Check if Alterations are possible

Hi, brides-to-be!
I’ve been getting a few emails lately from brides asking me to alter wedding dresses they purchased elsewhere.
I completely understand that finding the one can be a journey, and sometimes you fall in love with a dress outside my boutique—that’s completely fine! However, I want to be upfront about alteration costs, especially when making major changes.
Some recent requests have included adding sleeves, creating a deep plunge neckline (which is pricey), lining a sheer bodice, or even changing the waistline shape. While some alterations are possible, others—like changing a waistline from a natural cut to a Basque style—would require rebuilding the entire bodice, which isn’t always feasible.
If your dress wasn’t purchased from my boutique, my alterations start at $800. I’ve noticed that dresses bought elsewhere often need significant changes, either for fit or design tweaks. So before you say yes to the dress, be sure to check if the alterations you want are actually doable—and within your budget!
If you need any advice before making a final decision, I’m always happy to help. 💕
Connie