You’ve Said Yes - Now What?

Your E&W Dress Journey, Demystified

You’ve done the big bit and chosen your dress! We’re thrilled, so proud and probably still talking about how good you looked in it. Honestly, you nailed it and thank you for supporting handmade in Wales!

Now begins the journey to the final fit and we’re here to make it smooth, clear, and as stress-free as possible. Below is your go-to guide for what happens next — what to expect, what’s normal, and what’s not worth stressing about.

PART ONE: THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Your Welcome Pack
Keep an eye on the post! A little something’s on its way. Inside: your fabric swatches, breakdown of your order, and a thank-you from us for supporting handmade in Wales. You're officially part of the E&W crew now.

Behind the Scenes
While you’re sipping coffee or planning your hen do, our studio team is checking over your order, sourcing your fabric, and prepping everything ready for cutting. Every dress is made in-house by hand. No factories, no mass production. Just us and your gown.

Your Collection Appointment
Roughly 3–4 months before your wedding, we’ll reach out to book you in for your collection appointment (usually 6–8 weeks before your day). This gives us time to get it all fitted and finished. If your timeline is tighter, don’t worry! We’ll adapt and let you know.

PART TWO: YOUR FIT OPTIONS (A QUICK RECAP)

You’ll have chosen your fit type when ordering and it’s confirmed in your paperwork, but here’s what it means in plain English:

• Pattern Tweak (Included)
  We tweak our base pattern to better suit your measurements. It’s more tailored than off-the-rack but still needs alterations. Make sure you book a seamstress early if you outsource, or let us know ASAP if you want to book our recommended seamstress.

• Standard Size (RTW)
  Made to a UK size (6–26). Great if you’re planning to change shape or love how the sample fit. Alterations will definitely be needed.

• Bespoke Fit (From £950)
  Fully tailored to your shape with multiple fittings and a toile. This is the only option that doesn't require additional alterations but will require 6-10 fittings at our studio with our designer hersef.

MEASUREMENTS VS. REALITY

Bridal fit is its own thing. Wedding dresses are built differently with different fabrics to high street.

Your measurements guide the build, but the fit comes together during tailoring. What one bride calls perfect might feel off to another. That’s normal. Your comfort, preferences, and the underwear you plan to wear all factor in - tell us early and we’ll guide you.

UNDERWEAR MATTERS (A LOT)

Low backs, plunges and sheer panels often need specialist solutions. If you’re team full bra or want shapewear, we’ll help you find options that work with your dress, or work the dress around your options! Let us know sooner rather than later. What you wear under your dress affects the fit more than you’d think.

ALTERATIONS – YES, THEY’RE ALWAYS NEEDED

Unless you went full bespoke, your dress will need tweaking. That’s the beauty of made-to-order, it’s sculpted to you at the end.

Our recommended seamstress works from within our studio but is independent - she books up fast, especially in peak season. We recommend booking her as soon as possible after ordering. You’re welcome to use your own tailor, but we can’t guarantee results outside of our studio.

Typical alterations include:

• Hemming

• Taking in bust/waist/hip seams

• Strap adjustments

• Adding a wrist loop for dancing

Prices typically start at £150–£300. Expect 3–5 fittings.

THE FINAL FIT IS A PROCESS

Don’t panic if it doesn’t feel perfect straight away. Your final fit is achieved through alterations. That’s the beauty of it - every dress becomes totally individual. If you’re worried, just ask. We’ve done this hundreds of times.

PART THREE: EXTRA TIPS FROM TEAM E&W

✨ Our top tips for the smoothest ride:

• Book hair and makeup trials early — bring your accessories with you. We offer 10% off online accessories for all E&W brides (use code: EANDWBRIDE).

• Want that dreamy hanger shot? Ask us about our branded gold & wood hangers — they’re gorgeous in your photos.

• Pack a mini dress kit for the big day: baby wipes, white chalk, fashion tape, sewing kit, stain remover, safety pins. Thank us later.

• Got pockets? Use them. Lip balm, Polaroid, tissue, or a dog treat. Priorities.

• Ask us about our Dress Care Package — for after the big day. It includes everything you need to clean and store your gown long-term in one of our branded boxes.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Oatt is coming.
For the wedding party and beyond, our sister brand Oatt is launching soon. Think modern, rewearable pieces for your bridesmaids, guests, and honeymoon wardrobe. Sustainable, stylish, and designed to last longer than your wedding hangover.

NEED HELP?

No question is too small, too weird, or too last-minute. We’re here to make this easy. Call the studio or drop us a line anytime.

You’ve got this — and we’ve got you. 🖤
The E&W Team