Couture Bridal and Formal Wear
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FAQs

Beauty by Design is a positive solution to an ethical dilemma. Today there are many places to shop for a wedding gown with few options to purchase one which is made ethically. All of our products are individually handmade and most are made with sustainable or natural materials.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


WHAT IS THE PRICE RANGE OF YOUR CUSTOM GOWNS?

The gowns we design and create generally range from $2,000 to $6,000 depending on the level of complexity and the materials chosen to use.

What is the price range of alterations?

The price range for wedding dress alterations is typically around $500 to $1000 for overall alterations including fit, hem, bustle, and final press and steam. For other formal dresses such as bridesmaids, mother’s of bride/groom, and prom dresses the price range is generally around $150 to $350.

I can give you an exact quote when I see you in the dress at your fitting. Check out our alterations page for more information.

Do I need an appointment?

Yes, we are by appointment only. You can call us or book online for an alterations fitting or custom design consultation appointment..

How far in advance should I Schedule An Appointment?

For Custom Designs:

For custom wedding gowns, we prefer 6 to 12 months before the wedding date to get the process started. For other formal wear such as prom gowns and mother’s gowns, we prefer at least 4 to 6 months before the event date.

For Alterations:

Wedding dress alterations, we prefer 4 to 6 months. For other formal wear alterations, we prefer 2 to 3 months.

I need a dress done in less time than you recommend. Are you able to fit me in?

There is no guarantee that we are able to have the capacity to complete the work in less time than we recommend, but it is possible. If we are able to take on the project there is a rush fee of 20% of the total price for work with less than 4 months turnaround and 30% for work with less than 2 months turnaround.

What do I need to bring with to my fitting appointments?

To get a proper fit it is best to bring the shoes that you will wear with your dress and any under garments such as a bra, shapewear, or crinoline slip. You are welcome to bring any jewelry and accessories to try on with your gown, especially your veil.

You are welcome to bring your closest friends and family members, especially for the final fitting.

Can you design a dress for me from scratch?

Yes! Have a specific design in mind that you can not find anywhere? Deborah will work with you to create a fully custom, one of a kind dress made just for you! We do not copy other designers' work, but would use it for inspiration. Learn more on the Custom Process page.

Are you able to take a vintage or used wedding dress and turn it into something else?

Yes! We love to do wedding dress up-cycling projects! Want major changes? No problem, we have no creative limit! Most commonly we repurpose wedding dresses into rehearsal dinner dresses and reception dresses. We have also turned wedding dresses into getting ready robes, flower girls dresses, baptismal dresses, garters, ring bearer pillows, Christmas stockings, and more!

Dresses must be clean before starting work. Come in for a consultation, and we will explore the options of what all can be done.

Will you alter my dress from another store?

Yes! We are equipped to do all kinds of alterations on bridal and formal wear. Dresses must be clean before doing alterations. Want major changes? No problem, we have no creative limit! Remember to bring the exact shoes and undergarments you will be wearing with your dress in order to get a proper fit.

Do you sell dresses off the rack?

No, we do not an have inventory of dresses to choose from. All of the gowns from Beauty by Design are one of a kind, custom designed and made just for each client. We have a number of gowns on a rack and a handful on mannequins, to show examples of Deborah’s designs.