Elegant Designs By Candice Louise
About
Since 2005, I have been designing and creating wedding gowns, as well as altering them. One of my favorites is to re-create an older gown into a more modern one! From the littlest flowergirl, to the Grandmother's, and everyone inbetween, Let me help make your dress dreams come true!
www.elegantdesignsbycandicelouise.com
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
At our initial meeting, we go over needs; client will put on gown with shoes and any specific undergarments she plans to wear with it. Adjustments will be made and marked. An estimate will be given, as well as a date set up for 2nd fitting. Usually, only 2 fittings are necessary, but depending on the amount of work needed, sometimes more fittings will be necessary. Most alterations require atleast 4-6 weeks.
When creating a new gown, the initial meeting will involve going over all the details of the brides vision, i.e., designs, fabrics, embellishments, measurements, dates, cost. I will spend a few days figuring up an estimate. The client can choose to accept the estimate and we will move forward with the project, or not. I generally require up to 6 months for creating a new gown, sometimes less, depending on the work involved.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been self-taught since learning to sew in high school (back when they still taught home-ec in schools!). Since learning to sew at a young age, my skills have advanced through occassional specialty classes, but, again, I am mostly self taught.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing depends largely on what needs to be done Most of the time, wedding gown alterations will fall between $150 - $300. Creating a gown is also completely dependent on what is involved in creating the gown. I have made gowns for as little as $200 and as much as $3500.
How did you get started in this business?
How did I get started in this business? This is a long story that I won't get into here, but I will say it involved a pushy MOB, a lot of research and knocking on doors, a big leap of faith (with quite a bit of praying involved), but mostly, a very loving and supportive husband!
What types of customers have you worked with?
The vast majority of my brides have been very sweet and easy to work with. I have found the term, 'bridezilla', to be largely a myth.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Recently, my son was married. I was blessed to be able to make the wedding gown for his lovely bride. It was the gown of her dreams, and I was quite challenged to make it - but it turned out perfectly! Simply exquisite!
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Working on wedding gowns is a specialty. Not all seamstresses can, or should, work on them. Make sure your seamstress has experience wowrking on wedding gowns!
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Do not be shy about making sure you and your seamstress are on the same page! Make sure she understands exactly what you want. If you are not comfortable with a seamstress you meet with, never feel uncomfortable about seeking a second opinion. A good seamstress will tell you if something cannot be done, and should be able to explain why. Ask for references! A good seamstress will be happy to give you some.