Do I pay for wedding dress alterations before or after the work is done?

Payment for alterations usually works like this: you pay a deposit when you book your fitting, and the remaining balance when the alterations are complete. Some seamstresses may ask for full payment at the start, especially for complex work, but this is less common. Always ask for a written quote that lists each alteration and the cost, and check whether the quote includes the final pressing or any extra charges for materials like lace or boning.

If you are having your dress altered at the shop where you bought it, they may add the cost to your original invoice and ask for payment before you collect the dress. Independent seamstresses are more likely to take a deposit and then the balance on collection. Either way, you should not hand over the full amount before you have seen the finished work and tried the dress on again.

If you need to pay by card or bank transfer, ask in advance. Some seamstresses only take cash. Keep your receipt and any written agreement, so you have proof of what was agreed if anything goes wrong.