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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ABOUT CUSTOM COUTURE
What is Nancy Barrus Couture?
Avenía is pleased to be the exclusive house of Nancy Barrus Couture. Nancy Barrus is a couturier renowned for creating original gowns ranging from traditional and historically inspired styles and themes to the contemporary and avant-garde. For more than thirty years, discriminating brides have entrusted Nancy and her staff of expert designers and seamstresses to design, tailor and alter their wedding gowns. Nancy and her staff have distinguished themselves by providing flawless design and craftsmanship, impeccable attention to detail, and a passion for bridal couture and customer satisfaction that have won the loyalty of even the most discriminating and fashion-conscious brides. Drawing inspiration from your vision, Nancy and her staff offer their extensive experience and artistry to create a gown representative of your unique style and creativity. If you are inspired to create a custom gown, we invite you to schedule a design consultation with Nancy and her staff.
Do I need to schedule an appointment to discuss design options?
While we welcome you to our store at any time during store operating hours , design consultations require an appointment. We encourage you to schedule an appointment. During your visit, a bridal consultant will discuss with you your style, vision, budget, location and any cultural or religious considerations so she can assist you in designing the perfect wedding gown. We look forward to your visit and to sharing the Avenía experience with you.
What is the process for designing a custom gown?
To better understand the process involved in creating a custom gown, we invite you to call Nancy Barrus and her staff. Nancy will ask you several questions to find out more about the custom gown you envision, and will then overview the process and approximate cost and time involved in designing your gown. The next step is to schedule a design consultation. Avenía charges a nominal design consultation fee, which is applied to your account when a deposit is taken on your orders. The outcome of the consultation will be a design rendering of your gown and a price estimate.
How many fittings are needed for a custom gown?
Most custom gowns require a measurement appointment, two to three fittings, and a pick-up appointment for a total of four to five fitting appointments. For our out-of-town customers or rush engagements—depending on the gown's detail—we may be able to tailor your gown in an extended weekend or two, thereby consolidating the number of required fittings. Please note that there is an additional fee for this consolidated scheduling.
What is the price of a custom gown?
Custom gown prices start at around $900, but vary so widely in design, composition and complexity, that a design consultation is required to provide you with an estimate. The estimate you receive following your design consultation includes all fabrics, accoutrements (such as beading and lace), and labor—which is a function of the complexity of gown design and construction. The estimate also includes all fittings, pressing and a travel bag to protect your gown. Any alterations to the original design may result in a price increase. Accessories are priced separately.
What kind of lead time is required to create a custom gown?
The lead time required to design, tailor and fit your gown depends on the type of gown being created. Avenía recommends that you plan on 2 – 3 months; however, rush orders can be accommodated.
What options does Avenía provide for bridesmaids or special occasion dresses?
Avenía provides custom couture for bridesmaid, mother of the bride, and special-occasion dress needs. Designer Nancy Barrus and her staff of professional seamstresses can help you design and create inspired bridesmaid and mother of the bride dresses. Nancy and her staff also have more than 75 years collective experience creating gowns for special occasions such as proms, cruises, dinner parties, galas and other formal occasions. Please plan on approximately 2 – 3 months lead time to design, tailor and fit your bridesmaid, mother of the bride or special-occasion dress. Rush orders can be accommodated for a nominal fee.
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