Brides - please be aware of hidden fees as Wizard of Needles were not transparent or forthcoming about costs. Interestingly, this ordeal of finding an honest tailor was the most stressful part of the wedding process (not the dress shopping, venue or guest list.
I contacted Lana (owner) and was able to schedule an appointment the following day and was beaming that I was able to score an appointment so quickly. Perhaps, that should be the first sign. At first glance, this tiny alteration shop was great. There were plenty of street parking and the space located on the second floor was clean. Lana was professional. However, I left feeling quite upset as I couldn't help feeling like I was misled and ripped off.
I was quoted $375 to hem the bottom of my wedding dress and add a small waist belt. Although this quote (in my opinion) was not "competitive" by any means as Lana claimed. The low rating is not due to the cost as I believe that each tailor should charge the amount they feel is warranted for their work. Rather, it was the hidden $25 fitting fee that irks me. This fee was never once disclosed to me - during my initial call with Lana to set up the appointment nor was it mentioned on their website. In fact, Lana did not even mention this fee until I was changed and ready to leave, which I find very deceiving. Had she mentioned this fee even at the start of our appointment, I would feel more justified. The appointment was scheduled within normal business hours at a time-block she chose. Lana never even used any pins to mark the alteration, which illustrates minimal effort on her end.
Overall, I was very disappointed with my experience due to the lack of dishonesty on their part. Even if the $25 fitting fee was deductible, the high cost and lack of transparency does not compel me to return to give them my business. I ended up going to Lilianne's Bridal, which cost half the price. Lilianne was sweet, attentive, and has over 34 years of experience. More importantly, honest...which goes along way for any business. read more