It's gonna take patience and time to do it right

One thing all brides have in common is The Wedding Dress. Regardless of your style or the type of wedding you're having, chances are you're going to be wearing a special dress of some kind.

Whether you order your gown from a superstore like David's Bridal or an intimate boutique like Mariee Gallery, you will need alterations. Be sure to consider this when budgeting for your dress. Alterations can range from $50.00 to $300.00 or more, depending on how much work you need done. Even if you are lucky enough to fit perfectly into the dress that was ordered, you will almost certainly need the hem altered. Also, if your dress has a train, you will need a bustle. Most dresses do not come with the bustle already done, since the way a dress is bustled depends on the final hem length. Your seamstress will be able to advise you on the most effective and attractive way to bustle your gown- all dresses are different!

Some things to consider when trying on your gown, whether you're having one custom-made (by Jewel Couture, we hope!) or ordering from a retailer:

1. Wear your wedding shoes! This is the only way the seamstress will know how long to mark the hem. It is also good practice, since you'll be standing in these shoes for an extended length of time on the big day!

2. Wear your wedding undergarments! The fit of your gown can be drastically affected by the bra you wear. If you are going to be wearing Spanx or any other foundation garment, be sure to wear these as well. This also applies to crinolines or bridal slips, as they affect the hem length.

3. Take your gown to a reputable seamstress or alterations expert. Do not try to save money by going to a tailor or someone who doesn't have experience with wedding alterations! I have fixed too many mistakes for panicked brides who had taken their gowns to someone who didn't give the proper care and attention needed for such an important garment. A gown that is custom-made will be fabricated to fit you already, of course. However, if you do order a gown from a retailer, they should be able to do alterations in-house or recommend a seamstress to you.

4. Bring your wedding jewelry and accessories to the fitting. This will help you get a preview of the whole look. What if great-grandma Mabel's necklace clashes with the beading around the neckline of your gown? You'll be glad you found out before the big day!

5. Look your best! This kind of goes with #4. Sure, it might be a Saturday morning, but instead of schlepping around like most weekends, come to your fitting with your hair styled and your makeup nicely done. You'll look and feel great when you get into your dress.

I hope this has been informative for you brides-to-be! Jewel Couture is pleased to offer alteration services as well as custom designs; please feel free to contact us any time for more information.