Common questions

Wedding alterations FAQ

Answers to the questions brides, grooms and bridal parties ask most often about gown and suit tailoring.

How far in advance should I book my wedding dress alterations?

Ideally 8–12 weeks before your wedding. This allows time for multiple fittings and any last-minute adjustments. Jacqui also welcomes shorter-notice bookings when possible.

What types of alterations do you offer for wedding gowns?

Jacqui offers a full range of bridal alterations including hemming, bodice adjustments, bustle creation, strap changes, and lace and beadwork restoration.

Do you have experience altering gowns from leading bridal designers?

Yes. Jacqui has altered hundreds of wedding gowns across a wide range of leading bridal labels, including Stella York, Essense of Australia, Martina Liana, Maggie Sottero, Madi Lane, Evie Young, Wilderly Bride, Maya Bella, Pronovias, Morilee, Justin Alexander, Allure Bridals, Enzoani, KYHA Studios, Karen Willis Holmes, Grace Loves Lace, Rue De Seine, Made With Love and Anna Campbell. Every gown is assessed individually, with alterations tailored to its construction, fabric and detailing.

Do you alter suits and formal menswear?

Yes. Jacqui tailors suits, tuxedos and formal menswear with the same precision she applies to bridal gowns. Common requests include sleeve and trouser hemming, waist suppression, and jacket restructuring.

Do you work on bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride dresses?

Absolutely. Bridesmaids, mother-of-the-bride, flower girl and formal evening dresses are all welcome. Group bookings can be arranged for bridal parties.

Can you restore or alter a vintage wedding dress?

Yes. Jacqui holds a Bachelor in Textiles and specialises in vintage restoration and hand-sewn finishing. She can modernise the fit while preserving delicate fabrics, lace and original detailing.

What areas do you service?

Jacqui's studio is in Shoalhaven Heads on the NSW South Coast. She regularly serves clients from the South Coast, Southern Highlands and Illawarra regions. Destination brides travelling to the area are also welcome.

How much do wedding dress alterations cost?

Pricing depends on the complexity of the work, the fabric and the level of detail. Jacqui provides personalised quotes after an initial consultation. Contact her to discuss your gown and receive an estimate.

Do you offer steaming and dressing assistance on the wedding day?

Yes. On-site steaming and dressing assistance is available to help you look flawless on your wedding day. This service is popular with destination brides and can be booked in advance.

How do I book a fitting?

The studio operates by appointment only. You can request a fitting via the contact form, email enquiries@alterationsbyjacqui.com.au or call / text 0413 388 357. Jacqui will reply with available times.

What should I bring to my first fitting?

Bring the shoes and undergarments you plan to wear on the day, plus the full suit, shirt and shoes if tailoring menswear. These affect the hem length and overall fit. If your dress has a veil or accessories, bring those too.

Still have a question? Get in touch and Jacqui will reply personally.

Just announced

Double #1 Winner at the 2026 Shoalhaven & South Coast Wedding Industry Awards

Two categories. Two first places — Bridal Gown Alterations and Suits & Formalwear.

Wedding Industry Awards 2026 number one winner badge for Shoalhaven and South Coast bridal gown alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Bridal Gown Alterations
Wedding Industry Awards 2026 number one winner badge for Shoalhaven and South Coast suits and formalwear alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Suits & Formalwear
Australian Wedding Awards 2026 finalist badge — 6th annual — awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Also a 2026 finalist

National Finalist · Australian Wedding Awards 2026

Shortlisted among Australia's best for bridal gown alterations — 6th annual Australian Wedding Awards.

Awards & recognition

A showcase of industry awards

National and regional recognition across bridal gown, suits and formalwear alterations — earned over multiple years of careful tailoring.

Australian Wedding Awards 2026 finalist badge — 6th annual — awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Finalist

2026 National Finalist

Australian Wedding Awards · 6th Annual · Bridal gown alterations

Wedding Industry Awards 2026 number one winner badge for Shoalhaven and South Coast bridal gown alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Regional

2026 Regional Winner

Wedding Industry Awards · Shoalhaven & South Coast · Bridal gown alterations

Wedding Industry Awards 2026 number one winner badge for Shoalhaven and South Coast suits and formalwear alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Regional

2026 Regional Winner

Wedding Industry Awards · Shoalhaven & South Coast · Suits & formalwear

Wedding Industry Awards 2025 number one winner badge for Shoalhaven and South Coast suits and formalwear alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Regional

2025 Regional Winner

Wedding Industry Awards · Shoalhaven & South Coast · Suits & formalwear

Australian Wedding Awards 2025 number one winner badge for bridal gown alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Bridal

2025 National Winner

Australian Wedding Awards · Bridal gown alterations

Australian Wedding Awards 2025 number one winner badge for suits and formalwear alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Suits

2025 National Winner

Australian Wedding Awards · Suits & formalwear alterations

Wedding Industry Awards 2024 number one winner badge for Shoalhaven and South Coast bridal gown alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Regional

2024 Regional Winner

Wedding Industry Awards · Shoalhaven & South Coast · Bridal gown alterations

Australian Wedding Awards 2024 number one winner badge for bridal gown alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Bridal

2024 National Winner

Australian Wedding Awards · Bridal gown alterations

Australian Wedding Awards 2024 number one winner badge for suits and formalwear alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Suits

2024 National Winner

Australian Wedding Awards · Suits & formalwear alterations

Wedding Industry Awards 2023 number one winner badge for Shoalhaven and South Coast bridal gown alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Bridal

2023 Regional Winner

Wedding Industry Awards · Shoalhaven & South Coast · Bridal gown alterations

Australian Wedding Awards 2022 highly commended badge for bridal gown alterations awarded to Alterations by Jacqui
Awarded

2022 Highly Commended

Australian Wedding Awards · Bridal gown alterations