Your custom made wedding dress journey starts here...
Made in Wellington, my custom made wedding dress service takes you from initial design to final product. Whether you have a vision in mind for your wedding dress or no idea where to start, I will help guide you through the process, working one-on-one, giving you full say in customising the smallest of details and making designing your wedding dress a truly unique experience.
The end result is a completely custom look and tailored fit to make you feel your confident, beautiful self on your wedding day. It is best to allow 3 to 6 months for this process. However I can sometimes accommodate short notice requests, so don't hesitate to contact me closer to your wedding date.
Initial Consultation - I offer a free, no obligation initial consultation where we can chat about your wedding day, what you have in mind for your wedding dress, and finer details.
Designs - I then come up with a range of design concepts for you and a final sketch that best suits your body shape and aesthetic.
Fabrics - I have a huge range of fabrics to choose from and depending what you are after can source something unique for you.
What are the custom steps?
Measure up:
We take all your measurements to begin creating your dream wedding dress. During this consult we will also look at fabrics. I have a huge range of fabrics and laces for you to choose from and can also source something unique for you depending on what you are after.
First fitting:
At the first fitting we will try a calico mock up of your design from your custom pattern. At this stage we will have an idea of how your design will look and we can refine any details such as the neckline and sleeve.
Second fitting:
At this fitting you will be able to try on your wedding dress in your chosen fabrics. Without any finishings, the shell of the dress will give us an idea of the finished product while still allowing minor changes to be made to fit and style.
Third fitting:
At this fitting, aside from last minute adjustments and hemming, your dress will be complete. This will determine whether another fitting is required.
Final fitting and pickup:
The most exciting fitting! You will be able to try on your finished wedding dress and take it home with you the same day in a garment bag.
Having your wedding dress custom made is often assumed to be the more expensive option however I pride myself on providing one of a kind wedding dresses at a more affordable price than many off the rack options.
Custom wedding dress pricing generally starts from $1,500 up to $5,000 depending on style and complexity of design. I charge an hourly labour rate and fabric costs separately (plus gst) which means I can help a lot of brides stick to a budget. If you have a set budget please get in touch to discuss options.
Once your design is finalised, a quote will be sent. Once you’ve accepted the quote, an invoice will be sent for 50% of the total price.
No extra costs for alterations and adjustments - this is all part of the process and included along the way for the perfect final fit.
"I assumed that bespoke dressmaking would be more expensive than purchasing from a store, however this option turned out to be very reasonable"
- Hilary
As I have limited bespoke places per season, your deposit confirms your booking and work on your dream dress can begin. Quotes are valid for one month due to demand and limited spaces.
I have always loved to sew and had a particular passion for bridal and made to measure. I studied at NZ Institute of Fashion Technology and interned with various NZ designers before working for a brief period in the fast fashion industry. This inspired me to create my own brand after seeing first-hand the effect the fashion industry is having on our environment. At the same time, the needs of each individual are too often not addressed.
No one body is the same, which is why I strongly believe in having your garment ‘made to measure'. The fit of a garment is crucial to your comfort and confidence and I want to help make you feel your beautiful self.
With the utmost care, skill and intention I work to bring your ideas to life. Each piece is bespoke - one of a kind, handmade especially for you in my Wellington-based studio. I strongly believe that a custom made gown doesn't have to cost the earth and I enjoy helping clients stick to a budget and get exactly what they want from their dream piece.
This is my eighth year in business. I now specialise mainly in custom bridal, having seen a gap in the market for unique, custom-made wedding gowns that are made to fit and don't have to cost the earth.
I love the excitement and design challenges that each new client brings and love being such a huge part of your big day.
Whether you have no idea where to begin or know exactly what you want, let’s chat! For more information or an initial quote, please get in touch. I’d love to hear from you.
