The Alterations Game

It may come as no shock to learn that one of the most in-demand wedding suppliers are…..seamstresses. Yes, there is increasing demand for alterations and it doesn’t look like it’s getting any better.

So why is this happening? Well, our good oul pal Covid strikes again. Between the backlog of weddings and this years record number of weddings, this has put pressure on alterations business / seamstresses. Marry that with so many needing a higher level of alterations, for example, some that were winter weddings moved to spring/summer and therefore needed their dress adapted to be lighter. Plus, and this is one that we would never think of…..there is an increase in brides opting for a second dress on the evening of the wedding….and of course that may need to be adjusted for a tailored fit too. Also, and don’t shoot the messenger…as there has been so many weddings that might have bought their dress pre-covid and then only getting married now, for many brides, their original size order may be different to what it was 2-3 years ago. Some went hell for leather getting fitter and their shape has completely changed or some (like me) may have slowed down their quest for maintaining their original weight or shape or even went ahead and had a baby! This means that either the dress may need to be taken in to a higher extent or made more roomy. Overall, it’s a bit mad but there’s a few things you can do to ensure you are not left high and dry.

Many leave their alterations booking to once they get the dress which might be only a few weeks out from the wedding. Book a slot good and early. Some independent seamstresses might tell you there’s no need to book so early and just get in touch closer to the time….that’s all well and good but who knows how busy she might get if everyone is being dealt on a first come first served basis. Try and secure a date to the best of your ability.
If your bridal shop has a list of preferred suppliers, go to them as there is no bridal shop that would recommend anyone that would not be familiar with the dresses they stock.
Don’t be afraid to use the likes of ZipYard etc. They have a fully qualified team that do wedding dresses every other day of the week and they have plenty of staff and availability. Talk to your bridal boutique for anything that you may need to flag with them but they will be well used to the intricacies of the bridal gown.

And finally, I put the ask out to you guys on who you would all recommend and here is the list….I will continue to update when I hear more.

Recommendations: (Please note, it is always best to ask your bridal boutique for their own recommendation if they have one).

ZipYard – Nationwide

Linda Sloane – Dublin / Donegal

Pat Turner – Tralee – 0667126932

The Alterations Centre – Dublin

Mary Flynn – Tipperary

House of Marie – Cobh Cork

Alter Eva – Galway

Edita – Kilkenny

All About You – Roscommon

Studio Alma – Ennis