Discover what to expect with wedding dress alterations at Ohana Bridal. Pricing $500–$1,000+, 3–4 month timeline, and in-house expert seamstress.
You’ve said yes to the dress—now it’s time to make it perfectly yours. At Ohana Bridal, we believe alterations are one of the most important steps in your bridal journey. This is where your gown is shaped to your body, ensuring you look and feel flawless on your big day.
Timeline: When to Start
We recommend beginning alterations 3–4 months before your wedding. This allows for multiple fittings and plenty of time for each adjustment. If your wedding is coming up quickly, we’ll do our best to accommodate, but early booking guarantees a stress-free experience.
Pricing: What to Expect
Bridal alterations at Ohana Bridal typically range from $500–$1,000+, depending on your gown’s construction and the work needed. Common services may include:
- Hemming multiple fabric layers (lace, satin, lining, tulle, etc.)
- Taking in or letting out bodices, straps, or sleeves
- Adding custom bustles to lift and secure your train
- Fine hand-sewing for lace, beadwork, or appliqué
Bridal alterations are a significant investment because gowns are complex, couture-level garments. The work is highly detailed, requiring precision and hours of skilled craftsmanship.
In-House Alterations with Suzanne’s Sewing Service
One of the benefits of shopping with Ohana Bridal is that we offer in-house alterations through Suzanne’s Sewing Service. Your gown never has to leave our boutique—ensuring security, convenience, and seamless communication between your stylist and seamstress. With over 40 years of bridal sewing experience, Suzanne brings expert care and attention to every gown.
The Fitting Process
Most brides can expect three fittings, but depending on the work needed, additional appointments may be required. A typical schedule looks like this:
- First Fitting: Assessment, pinning, and bustle planning
- Second Fitting: Adjustments revealed, fine-tuning details
- Final Fitting: Ensuring a flawless fit before your big day
Don’t forget to bring the shoes and undergarments you’ll wear on your wedding day. Even the smallest changes can affect your fit.
Common Misconceptions About Alterations
- “Why can’t it be done in one fitting?” Bridal gowns are highly structured with multiple layers. Each round of adjustments requires careful sewing, pressing, and sometimes reworking delicate beadwork or lace.
- “Why are alterations more expensive than tailoring regular clothes?” Wedding gowns are couture garments, often with boning, corsetry, and layers of specialty fabrics. Altering them is more like engineering than simple tailoring—it requires hours of skilled handwork.
- “My dress fits pretty well off the rack, do I still need alterations?” Almost always, yes. Even small adjustments in straps, hems, or bodice shaping can make a huge difference in how you look and feel on your big day.
The Final Result
The goal is simple: for you to feel comfortable, confident, and radiant. With Ohana Bridal and Suzanne’s Sewing Service working together, your gown will be transformed into a one-of-a-kind piece tailored just for you.
