Your Bridal Countdown: What to Book and When

Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting journeys you’ll ever take, and knowing what to book and when can make the entire experience smoother, calmer, and far more enjoyable.

At Alexandra Mayleigh Designs, we guide brides through their dress journey every day, so we’ve created this clear countdown to help you feel organised and confident from the very beginning.

12 Months Before the Wedding: Begin Your Dress Journey

This is when the magic begins.

If you’re dreaming of a bespoke bridal gown or custom accessories, this is the time to start your experience with us. Alexandra Mayleigh’s bespoke process is deeply personal and crafted with artistry, which is why we recommend beginning 12 months before your wedding date.

At your bespoke consultation with Ellie, you’ll explore fabrics, share inspiration, and begin shaping the design that will become your wedding dress. A £50 non-refundable deposit secures this first appointment.

If you're considering our Vintage Muse service which involves transforming a sentimental garment into a one-of-a-kind bridal look, this is also the perfect time to enquire.

12 Weeks Before Your Wedding: Book Alterations

If you already have your gown, whether from a boutique or inherited, alterations are essential for achieving that flawless fit.

Ellie’s expert bridal alteration service should be booked 12 weeks before your wedding.Your first fitting is secured with a £30 non-refundable deposit, and during this appointment Ellie will guide you through all adjustments needed to perfect your silhouette, comfort, and overall finish.

This is also when you can enquire about adding dress cleaning, steaming, or aftercare services through our trusted partner, Wombourne Dry Cleaning.

Before the Big Day: Cleaning & Steaming

To make sure your gown looks immaculate in every photograph, many brides opt for a pre-clean and steam or pre-steam service.

These services can be added at your first appointment, and prices vary depending on the silhouette of your dress. From A-Line to Ballgown, Short dresses to Fishtail, each service is tailored to the needs of your gown.

If you’re planning to wear a second dress, hen-party outfit, or evening-change look, especially through our Vintage Muse service, this is also the time to schedule fittings and final checks.

After the Wedding: Aftercare & Preservation

Your gown holds the memories of your most important day, and aftercare ensures it stays beautifully preserved for years to come.

Our post-wedding dress clean service refreshes your gown professionally, and for the perfect finishing touch, our luxury preservation boxes keep your dress protected in layers of acid-free tissue. With a choice of box linings and premium craftsmanship from The Empty Box Company, it becomes a keepsake to treasure.

Enjoy a Seamless, Beautiful Bridal Experience

From bespoke gowns to meticulous alterations, sentimental transformations to expert aftercare, your dress journey deserves to feel calm, joyful, and unforgettable.

If you’re ready to begin, or simply want advice on the timeline that suits you best, we’re always here to help.

Enquiries: alexandramayleighdesigns@gmail.com