Help customers prepare for a first fitting

Put what to bring before the booking step

Ask customers to bring the garment clean and explain any preparation the shop needs. For trousers, name the shoes they plan to wear with them. If another item affects the fit, such as a shirt worn under a jacket, include it in the instructions for that alteration.

Keep the list beside the fitting request so someone sees it before choosing a day. Invite them to describe what feels wrong in their own words. Explain whether photographs would help with an initial question and that you may still need to see the garment before saying what can be done.

Describe the appointment and the time to allow

Say whether a fitting needs an appointment or whether customers can walk in. Give the usual length for the number of garments you expect to see. Ask people bringing several items to mention that when booking so the appointment can allow for them.

Describe the visit in order: trying on the garment, discussing the change and agreeing on the work. Say where to arrive and whether there is a place to change. Explain how the shop confirms the appointment. The message after a request should make clear whether the proposed time is agreed or still waiting for a reply.

Explain what a starting price covers

Put a price beside each familiar job where you can, such as shortening trousers or adjusting sleeves. If it says “from,” describe the simplest job that figure covers. Name the details that can change it, such as a lining or a finish that needs to be kept.

Explain when the tailor checks the garment and agrees on the full price with the customer. Say whether the fitting or assessment has a charge, including if no work follows. Describe what happens when an alteration is not possible: explain the limitation and discuss any suitable alternative before agreeing on the work. Leave room for the customer to decline.

Separate the fitting from the pickup date

Give a current guide to turnaround and say when the pickup date is agreed. Make clear whether the time starts at the fitting or after the work is approved. Explain whether another fitting may be needed, so customers do not mistake their first appointment for the day the garment will be ready.

Ask for any date the garment is needed by, with a way to mark it as essential. Explain how rush requests are checked and how any extra charge is agreed. Avoid implying that selecting an early date guarantees it. Say how customers hear that work is ready and whom to contact if their plans change.