FAQ

When should I schedule my first fitting?

We recommend reaching out as soon as you purchase your dress — even before it arrives — so we can reserve your spot in our schedule.Alterations typically begin 8–10 weeks before your wedding, but because our calendar fills up quickly, it’s best to book your first fitting as early as possible.

How many fittings will I need?

Most brides will have 3–4 fittings from start to finish.
If your gown requires more customization — such as build‑ups, redesigns, sleeves, or extensive alterations — you can expect an average of 5 fittings to ensure every detail is perfect.

What should I bring to my fittings?

It’s essential to bring the exact wedding shoes you plan to wear, along with any bras, undergarments, or shapewear you’ll use with your gown.
Most dresses already include built‑in cups, and we can add more—or reduce them—if needed for the perfect shape.

Because these items directly affect the fit, changing them between appointments can dramatically alter your gown’s tailoring and may result in additional alteration charges.
Please bring all of these pieces to every fitting.

How long do alterations take?

We request a minimum of 6 weeks with your gown to complete alterations with the precision and care it deserves.
If you're working with a shorter timeline, we can often accommodate a rush service—as long as the fee and schedule are agreed upon in advance.

We’ve even worked with out‑of‑state brides in as little as 3 days, depending on the complexity of the gown and our availability.

Can you add customizations to my dress?

Absolutely — we love creating custom pieces! Some of our most common customizations include:

- Adding new sleeves
- Changing or reshaping the neckline
- Full size takedowns (reducing a gown by one or more sizes)
-Build‑ups for added structure or coverage
-Adding extra skirt layers for fullness or drama

While we can accommodate most requests, some highly time‑intensive projects may not fit within our current schedule.
If you have a specific customization in mind, please reach out so we can confirm availability.

What if my dress needs significant changes?

If your gown requires major alterations or redesign work, we recommend reaching out as early as possible to ensure we have space in our schedule.
Anything beyond simple fit adjustments will involve a higher alteration cost, additional sewing time, and likely more fittings.

To give us the time needed for detailed, high‑quality work, please plan to schedule your first appointment at least 12 weeks before your wedding—earlier if possible.

Do you work with all types of fabrics and designs?

Absolutely! We work with a wide range of fabrics and styles — from delicate silks to fully beaded laces.
Every season brings new materials and innovative gown designs, and occasionally a dress includes a construction element we’ve never seen before. In those cases, it may require a bit more problem‑solving and time, but we love the challenge.

We’re always excited to learn new techniques and explore the unique characteristics of each fabric. Your gown is in expert, creative hands!

Can you work with off‑the‑rack or sample gowns?

Absolutely! We work with off‑the‑rack and sample gowns all the time — they’re no different from the styles we regularly see in our shop.

Just keep in mind that sample gowns or off‑the‑rack purchases may need a little extra love to get them perfect for your day. When choosing one, be sure to check its condition and confirm that all components are present (such as buttons, appliqués, and beading).

If the gown is dirty or has been tried on frequently, we recommend having it cleaned before bringing it in for alterations.

How much do alterations cost?

At Hana’s Bridal, we offer a range of alteration services tailored to the complexity of your gown and the level of customization you’re looking for. Below is an overview of our alteration tiers to help you understand what to expect in terms of work and pricing.

(Standard Alterations | $500–$800)

Perfect for gowns that need simple adjustments to achieve a clean, beautiful fit.
Standard alterations typically include:
✔ Raising straps or shoulders
✔ Hemming gowns with low‑ to mid‑volume skirts (1–3 layers)
✔ Adding a bustle
✔ Minor shaping adjustments to improve overall fit

This tier is ideal for brides needing foundational alterations without major structural changes.

(Advanced Alterations | $800–$1,500)

For gowns that require more detailed work to refine the silhouette or adjust construction.
Advanced alterations may include:
✔ Taking in multiple sizes or reshaping darts and side seams
✔ Hemming gowns with 3+ layers or intricate, high‑volume hems
✔ Reshaping the bust for a more personalized fit
✔ Neckline changes
✔ Waist‑hem alterations (adjusting bodice length)

These services involve greater precision and expertise to maintain the gown’s integrity.

(Custom & Transformational Work | $1,500–$2,500+)

Designed for brides wanting significant customization or structural redesigns.
Custom alterations may include:
✔ Adding sleeves or creating a full build‑up
✔ Lining an unlined bodice for added coverage or support
✔ Adding or replacing skirt layers for more volume or movement
✔ Redesigning or reinventing parts of the gown
✔ Restoring or altering vintage gowns

Pricing in this tier begins at $1,500 and varies based on complexity, materials, and the extent of the transformation.

What if my weight changes before the wedding?

If you’re expecting weight changes—whether due to medication, lifestyle shifts, or intentional plans—we recommend waiting to begin alterations until your weight has stabilized.
If you’re intentionally gaining or losing weight, please aim to pause any size changes at least 6 weeks before the wedding so we can tailor your gown accurately.

Significant weight changes can impact the fit of your gown and may require additional alteration work and fees.

If your weight changes unexpectedly, don’t worry — we’ll make sure to carve out the time needed to adjust your dress so it fits beautifully.
If you’ve already picked up your gown, we suggest trying it on one week before the wedding to ensure the fit is still perfect.

Can you create a bustle for my dress?

Absolutely! We’ll work with you to design a bustle that complements your gown’s silhouette and matches your personal style preference.
A bustle is always optional, and you’re welcome to skip it if you prefer your train to stay down throughout your event.

Do you offer rush services?

Yes! We can often accommodate tight timelines. Rush fees apply to any gown that needs to be completed in under 6 weeks.
Our rush pricing is as follows:

• 6 weeks: $250
• 4 weeks: $300
• 2 weeks: $400
• 1 week: $500
• 3 days: $650
• 1 day: $750

Rush availability depends on our schedule and the complexity of your gown, so please reach out as soon as possible if you need expedited service.

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FAQ