Weddingbee boards

This is the inspiration photo I sent to him of my dream dress. I borrowed this photo from mybigfatbeautifulwedding.com. They also make custom replica dresses, however I wasn't willing to pay $600 for a dress. For me, that kind of defeats the purpose of buying a replica. I did a lot of research and decided to go with Jeff Liu because of the good reviews I've read on him. I understand a bride on WB had a bad experience with him, however I was willing to take the risk with all the positive reviews I've seen. I emailed Jeff Liu on April 23rd with the photos. Jeff Liu emailed me back the next day with a quote. My dress would cost $200 US, including shipping. He sends you a measurement form to fill out or you can buy a stock size. I went custom since I am very curvy and not a stock size. He labels your dress as a "gift" so he takes care of customs charges which is very nice. His English is good and they get back to you quickly, usually within a few hours. I asked for the same exact dress, just with lace cap sleeves added, and I'm very happy with the way it turned out. It fits like a glove and won't need any alterations whatsoever. The sewing and details get an A++. The fabric quality gets a B, and the overall match to my vision gets an A++++. My wedding is in October, but I gave him a fake date in August. That gave him more than enough time to make a quality product without rushing, as well as not forget about me because my wedding was months away. I emailed him every week or two weeks, and was always very polite. I think the secret to ordering a replica dress is finding the right person, and also being really patient.

Things to remember when ordering from Jeff Liu:

- Be specific. If lace is your favorite thing about your dress you want made, make sure to ask for good quality lace. Even though you send a photo, your dress will end up looking about 90% identical to the photo. Make sure that 90% includes your favorite parts.

- Be overly nice. I'm sure his email inbox is filled with emails from snarky brides making threats and WRITING IN ALL CAPS BECAUSE THEY THINK THIS WILL GET THEM FARTHER. Wrong. When he comes across your "sweeter than honey" email, he will go above and beyond to make you happy.

- Make sure you contact, email, and buy from him through Ebay. Ask him to make you a custom listing with a photo of your dress. This protects you both through Ebay and Paypal, as well as gives him accountability because ultimately his business thrives off of feedback left by past brides. He will want to give you a quality dress because he wants you to say great things about him and his business.

- Make sure to ask for photos before he ships. He will give you a deadline like, "3 days photos". Give him those three days and then ask again. Don't be rude or pushy, just don't let him forget about you. If your wedding is less than four months away, this option is not a good one for you because it doesn't give you wiggle room. You may or may not need alterations when you receive the dress.

- There are a lot of people who won't order from China replica makers due to the fear of paying into a sweatshop. Seamstresses in China are crafty, proud of their trade, and work for good wages in their country. I lived in Asia for many years as a child and if you are a skilled seamstress, you make good money. I understand that sweatshops exist, I am not denying that, however a six year old couldn't recreate a wedding dress from a photo. If you get a bad gut feeling though, definitely go with your .

Don't freak out if your dress comes in this (below)

*please excuse the fact that I have no makeup on, my hair is a disaster, and the dress is very wrinkly because it arrived in this! :

@Ryna: Thank you very much. It's funny because I actually followed your and another Bees thread about your replicas. I LOVE YOURS. It is so unique and fits your perfectly.

Thank you everyone for the compliments, very sweet of you.

Thank you everyone! I was really hoping to help some brides out there who are thinking about buying a replica dress but are unsure or are scared. I had this bright white, hideous David's Bridal dress that I bought because I didn't think we could afford anything else. (were paying for the wedding ourselves) I was SO unhappy and didn't want to walk down in the aisle in something hideous. I can't promise everyone a perfect experience to every one, but I think every girl deserves their dream dress, regardless of the price tag. The bridal industry is cruel to your bank account! If you're head over heals for that Vera Wang, than go for it, just do your research and be smart! Good luck ladies.

@adw2c: Thank you for your kind words. I am very very sorry that your situation wasn't a pleasant one. I never got to see the dress, however I have read your posts concerning it. I think that your positive attitude is amazing and I wish more people were like you!

@sivette30: Thank you! I have an ivory birdcage veil that I am toying with, or I may just go with nothing at all. I've always loved mantilla veils, however I have too many accessories and it would get very busy looking IMO.

@adw2c: OMG flattering thank you. Actually I had just woken up hahaha! The doorbell woke me up early this morning and surprise my dress was here. My hair is always a mess, I look like the lady from South Park who has birds and stuff in it.

I really love this dress!! Congrats, it looks gorgeous on you!

@bunnyfoofoo, organizedbride11, & rachgirl82: Thank you so much!

thanks everyone. i really appreciate the kind words and compliments it is very encouraging. if any brides have questions about ordering a dress please feel free to pm me. id be glad to answer your questions or help you find an answer if i dont have it. good luckm