When should I book in?

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It is advisable to book in for your wedding dress alterations as soon as you have bought your dress and have a wedding date! Your first fitting takes place around 10-12 weeks before the big day, with final fittings arranged up to 2-4 weeks before the wedding date. We realise not all weddings are planned years in advance so if you are looking for a quick turnaround please do get in touch.

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Can I arrange out of hours appointments?

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Appointments can be made Monday - Saturday, 8am-12pm. Please note that weekend slots can be very booked up during our peak season March - October so be advised to book ahead. 

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How many fittings will I need?

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Dresses usually require around three fittings, depending on the complexity of the alterations:

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First fitting (30-45mins):

This is the time for us to get to know each other! We can chat through what alterations are required and discuss the best way to achieve the perfect fit.

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Second fitting (20-30 mins):

This is a "work in progress" fitting - second fittings are usually required when more complex alterations are needed and to ensure we are happy with the fit of the dress before finalising the work. Any lace or beadwork will be unpicked at this stage and adjustments can still be made before the gown is finished.

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Final fitting (20-30 mins):

Your dress is finished, ready to be tried on and taken away with you! It is really important to us that you feel confident and comfortable in your bridal gown so at this appointment we will help you to prepare for the big day with advice on moving around and dressing on the day.

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The correct underwear and shoes MUST be brought to all appointments as this can affect alterations and may result in extra fittings. 

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What underwear should I wear to my appointment?

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Nude, seamless underwear is advised if possible. If your wedding dress is backless we have bust cups at the studio for you to try on with your dress to provide support.  Dresses can be adapted at the back and sides to cover a strapless bra if required.

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I’m planning to lose some weight before the wedding – how will this affect the process?

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Do let us know if you’re planning to lose weight, as we can schedule your fittings over a shorter time frame than usual. Small changes can still be made to the dress at your second fitting, but it's much more difficult to make changes once the dress is completed.

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Where is the studio?

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We are located in the vibrant market town of Otley, West Yorkshire.  The address for the studio is Betty Lavinia, Suite 2, First Floor, 2 Boroughgate, Otley, West Yorkshire LS21 3AL. The studio entrance is located in Bay Horse Court which is accessed via the passageway next to the Bay Horse Inn. Please call when you arrive at Bay Horse Court and we can bring you up to the studio. Please note that the studio is on the first floor of the building and there are stairs to access this. If you require any additional support for access please do let us know and we would be happy to allow extra time and assistance for your appointment. 

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Otley has a wealth of shops, cafes, restaurants and walks for you to enjoy visiting after attending appointments.  

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Is there parking?

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The closest car park is Courthouse Street car park which charges a small cash/card payment fee.  There is also lots of on street and paid car parks in Otley town centre and 4 hours free parking at Sainsbury's which is a 5-10 min walk away.    

A note on punctuality: Fittings usually run back-to-back so please do try to arrive on time. It may not be possible to extend your appointment if another bride is due directly after you.

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Can I bring family and friends along?

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Guests are welcome, however the studio space is an intimate, friendly space which can seem overcrowded with too many people! We ask brides to please limit guests to a maximum of 2 extra people.  Children are also welcome but please bear in mind this is a working studio and not specifically child friendly. If you do bring children with you, we advise you to bring childcare as well. 

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How much do alterations cost?

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Every wedding gown, like every bride, is different and the nature and cost of bridal alterations can vary. We charge per alteration rather than a package price.  Please do get in touch if you would like a rough quote. Prices can vary considerably depending on the complexity of the work and how many alterations are required to achieve the perfect fit.   

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How do I pay?

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A deposit of £50 is paid at the first fitting with the balance due at the final fitting. Payment can be made by either cash or card.