Frequently Asked Questions
Your wedding dress deserves the same care and attention it was created with. Whether you’re planning to clean, preserve, or alter your gown, we’re here to make every step simple, transparent, and worry-free.
Wedding Dress Dry Cleaning
What’s the difference between wedding dress dry cleaning and wet cleaning?
Our dry cleaning is ideal for gowns with delicate fabrics, lace, or heavy beading, as it allows us to treat each dress gently and individually. Wet cleaning, on the other hand, is water-based and works well for fabrics that can handle moisture, making it especially effective for removing stains like sweat, makeup, or wine
How soon after my wedding should I clean my gown?
It’s best to bring your gown in within one to two weeks of your wedding to prevent invisible stains like sweat, oils, or champagne from setting and becoming harder to remove.
Can you remove tough stains like red wine, dirt on the hem, or makeup?
Yes! Our gentle hand-cleaning techniques target even the most stubborn stains while protecting delicate fabrics and lace.
Do you also clean veils and accessories?
Absolutely. We carefully clean veils, gloves, shawls, and other bridal accessories.
Do I need an appointment?
No appointment is required. You’re welcome to stop by anytime during business hours or schedule a convenient pickup.
servation. Brides can choose between a wedding chest preservation box or a muslin bag for long-term storage.
How long does the process take?
Turnaround time is typically 2–6 weeks, depending on the service (cleaning only vs. cleaning + preservation + alterations). Rush options are available.
Wedding Dress Wet Cleaning
Is wet cleaning safe for all types of gowns?
Wet cleaning is gentle yet effective for most gowns made of natural or washable fabrics like silk, satin, chiffon, and cotton. For heavily beaded or ultra-delicate dresses, we may recommend dry cleaning instead after a full inspection.
Will wet cleaning shrink or damage my dress?
No. Our process uses purified water, controlled temperature, and pH-balanced detergents specifically designed for delicate fabrics to prevent shrinking or distortion.
Does wet cleaning remove odors?
Absolutely. It’s one of the best methods for eliminating lingering odors such as sweat, perfume, or smoke while leaving the gown fresh and clean.
Is wet cleaning eco-friendly?
Yes. Wet cleaning is a sustainable, non-toxic alternative to traditional dry cleaning that uses biodegradable, water-based solutions instead of harsh chemicals.
What happens if my gown has both delicate and washable materials?
We use a hybrid method: hand-cleaning certain areas while wet-cleaning others, to ensure every part of your dress receives the safest care possible.
Do you clean accessories too?
Sure, we also clean veils, gloves, and shawls using gentle, fabric-safe methods.
Do I need an appointment?
No appointment needed — just visit during business hours or book a pickup.
Wedding Dress Preservation Boxes (Wedding Chest)
What is the difference between a Wedding Chest and a Muslin Bag?
A Wedding Chest is an acid-free, archival-quality box that protects your gown from light, dust, and humidity, ideal for long-term preservation. A Muslin Bag is breathable and allows airflow while keeping your dress safe, perfect for easier access or hanging storage.
Do you clean the dress before preservation?
We offer professional dry or wet cleaning as an optional step before preservation, ensuring your gown is spotless and fresh.
How long does the preservation process take?
If the gown is being preserved without cleaning, the process takes about one week. If cleaning is needed, the standard turnaround is 2–6 weeks, depending on the service and packaging options.
Do I need an appointment for wedding dress preservation in San Diego?
No appointment is required. You can drop off your gown during business hours or schedule a convenient pickup.
Can I see my gown before it’s preserved?
Of course. Brides are always welcome to inspect their gown before final sealing or boxing. We believe in full transparency and want you to feel completely confident before your dress is stored or displayed.
Do you offer a guarantee for preservation?
Yes! Our preservation service comes with a lifetime guarantee against yellowing, fabric damage, or deterioration.
Wedding Dress Muslin Bag
What is a muslin bag?
A muslin bag is a breathable, 100% cotton storage cover designed to protect your wedding gown while allowing gentle airflow. Unlike plastic garment bags, which can trap moisture and cause yellowing, muslin is acid-free, soft, and natural, helping your gown stay fresh and beautiful over time.
It’s ideal for brides who want safe, accessible storage, allowing you to easily view or handle your gown while keeping it protected from dust, light, and humidity.
How long can I store my gown in a muslin bag?
With proper cleaning and a climate-controlled environment (60–70°F / 15–21°C and 40–60% humidity), your gown can remain pristine for 20–50 years. We recommend checking it every 1–2 years.
Should my gown be cleaned before storage?
Yes. We recommend always having your gown professionally cleaned before storing it in a muslin bag to prevent hidden stains or oils from setting into the fabric over time.
Can I use a muslin bag for other garments besides my wedding dress?
Absolutely. Muslin bags are excellent for protecting delicate fabrics like veils, evening gowns, christening dresses, or other heirloom garments.
How should I store the muslin bag once my gown is inside?
Keep the bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, or moisture. Avoid hanging it for long periods if your gown is heavy; instead, lay it flat in a storage area.
What makes a muslin bag better than a plastic garment bag?
Unlike plastic, muslin is breathable and acid-free, allowing air circulation and preventing yellowing, mold, and trapped moisture that can damage your gown over time.
Wedding Dress Alterations
What is a wedding dress alteration?
A wedding dress alteration is a personalized process that transforms your gown into a perfect reflection of you. Our expert seamstresses refine every detail, from the fit of the bodice to the flow of the train, ensuring your dress moves gracefully and feels effortless from the first step down the aisle to the last dance of the night
When should I schedule my first alteration appointment?
We recommend scheduling your first fitting 2–3 months before your wedding date. This allows time for multiple fittings and precise adjustments without feeling rushed.
How many fittings will I need?
Most brides require 2–3 fittings, though this may vary depending on the complexity of your gown and the type of adjustments.
Can you alter designer or vintage gowns?
Yes. Our experts are experienced with all gown types, including delicate lace, silk, beading, and couture designs, ensuring your dress is handled with utmost care.
Do you offer rush alterations?
Yes, we accommodate tight timelines whenever possible. Please contact us directly to confirm availability.
Can I customize my dress during the alteration process?
Our Difference
What services do you provide for wedding dresses in San Diego?
We specialize in wedding dress alterations, dry cleaning, wet cleaning, preservation, and customization. Brides can also choose between our wedding chest or muslin bag for long-term storage after the big day.
What makes your wedding dress cleaning and preservation different?
With over 21 years of experience, we bring unmatched expertise to every gown we handle. As a women-owned business, we understand the emotional value of your dress and treat it with the same care we would our own. Unlike many cleaners who outsource, all of our inspection, cleaning, and preservation is done in-house by trained specialists. Our goal is to make the process simple, stress-free, and trustworthy, so your dress is restored as closely as possible to its original beauty and preserved for generations to come.
Do you guarantee your services?
Absolutely. Our preservation service includes a lifetime guarantee against yellowing, fabric damage, or deterioration. Every gown we handle is treated with meticulous care and expert craftsmanship, so you can have complete peace of mind knowing your dress will remain just as radiant for years to come.
Are your methods eco-friendly?
Yes. We use sustainable, non-toxic cleaning processes and archival-quality materials safe for both your gown and the planet.
Do you work with designer or couture gowns?
Yes. Our team has extensive experience handling luxury, couture, and vintage gowns, including those with intricate lace, beadwork, or delicate embroidery. We use safe, tested methods to protect each detail without compromise.