How much time does it take for the dress to be ready?
In order to deliver the most high-quality gown to you, we ask that you contact us no later than six months before the date of your wedding. Because each gown is custom-made and requires much care, we want to make sure that we have enough time to complete fittings as needed to get the gown exactly as you like it. We always aim to deliver the gown one month before your wedding.
If you have a rush order, please call, as we will consider those on a case-by-case basis.
What do I need to bring to my consultation meeting?
At our very first meeting we will be discussing what you want in a gown, so bring your inspiration! Inspiration may come from a photo of a wedding gown, but it may be the drape of a sleeve, the openness of a neckline or a detail like embroidery or color. Before our meeting you should look through magazines, catalogues or websites like Pinterest to find inspiration photos. But inspiration may even come from your closet! If you have a dress that you love, makes you look and feel great, please bring it. Even if it is not quite right, finding out what makes you feel great helps us find your personal unique style.
If you have a vintage gown that you would like to alter or remake, bring it so that Fermata Designs can assess if the fabric is strong enough to be reworked. We will also ask you to try on the gown, so that we can see what alterations may be needed for a proper fit. If you would like to use the vintage gown as inspiration, we would still love to see it in person. Elements of a vintage gown may be used in a fully custom gown, so it is nice to see what buttons and trims are available.
What should I wear to my measurement meeting?
Once you have decided to work with Fermata Designs, we will have another one on one meeting to further discuss design ideas. At that meeting we will take your measurements. It is best to wear clothing that fits close to the body, so that we can get the most accurate measurements possible. Another good idea is to wear undergarments that you plan to wear with your wedding gown. If you plan to wear a shaper garment or push up bra, wear these to the measurement meeting because they will affect your overall measurements. Don’t know what a shaper garment is? Have no idea what will look best under your gown? Don’t worry, we can answer these questions at this meeting. Because we are making a custom gown specifically for you, minor changes in your size can be accounted for later in the process.
I plan to lose weight before my wedding. Will my dress still fit?
Simply, yes! A Fermata gown is custom made for you. If your body changes during the process, we can change the dress. We recommend trying on your finished gown two weeks before your wedding day to make sure the fit is still perfect. If you have any problems with the fit, Fermata designs will fix it, at no extra charge. Breathe easy!
What about the care and cleaning of my dress?
We are always glad to answer questions about the care and cleaning of your custom gown, before or after the big day. All Fermata Designs garments are dry cleanable, and we always recommend an eco-friendly option, such as CO2 cleaning. We can help you find a cleaner in your area, or check out nodryclean.com or igreenclean.org