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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about bridal consultations, custom and ready bridal, timelines, fittings, investment, and travelling to us.

Questions

Appointments & Consultations

Is the bridal consultation free?

Yes, completely. Your first consultation is complimentary, no strings attached. We just ask that you book in advance so we can set aside enough time for you and prepare the right pieces.

How do I book a bridal consultation?

You can book through our website using the "Book a Bridal Consultation" button, or reach out to us directly by phone or email. We'll confirm your date, ask a few questions about your wedding, and have everything ready before you arrive.

How long does a bridal consultation take?

Typically an hour and a half to two hours, depending on how many outfits you want to explore and how many ceremonies you're planning. We'd rather take our time than rush you through.

Who should I bring to my appointment?

Bring whoever you trust most and who knows your style; one or two people is usually ideal, so the focus stays on you. South Asian bridal decisions are family decisions, and our team speaks Urdu, so bring your mother in whatever language she is most at home in.

What should I bring to my bridal consultation?

Bring any inspiration photos you've saved, a sense of your budget range, and the date of your first ceremony. If you've already chosen your venue or colours, those details help too. Comfortable undergarments and hair pulled up make trying on easier.

Do you offer virtual consultations?

Yes, and they're free. We meet on FaceTime or Instagram video, wherever you are. Many out-of-town brides start this way before visiting in person to finalize. Book a virtual consultation.

Can I walk in without an appointment?

For ready-to-wear pieces, yes. For bridal and groom appointments, we work by appointment only so we can give you the proper attention. Walk-ins for bridal may have to wait or reschedule, so booking ahead is always the better experience.

Do I need to know my budget before the appointment?

You don't need a precise number, but having a range in mind helps us pull the right pieces for you. We never want to show you something you fall in love with that doesn't work for you practically. Being honest with us about your range lets us do our job properly.

Do you offer appointments on weekends?

Yes. Our Toronto flagship is open Saturdays and Sundays. Saturday hours are 12 to 7, and Sunday hours are 12 to 6. Tuesday to Friday we're open 1 to 7, and we're closed on Mondays. Weekends do fill up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.

Questions

Custom Bridal

How does the custom bridal process work?

You start with a consultation where we discuss your vision, ceremonies, and timeline. From there, our design team develops concepts, you approve fabrics and embroideries, and we begin construction. When your outfit arrives in store we book your delivery and fitting appointment: if it fits well, you take it home that day, and if it needs alterations there is usually one more visit.

How long does a custom bridal outfit take?

Custom bridal takes three to four months from the date of deposit, fittings included, depending on the outfit and design. That timeline allows for sourcing the right fabrics (many come from Karachi), proper construction, embroidery, and your one or two fittings. Rushing this process affects quality, and quality is the whole point.

Can I get a custom piece made in less than three months?

Sometimes, depending on the complexity of the design and the current production schedule. Rush timelines may involve additional costs and some limitations on embroidery detail. Be upfront about your date at your first consultation and we'll tell you honestly what's possible.

Can I bring my own design or inspiration photos?

Yes, and most clients do. We love starting with your inspiration and working with you to develop something original. We won't copy another designer's work directly, but we can take the aesthetic, the colour, the silhouette, and the feeling you're drawn to and build from there.

Where are custom pieces made?

Our designs are made in Karachi by our karigar (master artisans), who do the construction and hand embroidery at Noori House and in workshops across the city. This is the heart of what Karigur is. The work is then brought to Toronto for final alterations and finishing.

How many fittings are included in custom bridal?

Normally one or two. When your outfit arrives in store we book your delivery and fitting appointment. If it fits well, you take it home that day. If it needs alterations, there is usually one more visit. We'll walk you through what to expect at your consultation.

Can I make design changes after we've started?

Minor changes are possible in the early stages. Once embroidery has begun or fabric has been cut, significant design changes are not feasible and may incur additional costs. This is why we spend time getting the design right at the start.

Will my outfit look exactly like the sample or inspiration image?

Handmade pieces have natural variation, and that's part of what makes them special. We'll align on the silhouette, colour story, and embroidery style together. The exact weight of a thread or the slight shift in a colour from screen to fabric is something every bridal client should understand going in.

Questions

Ready Bridal & Availability

What does "ready bridal" mean at Karigur?

Ready bridal pieces are fully constructed outfits available for you to try on and take home. They're not off-the-rack in a department store sense: they're made to our standards, in our fabrics. If you'd like one altered, we connect you with trusted master seamstresses. The difference from custom is that they exist now, not three to four months from now.

Can I try on ready bridal pieces before buying?

Yes, that's exactly how it works. You come in for an appointment, we pull relevant pieces based on your vision and date, and you try them on in the studio. Nothing is sold blind.

How long do alterations take on a ready bridal piece?

Alterations on ready bridal pieces, usually hems, waists and blouse fittings, are done by trusted master seamstresses we connect you with. In an urgent rush they can be done in as little as a day or two, but ideally allow about two weeks. Custom orders are different: their alterations are covered by the house.

Are all the pieces I see online available in-store?

Not necessarily. Some pieces are available for immediate try-on; others need to be ordered. Our website reflects current inventory, but availability can change. The best way to confirm is to contact us before your visit.

Can I purchase a ready bridal piece and also add customization?

In some cases, yes. Depending on the piece and what you want changed, we can discuss what's feasible. This is something to raise at your consultation so we can give you an honest answer.

Questions

Pricing & Investment

How much does a bridal outfit cost at Karigur?

Every Karigur bridal is priced on its own, because the handwork, fabric and customization differ from piece to piece. As a guide, in Canadian dollars: Ready Bridal $1,500 to $4,000, Custom Bridal $4,000 to $9,000, and a Signature Commission $9,000 to $15,000+. Your exact investment is shared in your consultation, and if you tell us what you have in mind beforehand we'll give you an honest indication. Our bridal investment guide explains what moves a piece within these ranges.

Why don't you show a price on each piece?

Because no two bridals carry the same handwork, and a single number on a page can't show the difference between a lightly embroidered lehenga and a fully handworked one. We'd rather show you in person. The ranges above give you a starting point.

Do I need to pay a deposit to start my custom order?

Yes. Once you've finalized your design and we're ready to proceed, a deposit is required to begin. The details of the deposit structure are discussed and agreed upon during your consultation. Every custom and in-store order is governed by our Purchase Agreement & Terms of Sale.

How do I know if your price is fair compared to other designers?

That's a fair question, and the honest answer is that you should compare based on craftsmanship, not just the number. Ask what's handmade versus machine-made, where the embroidery is done, and what the alteration policy is. We're confident in our work and happy to explain exactly what goes into a piece.

Questions

Timelines & Planning

How early should I start shopping for my bridal outfit?

Custom bridal takes three to four months from the date of deposit, fittings included, depending on the outfit and design, and earlier is always better. That gives us enough time for design, production, shipping, and fittings without stress. If your date is closer than that, contact us and we'll tell you what options are realistic.

I have multiple ceremonies. How do you handle that?

Many of our clients are dressing for three to five ceremonies: Nikkah, Mehndi, Baraat, Walima, and sometimes a reception or engagement. We can plan all of it together in one consultation. Having the full picture helps us coordinate outfits so everything looks intentional as a set.

Can I book if my wedding is two years away, or my date isn't set yet?

Yes, and the same if your date isn't set yet. Starting early gives custom bridal more creative room, and we can explore styles now and move quickly once your date is confirmed.

My wedding is in three months. Is it too late?

For ready bridal, three months is workable, including time for any alterations with a seamstress. For a fully custom piece, three months is the short end of our usual three to four months from the date of deposit, and whether it works depends on the outfit and design. Contact us right away so we can assess what's realistic.

Questions

Alterations & Fittings

How many fittings will I have?

Normally one or two. For custom bridal, we book your delivery and fitting appointment as soon as your outfit arrives in store: if it fits well, you take it home that day, and if it needs alterations there is usually one more visit. For ready bridal, any alteration fittings are arranged with the master seamstress we connect you with.

Can you alter a bridal outfit I didn't buy from Karigur?

We cover alterations on custom pieces we make for you. For other garments, including ones bought elsewhere, we connect you with trusted master seamstresses.

What if I lose or gain weight before the wedding?

It happens to almost everyone. Your fitting is where we check the fit on you, and alterations are part of the process. If there's a significant change, reach out early so we can adjust the plan.

Questions

The Karachi Studio & Noori House

Can I book an appointment at the Karachi studio?

Yes. Noori House is our Karachi bridal studio and it's available by private appointment. If you're based in Pakistan, visiting family in Karachi, or traveling through, you can book directly. It's not a walk-in store, but private appointments are very much welcome.

What is Noori House?

Noori House is our home in Karachi, where Karigur began. It's the production heart of the brand, where our karigar work, and also a bookable bridal studio. It's also been used as a film and photography venue, with a connection to the production of Suno Chanda. For brides, it's a deeply personal and private place to meet us.

Is Noori House a retail store?

No. It's a private studio and atelier, not a retail space. Visits are by appointment only and are focused on bridal consultations or commissioned work.

Who is the Karachi studio for?

For brides based in Pakistan, brides visiting from North America or elsewhere, and anyone who wants to experience the brand at its source. If you're doing an international trip and Karachi is on your route, it's worth building an appointment around.

Is the quality the same whether I order from Toronto or Karachi?

Yes. Custom work from both studios is made by the same karigars, at Noori House and in workshops across Karachi. The craftsmanship is the same regardless of where the consultation happens.

Questions

U.S. & Out-of-Town Brides

I'm in the U.S. Can I work with Karigur?

Yes. We work with brides across North America and ship to U.S. addresses. Virtual consultations are a lovely way to start, and many U.S. brides visit Toronto at least once for a fitting. We also hold trunk shows from time to time.

Do you offer trunk shows in the U.S.?

We do plan U.S. trunk shows periodically. Follow us or sign up to hear about upcoming dates and cities. If there's enough interest in your area, it influences where we go.

I'm in Vancouver or Calgary. Can I work with you remotely?

Absolutely. Virtual consultations work well for the early stages. For fittings, some clients travel to Toronto, and in some cases we can coordinate fittings locally during our visits to other cities.

Questions

Shipping & Delivery

Will I have to pay customs or import duties on my order?

Any customs duties, import taxes or brokerage fees are the customer's responsibility. Details are in our Shipping Policy.

Do you ship internationally outside of North America?

Yes. We make and ship custom orders around the world, and your consultant will walk you through delivery for your country.

How is the garment packed for shipping?

Bridal garments are carefully packed to prevent creasing and damage in transit. We use protective materials and appropriate packaging based on the type of garment. We'll give you any special care instructions for unpacking.

How long does shipping take?

Within Canada, most shipments arrive within three to seven business days. U.S. shipments typically take five to ten business days. International timelines vary. We'll provide tracking information for every shipment.

Questions

Returns, Exchanges & Garment Care

Can I return a custom bridal outfit?

Custom pieces are non-returnable. They're made specifically for you, with your measurements and chosen design. This is standard practice in the bridal industry and we're transparent about it from the start.

Can I return a ready bridal piece?

Ready bridal purchases are also final sale given the nature of the alterations involved. If there's a quality concern, we absolutely want to know and will address it directly.

What if something is wrong with my garment when it arrives?

Contact us immediately. We stand behind our work and will make it right. Don't attempt repairs with a third party before speaking with us, as that can complicate the resolution.

How should I care for my bridal outfit?

Dry clean only, and ideally with a dry cleaner experienced in South Asian bridal fabrics and embroidery. Store flat or loosely folded in breathable fabric, not plastic. We'll give you specific care instructions with your garment. If you plan to preserve it long-term, proper acid-free box storage is worth the investment.

Questions

Groom & Family

Do you dress grooms?

Yes. We do sherwanis, bandhgalas, and other formal menswear for grooms and the wedding party. Groom appointments work the same way as bridal, by appointment, with custom and ready options available.

Can we coordinate the bride and groom outfits?

Absolutely, and we recommend it. Coming in together or sharing reference images from both sides helps us make sure the overall look feels intentional. It's one of our favourite parts of the process.

Do you dress the wider bridal party, like sisters and mothers?

Yes, in many cases. We can coordinate outfits for the mother of the bride, sisters, and family members who want to be part of the aesthetic. Reach out and we can discuss what's possible based on your timeline.

My groom isn't sure what he wants. Can you help him?

Yes. We've dressed a lot of grooms who came in with no idea and left with something they were genuinely excited about. We ask the right questions, understand the vibe, and work from there.

Questions

Jewellery & Accessories

Do you offer bridal jewellery?

Yes. We carry South Asian bridal jewellery, including kundan, polki and contemporary statement pieces, chosen to pair with our bridals, and we make custom sets to match your outfit in five to eight weeks. It's easiest when we can see the jewellery and the outfit together.

Do you offer maang tikka, naths, and traditional pieces?

Yes. We carry traditional South Asian bridal accessories including maang tikka, nath, jhoomar, and bangles, depending on current inventory. Availability varies, so it's best to discuss this during your consultation.

Questions

About Karigur & the Name

What does "Karigur" mean?

Karigur comes from the Urdu word "karigar," meaning a master craftsperson or artisan. It's a tribute to the hands that make the work. Every piece we make is built by skilled karigar, and the name is a direct acknowledgment of that.

How long has Karigur been around?

Hina Rizvi has designed bridals since 1989, first under her own name and, since 2015, as Karigur, named for the karigars whose hands make every piece. Nearly 3,800 brides have worn her work, and she still leads the house as its head designer.

Who is the founder?

Hina Rizvi founded Karigur. She has been working with South Asian brides for over 35 years, and the approach she's built is personal, relationship-led, and grounded in genuine craft.

Where are you based?

Karachi is home. Our headquarters and bridal studio are at Noori House in DHA, Karachi. Our North American flagship is in Toronto (physical address in Mississauga). We serve brides across both cities and beyond.

What is the Noori House connection to Suno Chanda?

Noori House served as a filming location during the production of Suno Chanda, which is something the property has a quiet connection to. It's a warm part of the home's story.

Why Toronto and Karachi?

Because that's where our brides are. Toronto has one of the largest South Asian communities in North America, and Karachi is where Karigur began. "Two studios you can walk into, Karachi and Toronto" is exactly what we mean.

Questions

Hindu, Sikh & Indian Brides

Do you dress Hindu and Sikh brides?

Yes, always. We dress South Asian brides from every background, whether you're planning a Hindu wedding, a Sikh Anand Karaj or a blend of traditions. Bridal lehengas are one of our specialties, in reds, pinks, corals or whatever palette speaks to you, ready or custom.

Do you make sarees?

Yes, we can work with sarees for bridal and for family members. Whether you need a full bridal saree look or a coordinated saree for the mother of the bride, reach out and we can discuss what we can do.

Can you help me dress for multiple functions, like a Sangeet, Mehndi, and Haldi?

Yes, planning across multiple functions is something we do regularly. Mehndi, Sangeet, Haldi, the ceremony, the reception, they all call for something different, and we can help you build a coherent set of looks across them all.

Is the craftsmanship the same for Indian bridal as it is for Pakistani bridal?

Yes. The karigar in Karachi who make our work are skilled in the traditions that span the subcontinent, including the heavy zardozi and gota work used across Indian bridal, the fine chikankari associated with Lucknow, and the rich silk and velvet traditions. South Asian craft doesn't stop at a border, and neither do we.

My family is Sikh and the ceremony is an Anand Karaj. Do you understand what that means for the outfit?

Yes. We understand that an Anand Karaj calls for specific colours (traditionally pinks, reds, and oranges, and typically not white or black), head covering requirements, and a look that lets you do the pheras with ease. We factor the practical and cultural requirements in from the start.

Still Have Questions?

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