HOURS:

Monday - Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm    

Thursday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm

Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

​Saturdays 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Sundays & Holidays - CLOSED

APPOINTMENTS*: Customers are seen by Appointment Only* on Thursdays & Saturdays

I DO NO ACCEPT WALK-INS!!!! I always have a running waitlist and those clients come first! SORRY NO EXCEPTIONS!

FEES: Vary upon service needed.  Base pricing is listed under each service. To receive an estimate, please make an appointment. This allows us to be on the same page and ensure I am giving you an appropriate estimate (because no one likes surprises) for the service and time needed to do that service.

FORMS OF PAYMENT:  Cash or Checks (payable to "The Joy of Sewing & Embroidery Service") or EFT (electronic funds transfer via your banking institution) and Credit cards*.

PayPal is accepted for reservations only through the scheduler, not for payment.
*Certain restrictions apply. I do not accept Venmo, Cash App, Zelle or any other form payment. Cash means physical Cash.

*To better serve my customers, I have set these days aside so they can conveniently schedule their appointment via the ONLINE BOOKING SYSTEM available 24/7.  All other days are so that I may get the work done on time, answer messages, and tend to other business and family matters. Please be sure to make an appointment to ensure my availability and your time.

Please feel free to leave a message on the virtual line 667-200-2SEW (739) should you have an Emergency or Request!

*Please see the agreement/policy at the bottom of this page. 2% fee for credit cards

Wedding Dress & Alterations Planning Timeline

Planning ahead is one of the best ways to reduce stress and ensure everything comes together smoothly for your wedding day.

18–24 Months Before the Wedding

Choose Your Date & Venue

Your wedding date and venue should be among the first decisions you make. Many venues are now booking 18 months to 2 years in advance, especially for popular dates and locations.

Hire Your Wedding Planner

A wedding planner can be an invaluable resource throughout the planning process. They help coordinate details, recommend trusted vendors, manage timelines, and ensure everything runs smoothly leading up to and on your wedding day.

12–15+ Months Before the Wedding

Say "Yes to the Dress"

It is highly recommended that you purchase your wedding gown at least 12–15 months before your wedding date. This allows sufficient time for:

• Manufacturing and production
• Shipping delays
• Potential reorders
• Alterations and customizations

The earlier you purchase your gown, the more flexibility you will have throughout the process.

Secure Your Vendors

Many wedding professionals are booking 12+ months in advance. This includes:

• Photographers
• Videographers
• Caterer
• Bakery for Cake
• Florists
• DJs and Musicians
• Hair and Makeup Artists
• Wedding Planners
• Seamstresses and Alteration Specialists

The most sought-after vendors often book first, so reserving early is highly recommended.

When Purchasing Your Dress

If your gown includes lace, appliqué, beading, sequins, or other intricate details, especially a lace or appliqué hemline, ask your bridal consultant whether the designer offers either of the following options:

Hollow-to-Hem

A Hollow-to-Hem measurement is taken from the hollow of your neck (where your collarbones meet) to the floor, including the height of your wedding shoes.

The gown is then ordered closer to your finished length, reducing the amount of hemming required later.

Benefits:

• Can significantly reduce alteration costs
• Preserves detailed hem designs
• Requires less labor during alterations

Unattached Lace Hem

Some designers offer the option of ordering the lace hem unattached.

Instead of removing and reapplying lace during alterations, the gown can be shortened and the lace attached afterward.

Benefits:

• Reduces alteration labor
• Helps preserve the original lace design
• May lower alteration costs

Please Note: Not all designers offer these options, so be sure to ask your bridal consultant before placing your order and there is an additional cost for this, but far less than alterations.

Reserve Your Seamstress Early

One of the most common misconceptions is that you must wait until your dress arrives before reserving your seamstress.

You can, and should, reserve your seamstress as soon as your gown is ordered.

Early reservation helps:

• Secure a place in the alteration schedule
• Reduce stress as your wedding approaches
• Ensure adequate time for detailed work
• Avoid rush fees or limited availability

If You Are Planning to Work With Me

Appointments are scheduled online.

Once in the scheduler:

1. Select Wedding Gown Alterations
2. Choose Reservations – Initial Bridal Consultation
3. Select the year of your wedding
4. Schedule your consultation for when your gown is expected to arrive

Your consultation should typically occur no less than:

• 3 months before the wedding for gowns with no detail
• 4+ months before the wedding for gowns with lace, appliqué, beading, sequins
• Allow 6+ months for custom work

Important Information About Detailed Hemlines

If your gown has a lace or appliqué hemline and was not ordered Hollow-to-Hem or with an unattached lace option, alterations can still be completed.

However, it is important to understand the process:

• The lace or appliqué must be carefully removed by hand.
• The gown is shortened to the appropriate length.
• The lace or appliqué is then individually hand-sewn back onto the gown.

This process requires additional time, labor, and expertise, which will increase alteration costs and most dresses require 1-3 days process in total for removal and re-install.

The Key to a Stress-Free Wedding Dress Experience

✔ Set your date and venue early.

✔ Purchase your gown 12–15+ months in advance.

✔ Ask about Hollow-to-Hem and Unattached Lace options.

✔ Reserve your seamstress as soon as your dress is ordered.

✔ Secure your vendors early.

✔ Allow plenty of time for alterations.

The earlier you plan, the more options you'll have, and the less stress you'll experience as your wedding day approaches.

Please use the guide to assist with planning. I typically book in advance from March - October. Appointments are visible 12 months in advance, for everything but wedding gown alterations, which are visible 18 months out. All Scheduling is done via ONLINE BOOKING SYSTEM.

SEE NEWSLETTERS for additional information.

Bridal Party & Other Formal Alterations

How to Schedule

All appointments are scheduled through the online reservation system.

1. Select "Bridal Party & Other Formal Alterations" in the Scheduler.
2. Choose the appropriate reservation appointment.
3. Reservation appointments are available for:
   • 1 Person
   • 2 People
   • 3 People

Reservations start at $25.00* and availability can be viewed up to 12 months in advance.

*Reservation fees are non-refundable and are credited toward alterations on kept appointments.

Turnaround Time

The recommended turnaround time for Bridal Party and Other Formal alterations is 6–8 weeks. Longer for detailed dresses and 4+months for custom work.

To ensure the best experience and avoid rush fees, please schedule as early as possible.

Your Alteration Process

Most Bridal Party and Other Formal garments require 2–3 appointments.

Garments with extensive detail, embellishments, fit concerns, or additional custom work may require an additional fitting.

First Appointment – Initial Fitting (30 Minutes)

Please bring:

• Shoes
• Undergarments you plan to wear

During this appointment we will:

• Discuss your desired fit and overall vision
• Evaluate the garment while you are wearing it
• Pin and assess necessary alterations
• Review the alteration process
• Schedule future fitting appointments

Second Appointment – Fitting (30 Minutes)

Please bring:

• Shoes
• Undergarments you plan to wear

During this appointment we will:

• Check the fit of alterations completed so far
• Make any necessary adjustments
• Finalize hemline decisions
• Confirm overall fit and comfort

Third / Final Appointment – Pickup & Final Fitting (30 Minutes)

Please bring:

• Shoes
• Undergarments you plan to wear

During this appointment we will:

• Confirm everything fits as desired
• Review the finished alterations
• Steam the garment
• Send you on your way ready for your event

Estimated Alteration Costs

Based on last year's averages, Bridal Party and Other Formal alterations typically ranged between:

$140 – $375

Actual pricing varies based on:

• Garment construction
• Type and number of alterations needed
• Lace, appliqué, beading, sequins, or other embellishments
• Custom work requests
• Current workload and timeline

The best way to receive an accurate estimate is to schedule an appointment.

Rush & CER Fees

Bridesmaid, prom, and other formal garments submitted with less than the recommended turnaround time may be subject to a Convenience, Emergency, and Rush (CER) Fee.

Please allow adequate time whenever possible to ensure the best experience and widest range of scheduling options.

Additional Information

For more detailed service descriptions, policies, examples, and updates, please visit:

• Alterations Page
• Services & Gallery Page
• Newsletters

Bridal Dresser Service

Available? Absolutely!

Yes, Bridal Dresser Services are available, subject to availability. Please visit the Bridal Dresser section for complete details and package options.

What Is a Bridal Dresser?

A Bridal Dresser is your personal wedding-day assistant, dedicated to helping you look and feel your best while ensuring the dressing process runs smoothly and stress-free.

I come directly to your venue and remain with you for the level of service you select, providing an extra layer of support and peace of mind throughout the most important moments before your ceremony.

A Bridal Dresser complements your existing vendor team and does not replace any vendor or coordinator.

How I Help on Your Wedding Day

Before the Ceremony

✔ Assist the bride with dressing

✔ Help with jewelry, shoes, veil placement, and final accessories

✔ Ensure hair, makeup, nails, and attire remain picture-perfect while getting dressed

✔ Assist members of the bridal party* as needed

✔ Steam minor wrinkles and perform final garment touch-ups

✔ Handle last-minute wardrobe concerns and emergencies

✔ Set and arrange your train for walking down the aisle

Working Alongside Your Vendors

I work collaboratively with your wedding professionals to help everything run smoothly.

✔ Receive guidance from your hair and makeup artists before they depart regarding any recommended touch-ups

✔ Assist your photographer with dress positioning, train placement, veil styling, and bridal party preparation

✔ Help streamline the photography process so you can spend more time enjoying your wedding day and less time getting through photos

✔ Coordinate with your Day-of Coordinator or Wedding Planner to ensure every detail is attended to

During the Reception

✔ Bustle your train before cocktail hour or the reception

✔ Ensure your gown continues to look its best throughout the day

✔ Be available for wardrobe assistance based on your selected service level

Why Brides Love This Service

Your wedding day should be spent celebrating, not worrying about your dress or everyone else.

A Bridal Dresser helps:

• Reduce stress for the bride
• Take pressure off parents and family members
• Support the bridal party
• Provide professional gown expertise when needed most
• Allow your coordinator and other vendors to focus on their specialized roles
• Give you peace of mind knowing someone is dedicated to your attire and appearance

The result is a smoother, more enjoyable wedding day where everyone can be fully present and immersed in the celebration.

*Services provided for members of the bridal party vary based on the selected package level.

Can't Find an Appointment?

I know it can be nerve-racking when you're trying to schedule alterations and don't see an available appointment. The good news is there are several ways to improve your chances of getting on my schedule.

First Things First

My #1 Tip: PLAN AHEAD!

Please visit the Scheduling Page to review the recommended turnaround times for your service.

Keep in mind these are minimum turnaround times, not ideal timelines.

I typically book:

• 2-3+ months in advance for general and formal alterations
• 6-8+ months in advance for wedding gown alterations

The earlier you plan, the more scheduling options you'll have and the less stress you'll experience.

My #2 Tip: Follow Me on Social Media!

I highly recommend following my social media pages and subscribing to my email list.

You'll be the first to know:

• How far I am currently booking ahead
• Schedule updates
• Special offers
• Important policy changes
• Seasonal reminders and planning tips

Option 1: Join the Waiting List

If appointments are unavailable, your first step should be to join the Waiting List.

How to Join

1. Click the "Waiting List" icon on the Scheduling/Reservations Page.
2. Complete the form in its entirety.
3. Attach a link to your garment or upload/send photos separately if needed.
4. Submit all requested information.

Why Join Early?

The Waiting List is processed strictly in the order submissions are received.

The sooner you join, the better your position in line.

Remember: Someone who joins before you will be contacted before you.

Important Information

• Incomplete submissions cannot be considered.
• It is your responsibility to provide all requested information.
• You will receive periodic check-ins to confirm you still need an appointment.
• You must keep your information current to maintain your place in line.

Missing Information Alert: If you review your submission and see "*IS" next to your name, information is missing. Please email me as soon as possible so your submission can be updated.

Option 2: Schedule the Earliest Available Appointment

If an appointment is available at or 1 week less of recommended turnaround time for your event date, you may schedule it* and select the:

"Hoping for Sooner Appointment" Option

This lets my scheduler know that you would like to be contacted if a cancellation becomes available.

If an earlier opening occurs, I will reach out to offer the appointment.

Please Keep in Mind

• You may receive as little as 30 minutes' notice or up to 24 hours' notice.
• You must respond within the timeframe provided.
• If I do not hear back, I will move on to the next person waiting.
• You will remain on the sooner appointment list until your scheduled appointment arrives or you accept an earlier opening.

Important: Please make sure you can attend the appointment you originally scheduled in case a sooner opening never becomes available.

Timing Requirements

Please do not schedule:

• Less than 4 weeks before an event for Bridal Party, Prom, or Other Formal alterations.
• Less than 12 weeks before your wedding for Wedding Gown alterations.

Without consulting me first, you risk being outside my workable timeline and I may be unable to assist. Reservation fees are non-refundable.

*Please note that appointments accepted with less than the recommended turnaround time will be subject to a Convenience, Emergency, and Rush (CER) Fee.

Option 3: Watch the Schedule

My clients manage their own appointments and can reschedule or cancel online.

Because of this, openings can appear at any time and if in the middle of the night I may not catch it until its too late because other people are stalking the schedule too.

My Recommendation:

If you see an opening that works for you, grab it immediately!

Appointments can disappear quickly.

Please note that if there is an active Waiting List, available openings may first be offered to those waiting based on submission order.

A Final Note

While I would love to help everyone, I am only one person, and quality is always my top priority.

Planning ahead, joining the Waiting List early, and following my social media channels are the best ways to secure an appointment and stay informed.

Remember:

✔ Plan Ahead

✔ Join the Waiting List Early

✔ Keep Your Waiting List Information Updated

✔ Follow Me on Social Media

✔ Subscribe to Email Updates

These simple steps will give you the best opportunity to secure an appointment and enjoy a stress-free alterations experience.

For additional information and updates, please see my Newsletter Posts.

Weight Changes During the Alteration Process

I completely understand wanting to look your absolute best for your special event. Helping you achieve the fit and appearance you want is a very important part of my job.

However, if you are actively trying to lose or gain weight, I highly recommend reaching a stable and manageable point before beginning the alteration process whenever possible.

Can My Garment Be Altered More Than Once?

In most cases, yes.

I will alter your garment as many times as reasonably needed within the limitations of the garment's construction, fabric, seam allowances, and overall design.

However, please understand that additional alterations require additional labor and appointments. While I am happy to help you achieve the best fit possible, my time and services are not free.

Each time a garment must be re-altered due to body changes, additional alteration charges will apply.

Why Stability Matters

1. Additional Alterations Increase Costs

When measurements change after alterations have already been completed, I may need to:

• Remove previous stitching
• Re-pin and re-fit the garment
• Reconstruct altered areas
• Perform additional fittings

Each of these steps requires additional time and labor, which can increase the overall cost of alterations.

2. It Can Tighten Your Timeline

Additional alterations often require additional appointments.

If your garment is already on a tight timeline, repeated adjustments can create scheduling challenges and increase the risk of needing rush services.

This is especially important if you are already working within the minimum recommended turnaround time.

3. It Affects Scheduling

When a garment requires unexpected additional appointments, it impacts not only your timeline but also the schedule reserved for other clients.

Planning ahead and maintaining stable measurements helps keep everyone's alterations moving smoothly.

Weight and Inches Are NOT the Same Thing

One of the biggest misconceptions is that weight loss automatically equals inch loss, or vice versa.

The reality is:

• You can lose weight and see very little change in measurements.
• You can lose inches with very little change on the scale.
• Two people who weigh exactly the same can wear completely different sizes.

If weight and measurements were the same thing, every 150-pound person would have the same shape and fit into the same size dress, and we all know that's not how it works!

Because alterations are based on how a garment fits your body, measurements and fit are often more important than the number on the scale.

Communication Is Key

If you are actively working toward a weight-loss or fitness goal, please let me know as early as possible.

The sooner we discuss your goals and timeline, the better I can help guide you through the alteration process and develop a plan that minimizes stress, unexpected costs, and last-minute surprises.

My goal is the same as yours: a garment that fits beautifully and helps you feel confident on your special day, while keeping your budget and my scheduled balanced.

Expecting, Planning a Pregnancy, or Concerned About Body Changes?

Great News—Don't Panic!

There are several factors to consider when ordering a wedding gown or formal dress if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or simply expect your body measurements to change before your event.

The key is to plan ahead, communicate honestly, and seek guidance before ordering. Doing so can save you significant stress, time, and money.

Wedding Gowns

Most wedding gowns require:

• 6–9 months for manufacturing and delivery
• 3–4+ months for alterations, depending on the level of detail

Because of this, I highly recommend saying "Yes to the Dress" at least 12-15+ months before your wedding date whenever possible. This allows time for:

• Manufacturing
• Shipping delays
• Potential reorders
• Alterations
• Unexpected changes in measurements

Be sure to discuss your timeline and circumstances with the bridal shop when placing your order so they can help guide you appropriately.

Formal Dresses

(Bridesmaids, Mothers, Prom, Evening Wear, and Other Formal Attire)

Most formal dresses require:

• 3–6 months for manufacturing and delivery
• 6–8+ weeks for alterations

Because of this, I recommend ordering your dress at least 6-8+ months before your event whenever possible.

As with wedding gowns, be sure to share any concerns regarding pregnancy or expected body changes with the retailer when ordering.

Ordering Online? Please Read!

If you are ordering online, I strongly recommend scheduling a Measurement Appointment before placing your order.

During this appointment, we can discuss:

• Your timeline
• Your body measurements
• Pregnancy considerations
• Dress style and silhouette
• Alteration expectations
• Budget considerations

My goal is to help you avoid costly mistakes and choose the size most likely to work for your situation.

Most Important Tip:

Do NOT order a formal dress or wedding gown in the same size you wear in everyday clothing.

Bridal and formalwear sizing is often significantly different from street clothing sizes. Many people are surprised to find they need to order 2 to 4 sizes larger than their everyday size.

Doing your homework before ordering can save a great deal of disappointment later.

What Size Should I Order?

Every situation is unique.

Depending on:

• The dress design
• The fabric
• The silhouette
• Where you may be in your pregnancy
• Expected body changes
• Manufacturer sizing

You may be advised to order anywhere from 1–4 sizes larger than your current bridal measurement and this depends on where you will be in your pregnancy on your wedding/event date.

In most cases, dresses should be ordered according to the largest body measurement, regardless of which area that may be.

My Role in the Process

I am here to help you navigate these decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses whenever possible.

There are many factors involved, and every situation is different. The sooner we can discuss your plans and expectations, the more options we typically have available.

I am always happy to provide guidance and support throughout the process.

However, it is important to understand that while I will do everything reasonably possible to help achieve the best fit, additional alterations require additional labor and appointments.

My time, expertise, and services are not free.

If body measurements change after alterations have been completed, additional alteration charges may apply for the additional work required. Open communication allows us to plan appropriately and often helps minimize those costs.

Honesty and communication are key. If you keep me informed, I can usually help you develop the most practical and cost-effective plan.

The Golden Rule

ALWAYS ORDER FOR YOUR LARGEST BODY MEASUREMENT.

Whether you are:

• Pregnant
• Planning a pregnancy
• Experiencing weight changes

It is generally far less expensive to take a garment in than it is to let it out. Letting it out depends on seam allowance.

Important Note About Letting Out a Dress

Many people assume a dress can simply be made larger if needed.

Unfortunately, that is not always possible.

The ability to let out a dress depends entirely on the amount of seam allowance left inside the garment.

Some dresses have:

• Minimal seam allowance (1/2" or less)
• Surged seams
• French seams

In these situations, there is no ability to let the garment out at all.

When in doubt, ordering up a size is often the safer and more cost-effective choice.

My #1 Tip: Plan Ahead!

A little planning today can save a lot of stress, expense, and last-minute surprises later.

Custom Work, Re-Designs & Transformations

What Is Considered Custom Work?

Custom work is any project that goes beyond standard alterations.

This includes:

• Garments that need to be completely re-designed
• Existing garments that need to be transformed into something different
• Major modifications that change the original design
• Pattern-based projects*
• Specialty projects requiring materials, trims, lace, or components to be sourced

In general, if the work extends beyond basic alterations, it is considered custom work.

Custom Work Requires Additional Time

Unlike alterations, custom projects often require extensive planning before work can even begin.

Additional time may be needed for:

• Design consultations
• Research and planning
• Pattern work
• Ordering fabrics and materials
• Shipping and delivery of supplies
• Multiple fittings
• Construction and finishing work

Because of this, custom projects require significantly more lead time than standard alterations.

Recommended Timeline

Custom work generally requires a minimum of:

• 5–6+ months for Wedding Dresses
• 3-4+ months for bridal party/other formal (non-wedding dress garments)
• Longer during Prom, Wedding, and Homecoming Season (March–October)

Actual timelines vary based on:

• Project complexity
• Material availability
• Current workload
• Number of fittings required

The Earlier, The Better

There is no such thing as planning too far ahead.

If you are considering a custom project, re-design, or transformation, I highly recommend contacting me as early as possible or scheduling the first available appointment.

Planning ahead allows us to:

• Discuss your vision
• Determine feasibility
• Establish a realistic timeline
• Source materials
• Budget appropriately
• Avoid disappointment and last-minute stress

Services No Longer Offered

Discontinued in 2018

Made-from-Scratch Garments

This service included:

• Wedding gowns
• Dresses
• Costumes
• Other garments constructed entirely from new materials

This service was discontinued due to ongoing supply chain challenges and the difficulty of obtaining appropriate fabrics and materials within reliable timelines that often resulted in me having to perform these services in less than a fraction of time, keeping me from other services more in demand, family and work-life balance.

Discontinued in 2023

Home Décor Sewing

This service included:

• Cornices
• Curtains
• Valances
• Similar home décor items

This service was discontinued due to the increasing demand for alterations, which now represents the majority of studio workload. In addition, home décor projects required significant workspace reconfiguration of studio, reducing overall studio efficiency for alterations and impacting work-like family balance.

Services Still Offered

I continue to offer:

✔ Garment Re-Designs

✔ Garment Transformations

✔ Wedding Gown Re-Styling

✔ Heirloom & Sentimental Garment Projects

✔ Custom Alteration-Based Modifications

Thank You for Your Understanding

Both discontinued services were publicly announced approximately one year before they were retired.

If you have questions about whether your project qualifies as a re-design, transformation, alteration, or custom work, please contact me before scheduling so I can help determine the best path forward.

My #1 Tip: Plan Ahead!

Custom work requires time, planning, materials, and collaboration. The earlier we begin the conversation, the more options we typically have available.

YES...I do. See below.

There is a minimum $35.00 charge* for a materials list unless you are a bride or other client already on my schedule then this service is Free with limited communication.

Restrictions for this are to ensure that I can fully support clients who have properly planned and reserved their time with me. By adhering to these guidelines, I can prioritize confirmed clients and provide them with the dedicated attention and service they deserve. Maintaining this structure also allows me to manage my schedule and waitlist responsibly, helping prevent the need to reduce the number of brides/clients I serve in the future or to increase prices unnecessarily.

*Payment must be received prior to materials list being sent 24-48 hours after payment processes and is based on availability and workload as able. Clients with reserved appointments have priority. Added communication, if needed, will be charged by the hour.

Yes, as with any service, I will draw up an estimate and have you sign a contract. I will work out a payment plan per the service you need and the time frame you need. A deposit of 50% must be received before I can begin work or within 10 days of consultation. * The final payment must be received, 14 business days (not including holidays/weekends) before your final fitting/pick up your merchandise. *

We will discuss options for this at your initial appointment. If you are doing a payment plan, the forms of payment are cash, check*, or EFT (electronic funds transfer-using your bank account).

• Credit cards carry a 2% fee and are not accepted less than 60 days of garment completion/final fitting.
• Checks required 21 business days.
• EFT is 14 business days.
• Cash always accepted.

*Please see the agreement/policy below on this page for terms and conditions. 

It is best to contact me immediately so I can let you know if I can assist you or if you need to put yourself on the wait list or find someone else.
You may email me at joy.pelt@thejoyofsewingservice.com or message me on my business Facebook page.

Since this is an emergency service, the posted convenience/emergency/rush fee is required, and form of payment will be Cash Only. Should it be after business hours, please be sure to leave in your message, as non-urgent calls aren't returned until the next business day.

Virtual Line # 667-200-2SEW (739)

Wedding gowns requiring less than the recommended turn-a-round time (see guide below) will be considered as a Convenience/Emergency/Rush service in which the below fees will apply. "Please be sure to plan so that we don't have to add to the stresses of your Big Day!" 

​Please see Convenience/Emergency Rates/Fees at the bottom of the services page.

Convenience/Emergency/Rush rate for custom work is no longer offered; please plan ahead of minimums. March - October is a busy wedding months, and it can take anywhere from 3 - 6 months for custom work. November - January are generally a little slower.

*Cash Is Required for all Convenience/Emergency/Rush services and Accounts not paid in full 14 business days before picking up. The below fees are in addition to the regular charge. Not responsible for mail delivery delays. Sorry, No Exceptions! Full Policy/disclaimer Yes...This will depend on the time of year and current workload, as I typically book in advance, and the demands of the wedding season can be quite challenging. Please immediately put yourself on the waitlist!

I return all messages as follows:

• Phone - within 1-3 business days, returned between 9 am - 7 pm (unless you specify otherwise), as I like to respect your time and mine.
• Email* - usually within the next business day, returned early in the morning, lunch break or late in the evening.
• Social Media* - Usually same day or the next business day if closed.
• Virtually* - (667) 200-2SEW (739) the usually same day or the next business day if closed.

So that I may work more efficiently to provide my customers with timely/quality service, I do not answer my virtual line (hence the reason it is virtual).

• Why?

Simply put TELEMARKETERS don't respect one's time, and I get an A-lot of them. So, I decided to let technology handle some of this a few years ago so I may maintain the balance as a sole proprietor, mom, wife, etc.

This method "Helps Me Help You" in a more efficient manner and assists those that may be on my Waiting List on my website.
​
Should you need a response right away, FB messenger or my Virtual line 667-200-2SEW (2739) are the best methods as I can answer it on the go easier. Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to working with you. If you are needed advice on something, please email me all the information so I can get back to you.

*Best methods of communication and quicker response.

Good Question. I get asked this frequently and direct everyone to the base price list under the area of service you need. Select your area of service tab from the menu bar.

Alterations tab has charts for each Wedding, Bridal Party/Other Formal and Everyday/Casual.  Estimates are given in writing at the appointment only so that we can be on the same page with what you want, as no one likes surprises.

As for discounts, they are offered when the bride has made reservations with me and members of the bridal party book their reservations a minimum of eight (8) weeks (greater for custom work needs) prior to the wedding date. Discounts 5% to 10% may be available, and cash is the only accepted form of payment for discounted invoices.

Please email for details and specific discount qualifications. Please note that discounts on invoices apply only when both the deposit and all scheduled payments are made in cash. Any applicable discount will be applied to the final payment.

*Please note that to receive a discount, you must be with a bride that is getting alterations done with me, book 8+ weeks ahead of wedding date. Credit cards are not accepted for discounts.

Yes, I do! I take great pride in ensuring that all my customers can feel comfortable in knowing that I take this seriously.

Every customer must understand and agree to this in the booking form.

I do not accept any garments/items that do not meet the following Health & Safety Guidelines.
All garments/items must be soil and odor/allergen free to include (but not limited to…) smoke, pet, dirt, body odor, stains, perfumes, etc. This also includes but not limited to persons who may carry these odor/allergens and soils in with them as these can permeate into the studio and affect others and their garments/items.

Garments/Items arriving in such condition will be asked to have them cleaned before returning them to me for care/service or find another seamstress.

Your safety and mine are always the priority. The studio will close if any of the following conditions are present:

• A state or county emergency is declared
• Ice conditions exist
• Three (3) or more inches of snow are forecasted or accumulated*

If the studio closes due to weather, all affected appointments will be rescheduled without penalty. This will be sent via SMS/text message or in some cases via email.

For any anticipated weather-related interruptions, full communication will be sent via email more than 24 hours in advance to provide time, clarity, and transparency. My goal is always your safety while keeping everyone on track for their individual needs and timelines.

When the studio remains open, clients are responsible for assessing travel conditions in their specific area and making the decision that best supports their personal safety.

For same-day weather events occurring within 24 hours of an appointment that may significantly impact travel or one’s safety, the rescheduling fee will be waived. Rescheduling options will be sent via SMS/Text or email.

All other weather-related rescheduling requests, particularly those related to past events or improving conditions, must follow the 24-hour policy. Requests made with less than 24 hours will be subject to the standard rescheduling policy. Rescheduling may be self-serve through your personal link, SMS/Text messaging or email.

*Forecasted or accumulated based on weather service and start of weather. Immediate communication sent via SMS/text message through virtual number below.

Virtual # 667-200-2SEW (739)

You may email me at joy.pelt@thejoyofsewingservice.com or send virtual message to 667-200-2SEW (739) or fill out the contact form.