This dress is not for sale it is only shown as a sample of my work.
It was a custom order from a wedding gown for another customer. This dress is a satin dress with a lace overlay on the skirt and top. The sleeves are gathered sheer lace with a small bound edge. I used the skirt bottom with the scallop edge for across the top. The bottom of the skirt also has the scallop edging from the original dress. The entire dress is made from the fabric from the original wedding gown and is fully lined. The back has a zipper which makes it easier to dress a squirming baby. The hat was purchased as a separate custom order.

There are so many things that determine the design of a finished dress. Sometimes I have to work around damaged areas. I have to cut pieces where the design pattern works with the grain of the fabric so the dress hangs properly when finished. Most dresses require taking the dress apart to retrieve lace or bead work. There is always the possibility of using new fabric with some of the design elements of the original dress if I don't have enough original fabric or it is damaged. Small imperfections can sometimes be hidden within the gathers, pleats or under overlays. Every dress is different and makes an original one of a kind dress for a whole new generation.

Custom Orders:
STEP #1: CONTACT ME
To order a custom made Christening gown to be made from your own wedding dress you must contact me before you purchase. Send me pictures of your wedding gown and some idea of what you want and any special requests so I can give you an accurate price. Include the date you need it by, so I can check my calendar, and let me know if you want a bonnet.

STEP #2: PURCHASE A CUSTOM ORDER
I will set up a custom order listing for you to purchase
My schedule changes from day to day. I can't promise something for you until I receive payment. Once you purchase you will be in my schedule.

STEP #3: SHIP YOUR DRESS TO ME
Once I receive your order you will have to ship your wedding gown to me.
I will give you a date when I need to have your dress in order to complete your new dress on time. It should be clean. If you don't want the expense of cleaning it just remember I will have to work around dirty or damaged areas which could limit what can be done. It needs to be wrapped in plastic to protect it from any water staining in transit and you should have it tracked and you may want to insure it. You will have to pay to ship your dress to me. I will not be responsible for any loss or damages during any shipping.

STEP #4: ROUGH SKETCHES
Once I receive your dress I will see what design elements from your dress might look best where and draw up some rough sketches for you. You need to let me know of any special requests you want to incorporate into the design.

STEP #5: CHOOSE YOUR DESIGN

STEP #6: MEASUREMENTS
I will give you a date when I need measurements by in order to have your dress to you on time. You will want to do measurements close to this date.
I will need the chest size directly under the arms, neck, head (if you want a bonnet) and upper arm circumference (bicep). It will also be helpful to know what size your baby is wearing now, the baby's weight and length. Let me know if you have a certain length in mind. I will try to be close to the length you want, but sometimes the length is determined by the size of the design on the original dress. Do not add extra to the measurements. I will add for ease of movement and possible growth. I don't want both of us to do that. Your baby may grow by Christening time. I can make the dress with a little extra room for her to grow, but what I don't want to do is make a dress that is to small.

STEP #7: MAKING THE DRESS
I will be in touch with you throughout the whole process with any questions I may have and send you pictures along the way. I will pin options in place and take pictures for you before I sew. Keep in mind how fast the process goes may depend a lot on your response time to any questions.

STEP#8: YOUR DRESS IS SHIPPED TO YOU
I will send whatever is left of you dress back to you with your completed Christening gown.

Please keep in mind Custom Christening gowns are made from used dresses. There may be slight imperfections. I try to make every effort to use the best parts of a dress and use or place any imperfections where they are not easily noticed. I do my best to check for loose beading and do not like to use buttons unless you insist. Before you purchase please be aware that if your dress has beading or buttons they may be a possible choking hazard to a baby and I will not be held responsible. This dress is meant to be a special occasion dress not a dress you leave your baby in for extended periods of time.

If you like you can see more samples of the quality of work on my website at bobbileiphart.com