An experience all your own
This process leaves room—for questions, for growth, for the honest shifts that happen when life is unfolding alongside design. You won’t be left behind if your vision changes. You’ll be met with clarity and calm, and guided gently toward something even truer.
Curious minds are always welcome. These are some of the most common things you may wonder before we begin.
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I love the idea of a custom gown, but I’m nervous about committing without seeing the final design. How does that work?
Totally understandable. We start with a conversation and a rough concept—then refine it together. You’ll see sketches, fabric swatches, and in-progress updates. The design has room to evolve, and you’ll be part of every key decision. My role is to guide you with honesty and care so that by the time your dress is finished, it already feels like you.
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What if I don’t know exactly what I want?
You don’t have to. In fact, many of my brides begin with a feeling more than a fully-formed vision. I’ll help translate that feeling into something beautiful and wearable, drawing from your inspiration, your preferences, and your personality to find what will flatter you best. I listen closely and use my intuition to help you uncover what feels most like you.
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Can changes be made after we start?
Absolutely. One of the most special parts of working with me is the freedom to let your design evolve. We’re not locked into a static plan. As your ideas develop or we see how certain elements look in person, we adjust. It’s all part of the creative process—and I believe that flexibility is a strength, not a flaw.
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What makes your gowns different?
My focus is on thoughtful design, slow craftsmanship, and natural materials. I work primarily with high-quality, sustainable fabrics—often natural fibers that are rare in the bridal industry. My aesthetic leans timeless and textural, with inspiration from vintage couture and surface design. But above all, my work is about you—your story, your comfort, and how you want to feel.
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How do I get started?
Start by reaching out. We’ll schedule a consultation to talk through your ideas, your needs, and your timeline. No pressure—just a conversation. From there, we’ll begin shaping something that feels honest, personal, and beautifully your own.
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What is the typical investment for a custom gown or garment?
Custom work is inherently personal, and the investment reflects not only the materials and craftsmanship but the time, care, and creative partnership that shapes each piece.
Most full custom gowns begin at $4,000, with rehearsal or reception looks starting closer to $2,000. Final cost is determined by design complexity, fabrication, and timeline—but each quote is crafted with transparency and care. Payment plans are always available, and you’ll receive clear estimates before we begin. -
Isn’t buying from a store simpler or safer than going custom?
It might seem that way—but often, it's more complicated than it appears.
Off-the-rack or made-to-order dresses are designed to fit the widest possible audience. That means most gowns require costly alterations, offer limited fabric or design flexibility, and come with firm policies that can leave little room for support once the transaction is complete.
Custom design is different. It’s collaborative from the start. Every detail is tailored to your proportions, your preferences, and your pace. You’re not left to figure things out on your own—you have direct access to an experienced Master Tailor with a background in luxury bridal and couture construction, someone who knows how to guide, adjust, and finesse your vision into something extraordinary.
It’s not about taking a bigger risk—it’s about having a more thoughtful experience, where every choice is made with you in mind.
For more on this, see The Daily Drape
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How long does it take to complete a custom piece?
Custom pieces are made slowly, intentionally—designed to honor the moment they’re meant for.
Most gowns require a 6–9 month lead time, though certain projects may need more or less time depending on detail and season. I also reserve a small number of rush slots for time-sensitive commissions. Your initial call is the best place to explore your timeline and find a rhythm that works for us both. -
Can the process really be done virtually?
Yes—and it’s more connected than you might imagine.
After your design fee is submitted, I’ll send a curated swatch box with a measuring tape and some materials to ground our next steps. From there, we schedule a video call where I walk you through taking measurements, discuss your ideas in depth, and get a real sense of your personality. These conversations are often where the magic begins—those small sparks of insight that shape something truly yours.
Even from across the world, we’ll work closely every step of the way. -
Is a custom gown really worth the investment?
Only you can answer that—but here’s what I can tell you:
This process isn’t just about the dress. It’s about being seen. Heard. Made for. It’s about creating something that reflects you—not a trend, not a showroom sample, but a garment layered with intention and memory.
Custom means your ideas matter. Your body is honored. Your preferences guide the design from start to finish.
For many of my clients, this is the first time they’ve felt celebrated in this way—not just on the wedding day, but in the becoming of it. -
Can I really design my dress remotely? What if I’m nervous about the fit?
Absolutely—your gown is custom not just in silhouette, but in how we build it together. Whether you’re across the country or just outside Omaha, you’ll receive a thoughtfully prepared swatch + measuring kit and a dedicated video call where I guide you through every measurement personally. We take the time to ensure the design suits your proportions and preferences—not just your numbers.
My background as a Master Tailor in New York City means I’ve worked with every body type and fabric imaginable, and I know where to refine beyond the tape measure. This level of care results in gowns that feel as natural as a second skin—because they’re made just for you.
If you’re craving extra assurance, we also offer optional fly-in fittings at the studio for key milestones in the process. Whether fully remote or part-travel, the process is designed to feel personal, unrushed, and deeply collaborative.
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How long does the process take from start to finish?
Custom work requires time—and that’s part of its magic. On average, the process takes 4–6 months, though timelines can vary depending on design complexity, fabric availability, and your event date. Rush timelines may be possible, but are considered case by case.
The timeline begins once your design fee is submitted and your place is held in the production calendar. From there, we move through collaborative sketching, fabric selection, and fitting stages with intention—not haste—so your gown is complete with both care and clarity.
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What if I change my mind or want to adjust the design partway through?
Design is not always a straight line. While we begin with a clear concept, there’s space built into the process for you to evolve—within reason and with expert guidance.
If your vision shifts, I’ll help recalibrate with compassion and clarity. You're not left navigating alone or boxed into a rigid contract. That’s one of the quiet luxuries of working directly with an artisan: you have a steady hand to help you through the natural nerves, questions, and growth that often accompany this kind of investment.