continue collaborating with the industry’s top professionals. Being a part of this elite networking community allows me and our vetted chapter members to operate and advance the ethical standards of the wedding industry.
Excited About:
Inspiration comes easy since I’m beyond blessed to be surrounded by so many talented people in this industry. That makes it impossible not to be inspired daily to push myself toward innovative directions for my career.
Fresh Ideas:
Find a new idea you love and work with someone who can blend it with your personal style. I love the response I get from clients when they see the new twist I put on classic ideas.
Non-alcoholic wine is leading the trend in cocktail hour alternatives.
There are many reasons you might offer your wedding guests non-alcoholic beverage choices at your reception, but that doesn’t mean they can’t indulge in a glass of something special to match the occasion. Put down the Martinelli’s and Shirley Temples and, instead, consider non-alcoholic wine as an elevated alternative for non-imbibers.
Created by people who know and love wine, non-alcoholic vino embraces full-bodied flavor without the buzz. “It’s a compelling product that checks a lot of boxes for Utahns,” says Tracy Thompson, President and CEO of wine brokerage/non-alcoholic distributor VineLore.
After scouring the market for non-and-low alcoholic wine options since 2012, Thompson noticed a boom in the industry after 2020. Taking their cue from the growing demand for NA options, leading wine-producers now offer dealcoholized pinot noirs and sauvignon blancs. And for those who prefer zero residual alcohol, companies like Zilch have created bubbly grape beverages that never undergo fermentation. “There’s lots of innovation in this market,” Thompson remarks.
So go ahead, serve those bubbles during cocktail hour and a glass of cabernet with your reception dinner. Guests will appreciate the extra thought and will be encouraged to sip and savor on your special day.
THOMPSON’S TOP PICKS FOR NA WINE
Surely Sparkling Rose
Waterbrook Clean Cabernet Sauvignon
Zilch Brut Bubbles
Visit vinelore.com to discover more non-alcoholic beverages and find a local retailer near you.
Jewelry: Missoma Gold Huggies earrings, O.C. Tanner Collection Athena 3-row band stacked with Precision Set eternity band with oval diamonds, O.C. Tanner Jewelers.
When it comes to wedding dresses, the focus is always on the finding. The process of seeking out and selecting the dream wedding dress is always front and center of the conversation. As it should be, right?
It’s a big, important process, and it’s a crucial part of having the wedding of your dreams.
But still, there’s more to it than many people think. It’s not just about finding the right dress–that’s the first step. It’s about finding the right dress and finding the right alterations–that’s the real, less-discussed kicker.
All it really takes is finding the right seamstress.
And, lucky for you, Irene + Co Events has a go-to list of must-consider tips for sourcing a seamstress who can make your wedding dress dreams come true. Enjoy this advice from a pro!
Everything You Should Know About Bridal Alterations
Photo by M Hart Photography
Pick & Buy Your Dress in Advance
Of course, you can’t seek out a seamstress for a wedding dress you don’t have–so, yes, finding a wedding dress is the first step of it all.
Here’s what I’ve got to say about sourcing a dress that makes you dizzy with excitement.
Start the search about one year before you get married. Sure, it will take time to find the right fit. But mostly, this is because you’ll need ample time after you’ve found the dress for alterations and fittings. Plus, most gowns will need to be created and need four to six months for that process (unless you’re shopping off the rack, but I’ll get to that in a minute). If creating the dress takes a few months and altering the dress takes a few months, a year in advance is a great metric for finding the right dress.
When you’re trying on dresses in-store, remember that you’re most likely working with sample sizes. This usually means dresses will be available in sizes 0-10, with the average amount running between 8-12.
Wedding dress sizes are different than normal sizing, and they typically run small. So, someone who might be a 4 in jeans could be an 8 in bridal. Usually, the rule is to add two sizes to your normal clothes.
Remember, bridal dress orders are final. Usually, there are no returns or exchanges, so make sure you absolutely love the design.
Ask for Samples & Check Out Off-the-Rack Options
Let’s say that your bridal shop doesn’t have a specific dress in stock, but they carry the designer you like. You can always ask for a special sample to be shipped to the store for you. The shop might not always oblige, but it’s usually worth an ask.
Alternatively, if you’re working with a shorter timeline and you need something quicker, try shopping off the rack for last season’s styles or discontinued looks. The plus side? These dresses are still absolutely beautiful and likely will just need a little attention from a good seamstress because they won’t be made specifically for your measurements.
Consider Your Realistic Timeline
Photo via Chalo Garcia, Unsplash
The alterations process usually spans anywhere from 2 to 4 appointments. Once you’ve purchased your dress, the process begins. Here’s what this timeline typically looks like:
Appointment 1: A 30-minute to 1-hour appointment where your seamstress pins, tucks, and marks while you collaborate on what you’d like done to the dress and the fit.
Appointment 2: Evaluate the current changes and see how the dress looks with these alterations made. Maybe the neckline changes pull the fabric in a way you didn’t expect. That’s OK, things happen. You’ll make notes and ask for adjustments from your seamstress.
Appointment 3: Try on your dress for final adjustments, and have it steamed and cleaned for your wedding day.
For shorter timelines, it’s important to be realistic about alterations. You’ll likely want to pick a dress that fits you almost perfectly and requires minimal alterations.
The best thing you can do is to be upfront and honest with your seamstress about your timeline from the start–this way, they can help you plan accordingly.
Wedding Planner Pro Tip: Always wear your wedding shoes during your alterations appointments so you can see how the dress fits with them on.
Think About Bridal Shops with In-House Alterations
One of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to choose a bridal shop that includes in-house alterations. Usually, if you have alteration questions about a dress during the try-on phase, the seamstress can answer these questions ahead of time so you can decide whether it’s a worthwhile purchase.
Know Your Options
Photo via Roberto Martinez, Unsplash
If you’re not sure what to ask for or how to alter your wedding gown, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some of the options. Remember, a talented seamstress can help you determine what needs to be done, but you might consider things like:
altering a neckline
adding or removing sleeves
changing the skirt fit
adding a bustle
including a detachable skirt
creating a veil
hemming
taking in or letting out
The average alterations cost anywhere from $500-$3,000, depending on what you’re looking for. The more customized, the more you’re likely to pay. Try to consider this in your budget when you’re purchasing your wedding dress.
Detailed Questions are a Must Before You Decide on Your Seamstress
Photo via Anna Kumpman, Unsplash
If you’re still in the process of finding a dress, we recommend asking your bridal shop these questions. If you’ve found your dress and are seeking out a seamstress, ask them these questions.
Do you have an in-house seamstress who’s available for alterations?
What is the current wait time for alterations?
How long will this dress take to come in, and how long will it take to have it altered?
How many years of experience does this seamstress have with bridal gowns?
Trust the Process
The best advice I can offer brides who find qualified seamstresses is to trust the process.
Bring a trusted support system with you to each appointment (like your Maid of Honor, a friend, or a close family member) to help you have fun and keep realistic expectations.
Your Wedding Planner Can Help, Too
If you’re not sure where to start with the alterations process, remember that a qualified, experienced wedding planner can help you get things moving. They’ll likely know the best shops to check out, have great seamstress recommendations, and can ensure you’re moving on the right timeline for your needs. As a wedding planner who’s been in the business for nearly a decade, I’m here to help. Reach out anytime with questions about alterations, the wedding dress shopping process, or planning your wedding.
