Country Threads by Gail 194 Doe Run Road Manheim, PA 17545. P: (717) 665-3711

For this Ask and Tell, I had the opportunity to sit and chat with Gail, owner of Country Threads by Gail. The shop was busy, Gail kept working on a gown as we spoke. She was so articulate about her trade, really made the interview process easy for me. We all know I’m no Barbara Walters.

How long have you been in the bridal business?
My mom made custom gowns and as a child, I used to help her. Then in sixth grade, I started hand beading wedding gowns. Professionally, I’ve been making custom clothes since 1980 and worked for different bridal stores since 1982.

How far in advance should a bride order her wedding gown from you?
Six months to a year is typical. But for the brides who tend to change their mind, a minimum of three months is plenty of time for us to work on their gown.

What advice would you give a bride who wants to have her dress custom-made?
Go to a large bridal store and try on lots of different styles, tops and bottoms. So when we design you a dress, you’ll know what you like and what fits your body type best.

What should a bride bring for her first consultation?
Shoes and undergarments. If you’re thinking of going with a strapless dress, bring a strapless bra so we can get the perfect measurements for your alterations.

Are some wedding dress materials more difficult to alter?
Yes, the chiffons are more difficult. Most of the time, manufacture will trim the seams really close on their chiffon, so you don’t have a lot of flexibility unlike satin dresses.

What is the best way to bustle a heavy train?
French bustle because it gives a bride more support than a traditional bustle. A traditional bustle is pulled up on the outside of the dress and the French bustle is hooked up underneath.

Any last words or advice?
Don’t rule out a dress, try it on. You never know, it might be the one dress you were looking for.

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