Wedding Dress Care: Cleaning, Preservation, and Alterations
Bridal and Wedding Gown Cleaning and Preservation
Why Cleaning and Preservation Matter
After your wedding day, your gown may have stains, perspiration, or spills that are invisible but can cause discoloration over time. Professional cleaning and preservation ensure your gown remains beautiful for years to come. Preservation involves hand-cleaning your gown to remove stains and sealing it in acid-free materials to prevent yellowing or damage.
Our Process
- Consultation: Evaluate your gown’s condition, noting stains, tears, or delicate details like beads and lace.
- Hand Cleaning: Each gown is treated individually to ensure the utmost care. Delicate materials are protected throughout the process.
- Anti-Sugar Stain Treatment: Removes unseen stains from sugar, salt, and acids that can cause long-term discoloration.
- Inspection: Brides can inspect their gown before it’s preserved.
- Preservation: The gown is layered with acid-free tissue, folded, and stored in a museum-quality archival chest to protect against light, dust, and humidity.
Wedding Dress Alterations
It’s rare to find a wedding dress that fits perfectly off the rack. Alterations transform a beautiful dress into your perfect dress. Here’s what you need to know about the process:
Common Alterations
- Hemming: Adjust the length to match your height and shoes.
- Taking In or Letting Out: Adjust the fit of the bodice or skirt for comfort and style.
- Bustle: Add hooks or buttons to lift the train for dancing.
- Straps and Necklines: Customize to suit your preferences.
Budgeting for Alterations
The cost of alterations can range from $300 to $800, depending on the complexity of the work. Heavily beaded dresses or intricate lace designs may require more time and expertise, increasing the cost.
Timeline
Schedule your first fitting 3–4 months before your wedding. Most brides need 2–3 fittings to ensure the dress fits perfectly.
