What to Expect at Your Bridal Consultation with Karen Couturier

What to Expect When Coming for a Bridal Consultation at Karen Couturier

At Karen Couturier, we are passionate about creating the perfect dress for your special day. With over 25 years of experience, Karen personally oversees the creation of each custom-made gown to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality and perfection. From the initial consultation to the final fitting, our team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process to bring your dream dress to life.

Step-by-Step Guide to Your Bridal Journey

Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you can expect when coming in for a bridal consultation at Karen Couturier:

1. Initial Consultations

The journey to your perfect dress begins with our initial consultations. We offer several options to cater to your specific needs:

Bridal Consultation: Your first step is meeting with our experienced bridal stylist, Anika. During this session, you’ll have the opportunity to share your vision for your wedding dress. Bring along inspiration images and ideas, and explore various materials and styles with Anika. She will carefully document your preferences and send them to Karen, who will then design a custom gown that aligns with your vision. After this, a follow-up consultation will be scheduled to present the designs and provide a detailed quote.
Estimated Time: 1 hour.
Book your consultation here: Bridal Consultation.

Follow-Up Bridal Consultation: During this session, you’ll meet with Karen to review 3-5 custom designs crafted specifically for you. This is where you choose “The One” and finalize the quote. We will discuss payment options (purchase or rental) and take your measurements if needed. To begin the creation process, a 70% non-refundable deposit is required.
Estimated Time: 1 hour.
Book your consultation here: Follow-Up Consultation.

Bridesmaid Consultation: This consultation focuses on designing the perfect dresses for your bridesmaids. Karen or Anika will guide you through selecting styles, materials, and colors. Measurements will be taken during this session, and a quote will follow. A 70% deposit is required to start the process. Bridesmaids typically have two fittings and a final collection.
Estimated Time: 30 minutes.
Book your consultation here: Bridesmaid Consultation.

Mother of the Bride/Evening Dress Consultation: During this consultation, Karen or Anika will help you choose the style, materials, and colors for your dress. Measurements will be taken, and a quote will follow. A 70% deposit is needed to begin creating your custom dress. You’ll have 3-4 fittings to ensure a perfect fit.
Estimated Time: 30 minutes.
Book your consultation here: Evening Wear / MOB.

2. Measurement Meeting

Accurate measurements are vital for ensuring a flawless fit. At our studio located at 766 Jacqueline Drive, Pretoria, we take precise measurements to ensure that your custom garment fits perfectly.
Estimated Time: 5 minutes per person.
Book your measurement appointment here: Measurement Meeting.

3. Fittings

Fittings are essential to achieving the perfect fit and look for your custom dress. Each dress involves a series of fittings:

• First Fitting: The lining will be fitted to ensure that we are on the right track and that you are happy with the initial design. Adjustments to the shape and fit will be made as needed.
  Estimated Time: 15-30 minutes.

• Subsequent Fittings (2-4): These fittings focus on refining the dress, making any necessary alterations, adding details, and ensuring all finishing touches are perfect. It’s important to communicate any concerns early, as alterations cannot be made after leaving the studio without an additional appointment.
  Estimated Time per Fitting: 15-30 minutes.

Important Reminders for Fittings:

• Wear the correct undergarments and bring your shoes to every fitting.

• Be punctual to ensure a smooth fitting process.

• Additional fittings beyond the included sessions will incur extra charges.

Book your fitting here: Bridal Fitting / Client Fitting.

4. Final Collection and Payment

Once your dress is completed, you’ll receive a collection link to schedule your final fitting. During this fitting, you will try on the dress one last time to ensure everything is perfect.

• Final Payment: The remaining balance must be paid before collection. Proof of payment is required.

• Important Note: Once the dress is collected, any additional alterations will be charged separately.
  Collection Appointment Time: 10-15 minutes.
  Book your collection here: Collection.

For rented dresses, please return them no later than 7 days after the event.

5. Payment Details

• Accepted Payment Methods: We accept EFT, credit card payments, and cash. Note that certain payment methods may incur additional fees.

• Payment Plans: A 70% non-refundable deposit is required to begin work on custom dresses. The remaining balance is due before collection.

6. Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies

To avoid additional fees, please make any cancellations or rescheduling at least 24 hours in advance. Missed appointments without notice will require an additional appointment fee.

7. Customer Preparation Guidelines

To ensure a smooth and productive consultation or fitting experience:

• Bring inspiration images and ideas.

• Wear or bring the appropriate undergarments and shoes.

• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to address during your consultation.

8. Aftercare Tips for Your Dress

Proper care is essential to maintain the quality of your dress:

• Store your dress away from direct sunlight and humidity to prevent discoloration.

• For cleaning, use a trusted dry cleaner experienced with bridal and eveningwear.

• For rented dresses, avoid food and drink stains, and follow our return guidelines to ensure a full deposit refund.

9. Testimonials from Our Clients

We take pride in our work and the joy it brings to our clients. Don’t just take our word for it—see what our clients have to say!
Read Testimonials Here.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What if I lose or gain weight after the fittings? Minor changes can be accommodated if notified in advance. Significant alterations may require extra fittings and charges.

• Can I bring more than one person to my consultation or fittings? Due to limited space, we recommend bringing only one or two people whose opinions you value most.

• What if I need to cancel my order after the deposit is paid? The 70% deposit is non-refundable as it covers the cost of materials and initial work.

• How long before my wedding/event should I start the dress-making process? We recommend starting at least 6-9 months in advance.

• What should I do if I notice an issue with the dress after collection? Contact us immediately to discuss the issue. Additional alterations after collection will be charged.

11. Contact for Queries

If you have any questions or concerns about your dress or the process, feel free to reach out:

• Website: www.karencouturier.com

• Email: karen@karencouturier.com

• Phone: +27 83 453 0870

We are here to make your dress journey smooth and enjoyable! We look forward to welcoming you to Karen Couturier and helping you create a gown that reflects your unique style and vision.