''I cannot recommend Maryke enough!
She created a dress that made me feel incredibly beautiful and confident on one of the most important days of my life. Her attention to detail, creativity, and ability to truly listen and bring my vision to life made the entire process feel so personal and special.
I am especially grateful for her kindness and patience during my dress journey.
Her talent is exceptional, but it’s her heart that makes the experience unforgettable. My dress was more than something I wore; it was part of the confidence and joy I will carry with me forever.''
Chantelle
THE INITIAL APPOINTMENT:
Where your dress journey begins:
Over the past 3 decades I have found that bride’s hopes, dreams and fears are still the same. The noise they need to navigate however has increased exponentially. And therefore, my space invites, my rails don’t overwhelm, and my process is calm.
With clarity, precision and intention, we create authentic beauty.
I have recently introduced a unique approach to the first appointment, where sift through your ideas and brainstorm the ideal wedding dress design for you. Because I’ve discovered there is something captivating that happens when an idea or vision is made tangible.
In addition we’ll often pull styles from my existing collection to get a feel for silhouette and the different fabrics.
An appointment for a Bespoke wedding dress comprise of a 90 minute one-on-one consultation.
* Kindly note an appointment fee applies *
FIRST APPOINTMENT
The first appointment forms the foundation from where your dress story unfolds. During our first meeting I love getting to know you and hear your vision for your wedding dress. We go through design details, your likes and dislikes as well as fabric & lace options. If time allows, we’ll finish off with a sketch of your design, outlining details such as colour, use of fabric(s) as well as the finer finishes. Otherwise a sketch will be provided in due course.
After this initial appointment a formal quotation will be sent through for your approval. This quotation will cover all the term, conditions and booking requirements.
ONCE CONFIRMED
Once confirmed via a non-refundable order fee, a production slot will be scheduled according to your wedding date. Fabric and lace allocation will also be done. An appointment for measurements will be scheduled and communicated (if it wasn’t taken at the initial appointment).
As a custom (bespoke) wedding dress is a very personal process where you’ll be supported every step of the way.
A well laid out plan alleviates stress and our brides receive a timeline outlining potential fitting dates etc. Not only does this help in planning other wedding related commitments but it is also helpful in knowing what to expect of the process and when.
Fittings are where your dress story unfolds
FIRST FITTING
This is called a toile / mock-up. It is made from a similar fabric to your dress or from calico. This will give you an overall idea of the silhouette and allows me to tweak the fit and style lines.
The toile is used to finalise the pattern from which your fabric will be cut. Over the course of the fittings you will see your dress develop.
SECOND FITTING
Usually at this point your wedding dress is taking shape and finer detail such as lace is pinned into place.
THIRD FITTING
The lace detail is sewn down for the most part and we measure where your zip will be fitted. Maintaining the same measurements are crucial from here on end.
FOURTH FITTING
The zip is in and your dress is just about complete. We’ll pin the length of your dress so it is very important to bring along your wedding shoes.
Final invoicing will be done and if all goes well you’ll take your dress home with you next time.
FINAL FITTING / COLLECTION DAY
This usually happens 7 – 21 days before your wedding (unless we’ve arranged something different). You try your dress on one last time and take her home with you.
It has been a magical journey and you are now aisle ready. On your way to create those beautiful memories your dress was made for.
BUDGET
The price of a custom Maryke Wedding Dress is design dependent, starting from R29 995+, depending on fabric choice & design details such as hand sewn detail etc. This includes the design & make, fabric as well as 3 – 5 fittings. The current average spend on a bespoke Maryke design ranges between R32 995 – R35 995 and up.
