Alterations with The Dress Doctor
If you’re an Alabama bride searching for flawless wedding dress alterations, meet the powerhouse team behind The Dress Doctor. Based in Alabaster, AL, seamstresses Laura Poskey and Kathlene Smitherman are known across the Birmingham area for their craftsmanship, passion, and attention to every stitch.
Our Fleur de Vie Bridal team sat down with Laura and Kathlene to talk about everything brides should know before bringing their gown in for alterations. Below is your insider’s preview — but make sure to watch the full interview to hear their stories and advice firsthand.
When Should You Schedule Your Alterations?
The #1 mistake brides make is waiting too long. The Dress Doctor recommends contacting your seamstress at least three months before your wedding, and ideally as soon as your dress is ordered or you have a shipping estimate.
If you wait until your gown is in hand, your seamstress may already be booked for the season — especially in busy months like March through June or September through November.
At The Dress Doctor, gowns brought in within one month of the wedding will incur a rush fee, but Laura and Kathlene accommodate every bride that calls ahead.
“If you call early, we will get you in. No matter what,” Laura says.
What To Expect During Your Alterations Appointments
Your first alterations appointment is all about fit, comfort, and confidence. You’ll bring your dress, exact wedding shoes, any shapewear or undergarments you plan to wear, a trusted guest or two, and a $250 cash or check deposit.
At the first fitting, Laura and Kathlene walk you through each area of your dress — pinning, marking, and discussing every change together. The main focus is the bust and bodice, while the second appointment focuses on your hem and bustle.
Finally, your last appointment is the moment everything comes together. Bring your veil, jewelry, and shoes for a complete bridal look check. You’ll also pay your remaining balance and take home your gown.
Pro Tip: Bring a friend to your final fitting to video your bustle instructions — that short clip will save you from wedding chaos later.
Extra Services at The Dress Doctor
Beyond alterations, these talented women are expanding what it means to be a bridal seamstress. The Dress Doctor also offers:
Day-Of Gown Steaming
Day-Of Suit and Shirt Pressing for Groom & Groomsmen
Day-Of Coordination (by Laura)
Vintage Getaway Car Rentals (by Kathlene and her husband)
Virtual or In-Person Dress Consultations for samples or off-the-rack
Their goal? To take stress off your plate and make sure you — and your bridal party — look effortlessly polished.
Custom Details and Bustles
From custom straps and sleeves to bows and bustles, The Dress Doctor is all about the details. Laura is known for her signature bustle, a variation of the ballroom bustle, while Kathlene is nicknamed the ‘French bustle queen.’ Each bustle is designed to enhance the gown’s silhouette without compromising its original structure.
“Every bustle doesn’t look good with every dress,” Kathlene explained. The goal is finding what compliments your design.
How Much Do Wedding Dress Alterations Cost?
Most brides in Alabama can expect to pay between $850 to $1,000 for full bridal alterations at The Dress Doctor, depending on gown construction and detailing. Simpler gowns may start around $600, while heavily beaded or customized accessories can exceed $1,200.
If you’re unsure where you’ll fall, Laura and Kathlene are happy to provide roundabout estimates.
Watch the Full Interview: Alterations with The Dress Doctor
This Q&A only scratches the surface. In our full video interview, The Dress Doctor shares advice and behind-the-scenes insights you don’t want to miss!
Watch the full interview here —> Alterations with The Dress Doctor
About This Series:
Vow & Vendors: A Bridal Guide by Wedding Pros Our Vows & Vendors series will spotlight Alabama wedding professionals — from photographers and florists to planners and seamstresses — offering transparent, honest insight into every part of the wedding journey.
Follow along with Fleur de Vie Bridal Boutique as we share more behind-the-scenes interviews, real life tips, and expert advice from the people who make Alabama weddings unforgettable.
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