How to Prepare for Your First Bridal Fitting

Your first bridal fitting is such a meaningful step in your wedding journey! This is where your gown begins to transform from something beautiful on the hanger into something that feels truly yours. At Sweet Francis Sewing Co, our goal is to make this experience calm, supportive, and even a little magical — so you leave feeling more confident and excited than ever!

If you’re wondering how to prepare, here’s exactly what to expect and how to make the most of your first appointment.

How much time should you plan for?

Your first bridal fitting is scheduled for 45–60 minutes, and this gives us the time we need to discuss your vision and begin creating a plan to ensure the perfect fit for your gown.

It’s important to give yourself enough time for travel so you can arrive feeling calm and unhurried. Your fitting should feel like a peaceful pause in your wedding planning, not another rushed task on your list.

To protect the privacy and personalized experience of every Sweet Francis bride, we kindly ask that you arrive at your scheduled appointment time. This dedicated time allows us to focus entirely on you — your comfort, your gown, and your wedding day vision.

Should you bring anything to wear other than the dress?

The most important item to bring is your wedding day shoes.

Your shoes help determine the exact hem length. Even a small difference in heel height can affect how your dress falls!

You do not need to bring shapewear to your first fitting.

One of the benefits of custom alterations is that we can fit your gown to your body without relying on a bra or shapewear! There’s no pressure to have everything figured out ahead of time. 

Should you invite a guest?

You’re welcome to bring one or two supportive guests to share in this special moment with you.

The shop has  a comfortable seating area where they can relax and be part of your experience while we work together on your gown! Many brides like to have someone they trust there for encouragement and reassurance.

That being said, you are also completely welcome to come on your own!

A private fitting may make you feel more relaxed, confident, and connected to the experience. There’s no right or wrong choice- you do you, boo!

This is your time, and we honor whatever makes you feel your best!

What matters most

Your first fitting isn’t about perfection- it’s about beginning the process. (yay!)

It’s about understanding your gown, creating a thoughtful plan, and ensuring that by the time your wedding day arrives, your dress feels like it was made just for you.

You don’t need to prepare everything before the first appointment (phew!). 

Just bring your gown, your shoes, and your beautiful self!.

We’ll take care of the rest, and guide you every step of the way. We can’t wait to help you bring your vision to life!