FAQ

FAQ - Discover Helpful Information About Dressmaking, Alterations & Sewing

When does the fittings process star and when should I book it?

As early as possible.  Once alterations have been discussed, dates are selected to fit in with your schedule. 

At the first fitting, I will provide you with a quote.  If you decide to proceed, I require a 25% deposit [prior to starting work on your dress]. The balance is to be paid on collection of your completed garment.  You are welcome to make instalment payments.

I accept bank transfer and cash. FAQ.

Once work has been started, the 25% deposit paid at confirmation that I am to proceed is not refundable. 

If I have not started working on your dress, all monies will be refunded.

Please find the current contact details located on our Contact Page here.

Sure. Due to the fact that we are a small business with myself as the main operator, I can get busy and may not always be able to take your call.

If you cannot reach me on the phone, please leave a message or email me and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

An appointment is crucial, as we may not be available for walk-in customers. To save you from any disappointment, we ask that you contact us prior to visiting our studio.

The required time varies based on the intricacy of your gown and the alterations needed. To ensure everything is perfect, we advise brides to schedule their first fitting a minimum of six weeks before the wedding.

Yes. A proper fitting and garment inspection are required to accurately estimate your alteration costs.

Yes, we can accommodate urgent alterations. The exact timeframe depends on the garment and can only be determined once we’ve completed an initial fitting. We therefore take on urgent work only when our schedule allows and when we are certain it can be finished on time. You can learn more about our urgent services in the article below.

Please contact us as soon as possible. We may be able to cancel your alteration under our Terms of Service and transfer part of the cost to your new dress.

How much do bridal alterations cost?

The price varies depending on the work needing to be done. 

For example, a hem can be just one (1) layer or up to five (5) layers.

The rate of difficulty and skill needed due to the type or material being sewn, as well as the quantity of work needing to be done, naturally affects the price.

A dress with five (5) layers may have as the top layer embroidered tulle with crinoline.  If shortening, the crinoline has to be unpicked, repositioned and resewn.

If there is a lot of handwork to do, for example, beading, embroidery, removal, and reapplication of appliqués or a bustle to be worked on that obviously costs more. FAQ.

Yes, I do many changes to a design for a customer. One aspect to keep in mind is that the fit and appearance of the gown is paramount.  The goal is to make the garment emphasise lovely aspects of your body and your gown.

When you come for your first appointment, I cover all aspects of the design with you and explain what we can and cannot do before you make any decisions.

Changes can include:

  • Off the shoulder
  • Sleeves added or taken off
  • Lengthening your train
  • Adding a train

Adding lace appliqués, beading or buttons.

Usually an hour for your first fitting.  Thereafter, half an hour to one hour check aspects of your alterations and clarify progress.

The time taken to do alterations to your wedding dress depends on the amount of work that needs to be done. 

A dress may only take two (2) fittings but in most cases, three (3) to four (4).

I always recommend starting the alteration process three (3) to five (5) months in advance.  My goal is to have the garment ready three (3) weeks prior to your wedding date.

Alterations for Brides are limited to two (2) each per month.

Please contact me when you are in possession of your gown to set aside the appropriate time needed for the alteration. FAQ.

That depends on the alteration.  Usually three (3) to four (4) fittings. FAQ.

It may sound obvious but make sure you don’t forget your shoes.

You will also need to have the undergarments that you will wear on the day.  It surprisingly makes a significant difference should you be wearing a bra that will not be worn on your wedding day. FAQ.

Our expertise lies in bridal and dress alterations, ensuring every piece fits beautifully and feels just right. In addition, we offer a comprehensive selection of alteration services such as invisible mending, tailoring for suits and shirts, adjustments to pants and jeans, coat alterations, clothing repairs, and much more. FAQ.

Obtaining an accurate quote for your wedding dress alterations requires seeing the gown in person, assessing how it fits your body, and understanding your specific needs. For this reason, it is neither possible nor responsible for a professional seamstress to provide a genuine quotation online or over the phone.

Be cautious of anyone who offers a price without a proper fitting or viewing of your dress. The easiest or cheapest option is not always the right one – and may end up costing you more in the long run. FAQ.

We adore animals—especially dogs and bunnies. However, unless it’s a guide dog or medical support animal, we generally ask customers not to bring pets. That said, we understand that every situation is unique, and exceptions can sometimes be made. FAQ.

Yes, this is possible; however, we highly encourage you to attend your pickup session so you can try on the garment and confirm the fit before it leaves our studio.

If a representative will be collecting it for you, please complete and sign the “Pick Up Nomination and Waiver Form” and return it via email. Your nominee must bring a form of ID that matches the name provided on the form. FAQ.

Absolutely no issue.  You will need to lose the weight and remain stable by the second fitting.  Should alterations need to be redone due to a change in your size a second time, there will be an extra fee for this. FAQ.

FAQ - Need More Help?

Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

I’d love to talk through your alteration ideas and requirements. Please don’t hesitate to call or leave a message or any other FAQ.
Customer Support

(07) 4517 0000

Email Support

info@joanneholland.com.au

FAQ - Joanne Holland

We blend old-school elegance and handcrafted expertise with the latest in sewing and haberdashery technology.

Our Values

Dedicated To Ensuring Quality For All.

With a blend of skilled craftsmanship and warm, personalised service, we ensure every client feels heard, valued, and beautifully fitted.

From subtle adjustments to complete redesigns, we tailor each garment to enhance your comfort, confidence, and individual style—because the perfect fit is more than a measurement; it’s a feeling.