The Process
Your journey — from first enquiry to your wedding day
From Dream to Reality
Everything you need to know
Having a gown made at Saarahjasmin Couture is a deeply personal journey. We want you to feel completely at ease — so here is everything, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect from the moment you reach out to the moment you walk down the aisle.
Initial Enquiry
Your journey begins when you reach out — via our website, Instagram, WhatsApp or phone. Tell us a little about yourself: your wedding date, your vision, and your budget range. There is no pressure and no judgement at this stage — just a warm conversation. Once we receive your enquiry, we will respond within 24 hours to schedule your first consultation. What to prepare: Your approximate wedding date, a rough idea of your vision (even if it’s vague — that’s perfectly fine), and your budget range.
The Consultation
This is where the magic begins. Your private consultation takes place at our Goodwood studio — a calm, unhurried, one-on-one session entirely focused on you. Bring your Pinterest boards, inspiration images, magazine cut-outs — anything that captures the feeling you are after. During your consultation we will: explore silhouettes and necklines, discuss fabrics and lace, take your measurements, talk through your wedding style and venue, and provide you with a detailed quote. You are never expected to decide on the day. Take your time — this is one of the most important decisions you will make. Consultation fee: R500 with Saarahjasmin. Payable upfront to secure your appointment and is strictly non-refundable. Each session is one hour. Maximum 3 people including the bride. Strictly no children.
Design & Quote Approval
Following your consultation, we prepare a detailed quote that breaks down your gown cost clearly — labour, fabric options, embellishments, and any add-ons. Nothing is hidden. We confirm your desired design, beading placement and silhouette with you before any work begins. Once you are completely happy with the design and quote, we move to production. No surprises: Every detail is agreed upon in writing before production starts. If your vision changes, we discuss it openly — we are always on your side.
Deposit & Production Begins
Once you are happy with your quote and design, an 85% deposit is required to secure your production slot and begin work. Your production date is locked in from this point — this is your gown’s place in our studio. Our skilled team then begins the process of sourcing your chosen fabrics and lace, creating your bespoke pattern, cutting, assembling, and beginning the hand-beading and appliqué work — all done with precision and love. Production time: 4–6 months for bridal gowns · 6–10 weeks for suits & formal wear · 3–6 weeks for occasion wear. Rush orders accepted from R3,500 additional.
Progress & Communication
You are never left wondering. Throughout the production process, we send you photos — at the beginning stages so you can see your gown taking shape, and at key milestones along the way. We want you to feel connected to every step of your gown’s creation.
If anything needs adjusting or you have a change of heart on a detail, this is the time to let us know. Open communication is the foundation of everything we do.
The First Fitting
When your gown is at an advanced stage of production, you will be invited in for your first fitting at our Goodwood studio. This is one of the most exciting moments of the entire journey — you will try on your gown for the first time.
During the fitting we assess the overall fit, make precise notes on any adjustments needed, and discuss the remaining details. It is completely normal for a gown to need adjustments at this stage — this is what fittings are for. Up to three fittings are included in your bespoke journey.
Tip: Bring the underwear and shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day to every fitting — this makes the most difference to the final fit.
Second Fitting
After all adjustments from your first fitting have been completed, you are invited back for your second fitting. This is where the gown truly begins to feel like it was made for you — because it was. The silhouette is refined, the hem is checked, and we ensure every detail sits exactly as intended.
If further refinements are needed, we address them here. Most brides find the second fitting is where they first fall completely in love with their gown.
Remember: Bring your wedding shoes and undergarments to every fitting — they make a significant difference to how the gown sits and hangs.
Final Fitting & Approval
Your final fitting is where everything comes together. All adjustments have been completed and your gown should fit you beautifully. You try it on, we check every detail — from the hem to the bustle, the neckline to the zip — and only when you are 100% happy do we consider it done.
At this fitting, the remaining 15% balance is due before collection.
Collection Day
Your gown is carefully steamed, pressed and packaged for collection. This is the moment everything has been building toward. You walk out of our studio carrying a gown made only for you — entirely yours.
We also offer an on-the-day bridal assistant service, where a Saarahjasmin Couture team member can be with you from getting dressed through to your reception — making sure your gown looks perfect every moment. This service starts from R3,500 depending on hours required.
1
Enquiry
2
Consultation
3 - 5
Design & Deposit
4
Production
5
Progress
6
1st Fitting
7
Final Fit
Your Day
Ready to Begin?
Your gown is waiting to be created.
Book your private consultation at our Goodwood studio and let’s begin your journey together.