My wedding dress & Second dress - The communication is bad and the service disappointing. Unfortunately, I can’t recommend them.

I approached Lara to make my wedding dress and second dress. Quotations were sent, and I paid the 50% deposit (R14 330)

The communication throughout the process was extremely poor - no replies, no effort. When serious matters were discussed, they even used ChatGPT to respond.

I explained that I was upset with their service, as this wasn’t just any dress - it was my wedding dress. I repeatedly asked them to send photos and videos of the progress so I could see that things were on track, but there was no response.

I had my mock-up fitting done in inexpensive fabric (the first fitting) to confirm the cut and pattern. I raised my concerns and clearly explained what needed to change. Afterwards, Lara confirmed that they would now begin with the final dress ("the real deal")

Then, just five days before my second fitting, Lara suddenly sent me a contract to sign (which included conditions and information that were never part of what I received before paying her).

At my second fitting, she told me that this was already the final fabric, and only the lining still needed to be added. I was very unhappy with the material used - it was nothing like what I had requested - and the cut was incorrect. The dress looked rushed and unfinished. After I expressed that I was unhappy and requested my deposit back, I then received messages claiming that this was also just a mock-up.

I want to make it clear that I didn’t suddenly change my mind or decide not to use them without reason - the issue lies entirely with the execution of the dress, which did not match the original discussion, the reference photos, or the expected standard. The examples I sent were clear guidelines that were not followed.

Their version of the process and conditions keeps changing.

I acknowledge that Lara did put in some work, and I have stated that she may deduct her labour costs from the deposit.

Since no work has been started on the second dress, I expect the remaining balance of my deposit to be refunded immediately. (Lara herself confirmed that no fabric has been purchased and no work has started on the second dress.)

I know I’m not the first person to feel this way about their service. It’s disappointing that they cannot take responsibility for their work and customer experience. Clients seem to be the last of their priorities.

Her ready-made pieces sold in-store are truly beautiful, but unfortunately, I cannot recommend her for custom designs.