Initial Appointment
Begin your bridal journey with us by booked in your bridal consultation. Once booked we will reach out with a request to fill out our pre-consult form. This is were we can gather information we need ahead of your appointment and gives you an opportunity to share inspiration images as well as anything else you would like us to know prior to your appointment.
Consultation
Begin with a private consultation in our Melbourne studio. You'll slip into our ready-to-wear styles, discuss your vision, and collaborate with our team to explore what speaks to you. We'll guide you toward the best option, whether that's a piece from our collection, or a bespoke design. You’re welcome to take photos for you to review following your appointment and we will give you fabric swatches of your favourite colours to help with the decision.
You can book a bridal consultation through our website here (insert link). Appointments are limited so booking in advance is recommended.
Consider
Take some time to reflect on your appointment, which pieces resonated, what details and direction feels right. Our team keep meticulous notes on everything we discussed, so when you're ready to move forward, you can simply reach out with your decision.
Once you have settled on direction email the team at info@vanderkooij.com.au and we will come back to you with a quote.
Quote
Once you've decided on your direction, email us and we'll provide a detailed quote tailored to your specific request. We keep quotes bespoke because every piece is unique. Our ready-to-wear pricing offers a reference point, but custom designs are priced individually.
Commitment
If you would like to proceed a 50% deposit is required to secure your place on our production schedule. As a small, dedicated team creating every piece in our Melbourne studio, we take on a limited number of brides each month. To guarantee your spot and lock in your timeline, we recommend having your piece locked in a minimum of six months before your wedding. The earlier you commit, the better.
Measurements
We approach measurements differently. We take them as close as possible to your wedding date. This is ideally 3 - 4 months before your wedding date or event. This ensures the most accurate fit. We will arrange this appointment for measurements based on your requested completion date.
For Interstate or international clients a measurements chart can be provided of the measurement points required. This can be taken to a local tailor/seamstress or alteration specialist for your measurements to be taken.
Fitting
First fitting occurs approximately 8–10 weeks before your event. Your pieces will be unfinished at this stage, this is where the real craft happens. Our team will refine the fit, work through any final details and finalise hem length. Please bring your shoes to this appointment so we can determine the exact hem length.
Final Fittings & Collection
Depending on your dress style, you'll have between 1–3 fittings. We'll make any final adjustments needed, and arrange a collection time that works for you.
Standard Size: If you fall in love with one of our ready to wear designs, you can order directly through our website. We carry limited stock of some styles and colours, if the piece you are after is not in stock made-to-order lead times apply (currently 6–8 weeks). If any alterations are required on any standard size pieces these will need to be taken elsewhere, we don’t provide alterations on standard size pieces.