What to Expect When Commissioning a Custom Gown

Commissioning a custom gown is an exciting and deeply personal experience. It also can make you a little nervous. Unlike buying something off the rack, there’s not fancy store you can walk into, with thousands of dresses at your disposal to try on and see what you like best. However, what this process does allow you is a close collaboration with myself (or whichever designer you ultimately work with), where you are able to create a piece that is uniquely yours, that fits you like a glove, and that has everything on your wishlist, without having to compromise. Whether you’re dreaming of a gown for a wedding, gala, or special event, here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect when you choose to create something truly special with me as your designer.

1. Initial Consultation

Our journey together will always begin with an initial consultation. This is where I get to know you, your vision, and your needs. We’ll discuss:

  • The purpose of the gown (e.g., wedding, formal event, photoshoot).
  • Your style preferences, inspirations, and any specific details you’d like to include.
  • Fabric options, color palettes, and embellishments.
  • Budget and timeline expectations.

To prepare for this meeting, gather inspiration from photos, fabric swatches, or even a Pinterest board. The more you can share about your vision, the better we can bring it to life.

Once we have both determined that we wish to proceed in the design process, a $250 initial non-refundable deposit is required at this point.

2. Design Proposal

After the consultation, I’ll create a design proposal tailored to your preferences. This proposal typically includes:

  • Sketches of the gown.
  • A recommendation of fabric and any necessary embellishments.
  • An estimated timeline and breakdown of costs.

This step is collaborative. You’ll have the opportunity to provide feedback, request changes, and ensure the design aligns with your vision before we proceed.

Once the final design, fabric selections, and budget have been approved, a 50% deposit (less the $250 initial deposit) is required at this point.

3. Measurements and Fittings

Once the design is finalized, we’ll take precise measurements to ensure a perfect fit. This step is crucial for achieving a gown that flatters your body and feels comfortable to wear. If we are working on the design remotely, I can guide you through the process of taking your own measurements so that the final garment is a proper fit.

If you are local to the NWA area, you are more than welcome to schedule several fittings. I generally recommend the following, but again, these are not required:

First Fitting: The initial mock-up of your gown (often in muslin or other fabric) to test the fit and structure.

Second Fitting: Adjustments made to the actual gown fabric, focusing on details like seams, hems, and embellishments.

Final Fitting: Ensuring the gown fits perfectly and is ready for your special day.

 

4. Crafting Your Gown

The saying “this is where the magic happens” is a bit overused, but that is truly what this stage of the process feels like. Using the finalized design (or mock-up, if we are using one), I’ll carefully craft your gown with attention to every detail. Depending on the complexity of the design, this step can take several weeks or even months. I’ll keep you updated on progress at least every 2 – 3 weeks, and may share sneak peeks on my various social media platforms to build excitement.

5. The Final Reveal

The most exciting part of the process is, of course, the final reveal. This can happen one of two ways:

First, if you are local, we will arrange a time for you to come do the final try-on. At this stage, we’ll make any last-minute tweaks to ensure perfection, if needed (although at this point, it typically is not). If everything fits your vision and the design we agreed upon during your consultation, at this point the gown is yours to take home.

Alternatively, if you are not local, the gown will be shipped to you, fully-insured for the value of the gown, if, for any reason, the dress does not fit according to the measurements I was provided, recommendations on how to alter the gown and where you can take it for these alterations to be performed will be included in the shipment. (Please note: this is not typical, but is my way of ensuring that you are happy with your creation, no matter what!)

At this point, the final payment of 50% is due. If you are local, this can be paid when you come for the final try-on. If you are not local, payment is required prior to shipping your gown.

6. Post-Event Care

To help preserve your gown, I’ll provide care instructions for cleaning and storage. If you ever need adjustments or want to repurpose the gown for another occasion, I’m happy to assist (alteration, cleaning, or miscellaneous fees may apply.)

Commissioning a custom gown is a unique journey of creativity, collaboration, and craftsmanship that purchasing from a big box store (or even a bridal boutique) can’t always provide. As a result, the gown you will receive at the end of this process is so much more than just a gown—it’s a piece of art that tells your unique story.

If you’re ready to begin the process, I would love to chat with you. My contact information is detailed on the Contact page of my website.

Let’s create something unforgettable and completely, uniquely “you” together!