~My dress my dress my dress!!!!~

Marisa 737... I love love love it, and the pics don't do it justice (but everyone says that, right?)! :(  I keep finding myself looking at other lace dresses with open backs or keyhole backs, but I always come back to mine (thank goodness! I don't wanna have to buy another dress).

Gown from Solutions Bridal Designer House (review posted).

2/23/09: First fitting, at Alterations Unlimited in Ocala, FL. Debbie, who's done alterations for almost everyone bride I've known, really knows her stuff. I'm so excited about working with her!

4/23/09: Final fitting :). I LOVE what she did with the neckline, and it fits like a glove! Excuse the poor quality photo, I only had my Blackberry to take the pic. I was SO thrilled!

I often see PW threads asking about the costs of alterations, so I thought I'd share the run-down of my initial quotes from Debbie. I have no idea how these compare to national averages, but hey, it's something, right?

Gown is silk satin with a silk organza overlay, so I know this does impact the prices somewhat. Silk fabrics are generally more expensive to alter, and I'm sure the multiple layers add to the price as well.

• 2 side seams: $48 each ($96)
• 2 back seams ("darts" under the bum, to show off the badunkadunk): $32 each ($64)
• Change neckline (re-cut to deeper "sweetheart"): $28
• Darts under bust: $14
• Bra cups: $16
• Bustle (French): $12 per point ($72)
• Hem gown (5 layers): $110
• Steam gown: $25