Custom Wedding Gowns
Custom Wedding Gowns at Anagrassia
Each Anagrassia wedding gown is made-to-measure, thoughtfully designed, and handcrafted with couture techniques by Mary Grace in her South Bend, Indiana atelier. Whether you're seeking a minimalist silk wedding dress, a dramatic overskirt for a cathedral ceremony, or a custom lace bolero, your vision will be brought to life with care, precision, and timeless craftsmanship.
The Process
1. Inquiry & Consultation
To begin, fill out the custom order form or email Mary Grace directly at marygrace@anagrassia.com with a brief description of your wedding date, vision, and style preferences. When reaching out, please also include a link to a Pinterest board or mood board with inspiration images—this helps Mary Grace quickly understand your aesthetic and determine if the project is a good fit.
If your timeline and vision align with her availability, Mary Grace will schedule a consultation (virtual or in-person) to discuss silhouettes, fabrics, fit, and construction details.
A consultation fee is required. This fee will be applied to your final balance if you move forward with the project.
Please note: It’s ideal to reach out at least 6-12 months in advance. Once the design contract is signed, your spot is reserved in the production calendar. If you request an early delivery date, please keep in mind that sizing often changes close to the wedding. Any fit-related changes made after the final gown is delivered are not included in the original price and will be billed separately as bridal alterations.
2. Design & Materials
Once the design direction is confirmed, Mary Grace will source fine materials—such as French lace, pure silks, Italian textiles, American wool, and specialty linings. A final sketch will be shared for review. Once materials are selected, a detailed quote will be provided and a 50% deposit is required to begin.
Clients should have a clear vision before beginning. Mary Grace strongly recommends trying on dresses at boutiques before scheduling a custom gown. There are additional charges if major design changes are made after signing the contract. (Mary Grace is happy to make small tweaks or additions, but complete design overhauls incur additional labor and material fees.)
3. Moulage & Mockups
Mary Grace will draft a custom moulage (a couture-fitting shell) using your measurements. Local clients will be fit in-person, while long-distance brides may receive mock-ups by mail. Multiple fittings may be needed to ensure the final silhouette is perfect before cutting into the final fabrics.
Live fittings at the Anagrassia Atelier are highly recommended and a meaningful part of the process. We're located near the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. Many clients plan their fittings around Notre Dame events or turn them into a mini-retreat to prepare for the sacrament of marriage.
4. Construction
Your gown is handcrafted from start to finish using couture sewing techniques. Mary Grace may incorporate inner corsetry, hand-sewn finishes, and precise tailoring depending on the design. Local fittings are scheduled at key milestones, or video check-ins are provided for long-distance brides.
5. Final Fitting & Delivery
Final fittings typically take place 2–3 weeks before your wedding date. For non-local brides, we’ll build in extra time for adjustments and shipping. Once the gown is complete, it’s steamed and prepared for pickup or delivery. Final balance is due before pickup or shipment.
Preferred payment is cash, Venmo, or check. Credit card payments will incur a processing fee.
Estimated Cost Guide
Final pricing depends on the design complexity, fabric selection, and number of fittings. Below are general starting points:
Garment | Starting Price | Materials | Labor Estimate |
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Simple Silk Wedding Gown | $3,000+ | 100% silk crepe, lyocell lining | 40–60 hrs |
Gown with Lace Overlay | $4,000+ | Alençon lace, silk lining | 60–90 hrs |
Gown with Removable Overskirt | $5,000+ | Silk gazar, satin, tulle | 70–100 hrs |
Custom Corset Only | $950+ | Boning, coutil, silk lining | 15–25 hrs |
Cape or Bolero | $650+ | Silk/wool, leather buttons, silk lining | 10–20 hrs |
Bridal Cocktail Dress (Reception or Rehearsal) | $850+ | Silk fabrics, optional inner corset, couture finishes | 25–40 hrs |
Heirloom Remake Cocktail Dress (from Mother's Gown) | $800+ | Price depends on inner construction and materials needed | Varies |
Heirloom Wedding Gown (from Mother's Gown) | $3,400+ | Includes restoration; price depends on construction and materials | Varies |
All prices reflect design, labor, and basic fittings. Fabric upgrades, rush orders, or international shipping may add to the total.
Timeline & Availability
Ideally, custom bridal projects begin 6–12 months before the wedding. Shorter timelines may be possible depending on the time of year and the complexity of the design.
The Anagrassia Standard
What sets Mary Grace’s bridal work apart:
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Couture techniques (moulage, hand tailoring, internal structure)
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Natural luxury fabrics sourced globally
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One-on-one collaboration with the designer
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Garments made to last and preserve as family heirlooms
For press inquiries, rush orders, or unique collaborations, please contact Mary Grace at marygrace@anagrassia.com.