Frequently Asked Questions
1 / What is your turnaround time for an alteration?
For Casual apparel, as well formal garments ( including wedding guests, prom dresses, bridesmaids, and dresses of the like) our turnaround time is typically about 4-6 weeks during peak bridal seasons. Requests under that timeframe may be granted depending on availability and subject to a rush fee. Please inquire about availability.
Bridal turnaround is dependent upon the bride’s timeline, fit and alterations needs, and various other factors.
2 / How long before the event should I book the appointment?
Wedding guests and bridesmaids should ideally book at least 5 weeks or so before the wedding. Follow-up fittings (and pick ups) book just as quickly as new fittings, and this will allow the best availability for scheduling your follow-ups given the 4-6 week turnaround time in the event further changes need to be made.
Brides should book their initial wedding dress fitting at least 3-4 months in advance. Keep in mind, more time should be allowed if you anticipate weight fluctuations or if the dress needs major resizing or other major changes.
3 / Can you take on a rush in less than the typical 4-6 week turnaround time? I need my dress in two weeks!
Rush requests can often be accommodated, for all clients (including brides), but must be requested and informed of date needed by before you book your fitting. We will do our very best to get you in, depending on availability, and to get your alterations done in time before your special event. However, this is subject to availability and a rush a fee. Please call or email before booking to be sure the accommodations can be made.
4 / Does the online booking fee count toward the alterations cost?
The booking fee covers the time we spend during the fitting and consultation. Here at Cynthia’s Atelier, we offer more than just alterations. We provide an elevated fitting experience which is in a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere a full-service experience. All concerns will be discussed, from shoe and accessories options to undergarments and all concerns regarding fit. We are not just seamstresses, we are fit specialists. And so, we strive to be sure you leave feeling confident about the decisions we agree on.
5 / But what if I still feel like something is a little off when I come back for my follow-up fitting?
During your follow-up fitting, we request that you not just pick up, but actually try on the dress and look over everything. Although we strive for perfection the first time around, our work is guaranteed and we are willing to continue to work on it until you are completely satisfied. At Cynthia’s Atelier, we strive for perfection, clean, even stitches, flattering fit, and quality craftsmanship. If you have any questions or areas of concern, please point them out during the appointment and we will be happy to address them!
6 / I booked for one dress, but I’ve decided afterward that would like to bring more!
We would be happy to fit you for all your garments! Please just notify us in advance if you plan to bring more than you indicated in your initial fitting so that we can allot for the appropriate amount of time. We do our best to never double-book clients so that you have our undivided attention during your private fitting, and so we would like to ensure you have the appropriate amount of time for everything you want to bring!
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For all Casual items, up to 6 garments may be fitted during your single session.
For formal items, up to 2 gowns may be brought for each session.
For bridal, one wedding gown may be brought for each session. If you would like to discuss other bridal-related garments (like bachelorette, bridal shower, honeymoon, rehearsal dinner, etc), you may either book an additional appointment online or reach out via email and we’ll be glad to assist!
7 / Every time I come back for a follow-up fitting to pick up my garments I have more garments to be fitted! Can I bring them at my appointment?
You should consider our Frequent Fitter subscription service that gives you even more perks! Your turnaround time will be faster, you will get priory fittings even during peak seasons, and you can always bring new garments to be fitted during your next follow-up!
We are so thrilled that you’re happy with our service and would love to take you on as a repeat client! If you’re not a Frequent Fitter, please let us know before your pick-up that you plan to bring more items to be fitted so that we can book you for a new fitting and allot the time for both your follow-up and new garments.
8 / Oh, no! I’ve confirmed booking, but I need to change the date and time!
Once you’re in as a paid client, your online booking fee is non-refundable, but we will do everything we can to accommodate your appointment request change! Feel free to shoot us an email letting us know of your request including the day and time you’d like to change it to. Appointments are time-sensitive as we book up very quickly, so what you see available now may not still be there if you wait, so let us know as soon as possible. Feel free to reference our online availability under Book Now to see available appointment times.
9 / Can I just drop something off for repair without booking online? It’s just a simple fix.
Unfortunately, we do not offer drop-off service or small fixes for single items. Our studio offers a full service experience and we are by appointment only so that we can best serve each of our clients and address them in a timely manner. If you have a few casual items to be adjusted, fixed, or fitted, feel free to book a single session under Casual and we will be glad to go over all your concerns during your session! You are welcome to book a single session for just one casual item to be alternated, but we encourage you to make the most of your visit by bringing up to 6 items!
10 / I am so thrilled with your service! Can I refer you to my friends? I know you’re so busy!
We appreciate any referrals you give us as it provides us the opportunity to expand our small business! ​