I provide expert fitting, alterations, and repairs on all wedding gowns, including new, heirloom, sample, and pre-owned. I work with lace, beading, feathers, leather, delicate fabrics, silk satin, and more. No alteration is too big, no adjustment too small. I especially enjoy working with heirloom and vintage gowns, including appropriate repairs, re-sizing, and re-styling. I pay great attention to detail, fit, and proportion, and believe that the alteration isn't done until you are satisfied. I have decades of experience fitting all sorts of clothes to all sorts of bodies, and enjoy the collaborative experience of making every bride look her most beautiful.
I have created hundreds of bustles, no two exactly the same, and always customize the look of your gown to your taste and style.
Alteration costs average from $600 to $900, depending on the style and dress materials, and how much labor is required. I do not have a flat fee, and final costs do vary widely. Plan to have your initial fitting two to three months in advance of your wedding date.
I also make custom designed veils, which I will be happy to discuss with you at any fitting. Prices for veils start at $150.
Please contact me to make an appointment, it's never too soon!
Schedule Appointment
I provide a half-hour consultation and detailed estimate for a $45 fee, applicable to the cost of your alterations.
Thank you Notes
“Dear Kirsten,
Thank you for doing a wonderful job with my wedding dress and cape! Both turned out amazing thank to your expert skills and keen eye, and I really appreciate your thoughtful craftsmanship.”
“Dear Kirsten,
I can’t thank you enough for your help and talent in making my dream a reality! Being able to wear my mother’s wedding dress on my own wedding day felt unbelievably special. As you had reassured me, the fit of the dress was perfect on the big day and I easily danced the night away. You’re simply amazing! ”
“Thank you so much for helping me add such a special touch to my wedding. I’m so happy to wear the dress my grandmother made and my mother wore. You’ve been a pleasure to work with. Thank you!”
“Kirsten,
Thank you so much for creating the perfect fit for my wedding dress. You did a fantastic job and I got so many compliments on the dress. I really appreciate you working with my schedule to get it done in July and for making me the most beautiful bride.”
“
Photos
A few examples of my work, both before and after, and wedding day.
About Me
I first learned to sew at age nine. I started sewing professionally in college with an internship at a local summer Shakespeare festival, and have been sewing professionally ever since. I opened my own studio in 1999 and have been happily working with brides since then. I have an undergraduate degree in Theater Arts, and an MFA in Costume Design from NYU Tisch School of the Arts. I worked for years in theatrical costume shops, and continue to work as a theatrical dresser, mostly with the San Francisco Opera.
Because I work exclusively with bridal and special occasion, I have acquired deep knowledge, experience, and skill in this area.