Weddingbee boards

Hi Hive. I need some help!

So, we're flying with my dress. Since it doesn't have a crinoline and is fairly simple, I was planning to actually pack it in a suitcase. This means I will need it pressed. It is silk shantung, so that means it cannot be steamed. 

I have two options:

1. Nice bridal salon will press it for 100-125. 

2. Reputable cleaner says it can do it for around 30. 

Erm. My gut says go with the cleaner, but I'm nervous that a 30-dollar press job might be just that: a 30 dollar press job. Is 100 dollars for pressing a dress w/o a train, pick-ups, beading, or any other detail a little much? I have no point of reference!

What would you do? TIA!!

Well I was quoted $125 from the local cleaners around here, $175 from the bridal shop, and $35 with my alterations lady (discounted for alterations, otherwise she charges $80). She said with my dress she would lightly iron and also dry steam it, so I am just going to have her do it.

I would ask the local cleaner if it is a combo of ironing and dry steaming or just one or the other. Most wedding dresses require a combo of the two to get it completely wrinkle-free. I would also ask how many wedding dresses they have cleaned. If they aren't familiar with wedding dresses, then I would pay the cost for the bridal shop.

Thanks! The dry cleaners seemed a wee bit nonchalant for my tastes.