Custom Bridal Gowns

From first sketch to final stitch, we craft gowns as extraordinary as the women who wear them.

Book Your Custom Gown Appoinment

Your Vision, Our Craft,

Bespoke. Personal. Made for You.

No Racks, Just Runways

Your wedding gown should feel as unforgettable as your love story. With a custom-designed bridal gown, every detail—from luxurious fabrics to intricate beading—is tailored to your vision and style. During your bridal gown consultation, you’ll experience one-on-one guidance to ensure your gown fits perfectly and highlights your unique shape. Whether you’re local to Hampton Roads or traveling from out of state, your personalized gown experience is designed to make you feel confident, radiant, and perfectly dressed for your big day.

Custom Wedding Gown Process

1. Consultation

(10 -12 months before your wedding date)

In this first step, we connect either in-person or online to explore your favorite styles, silhouettes, and inspirations. From red carpet icons to Disney princesses, we’ll uncover what draws you to a look — whether it reflects your personal style or a beloved dream you've carried for years.

This is your space to share it all — photos, pins, or even a childhood memory. We’re here to listen, not limit.

2. Booking

( starting price 5k)

Once we understand your vision, we help you select the gown experience that fits your needs — from complete custom couture to signature redesigns. Together, we finalize every detail: timelines, fittings, and any add-ons that make your experience feel just right.

3. Sketch

With your story and style in mind, we begin bringing your gown to life on paper. Your custom sketch reflects the unique elements that make your design yours — neckline, structure, embellishment, and silhouette — all rendered with couture-level precision and care.

This is the first time you’ll see your dream take shape — beautifully and unmistakably yours.

4. The Measurements

We take expert measurements to ensure your gown fits like it was made only for you — because it is. Whether measured in our studio or guided virtually, we focus on comfort, movement, and how you want to feel wearing your gown. Every measurement is handled with care, intention, and expert technique.

5. Gown Production

Your gown begins its transformation under the hands of our skilled artisans. Using your custom pattern, we craft your garment layer by layer with couture finishes, hand-draping, and fine detailing. Every stitch is guided by quality and love.

6. Gown Reveal

Your Moment, Captured in Time

The final step — and the most emotional — is the gown reveal. This is the first time you’ll see your full creation in all its glory. We capture your reaction on video, so you can relive the joy, the gasp, the glow… again and again.

It’s not just a dress. It’s the moment you realize you’re becoming a bride.

Custom Gown Rush Fee Policy

To ensure your custom-designed gown receives the time and attention it deserves, we recommend beginning your design process 10–12 months before your wedding. For requests outside this timeline, a 25% rush fee will be applied. This allows us to prioritize your gown while still delivering the luxurious, meticulously crafted dress you envisioned for your special day.

Book Your Custom Gown Appointment Here

Each gown featured in our Custom Gown Gallery reflects the individuality and unique vision of a McEllis Bride. These designs were brought to life based on the personal requests, style preferences, and aesthetic of each client. Please note, your own custom gown will be thoughtfully designed to align with your specific desires — not duplicated from someone else’s. At McEllis Brides, your gown will be as one-of-a-kind as your love story.

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Client Reviews

They did an amazing job bringing my dress design top life. I can’t recommend this place enough
— Racheal C.
Michelle made the entire bridal experience pure joy! The gown was exquisite
— Melony F
The dress I had my heart set on was re-created by Michelle and everything I could dream of. I’m so in love with my dress I’ll have to wear it again some day. It’s just too perfect.
— Sara S

Let’s Begin Designing Your Dream Gown

Limited bookings available for custom design clients

Book Your Custom Gown Appointment