Your first consultation: what to expect

A first consultation at Gotedaar is free, lasts about an hour and is meant to help you decide, not to sell you something on the spot. Here is what happens, so you can come prepared.

When you arrive, Rachna or one of our two designers sits with you at the design table. We look through your references, whether they are a Pinterest board, a screenshot from a cousin’s wedding or a photograph of your mother’s lehenga. We ask about the dates of your events, the venues, the time of each ceremony and your budget range.

Then we move to the window. Daylight is the most honest light, and we drape six to ten fabrics on you there, in the colours you are considering. We also show embroidery samples, zardozi, gota patti and resham work, on swatches of your chosen fabric.

In the last twenty minutes, the designer sketches your outfit while you watch, changing the neckline, sleeve or border as you talk. You take a photograph of the sketch home. Within three days we send a written quote with fabric, embroidery and fitting costs listed separately. Bring whoever you want to hear from, though three people is usually the most that helps. Wear or bring a blouse that fits you well, so we can judge measurements. If you cannot come to Jaipur, we do the same session on video, and post fabric swatches to you beforehand.