Francesca's Atelier — Local services in Timonium

Absolutely appalling experience—do not trust this store with your special occasion. I ordered a custom dress from this store in October 2024 for my daughter’s wedding in May 2025. I was reassured multiple times that they would handle everything—precise measurements, ordering, and alterations—because the dress was heavily beaded and couldn't be easily adjusted. I paid in full over $2500. Five months later, I contacted them to check on the status. I was told the dress had failed inspection and was sent back. When it finally arrived, I was informed that their alterations specialist had retired, and no one else would be available to make the necessary changes. They downplayed the issue, claiming only the length needed adjusting.

I specifically requested to meet with my original salesperson because a previous interaction with another staff member had been unprofessional. Despite this, the same staff member I asked not to meet with was the only one there when I arrived. The dress they showed me was a disaster: several sizes too big, nothing like the sample I had tried on, and clearly not made to the measurements they had taken. When I raised concerns, the staff member implied I must have lost weight. I had not, and this was confirmed when I was remeasured on the spot. They then told me it would cost another $500+ to alter a “custom” dress that was supposed to fit from the start. Even the staff at the neighboring shop commented that the dress didn't come close to fitting me.

I was given an appointment on April 23 for final alterations. I drove 90 minutes each way only to find out again that no one was expecting me and nothing had been done. I had a confirmation email, which they insisted on seeing- to confirm that I was correct on the date of the appointment —but still, no solution.

With only three weeks until the wedding, I had no choice but to rush to find a replacement dress at considerable additional cost. The owner even called me on April 26 and asked me to find my own tailor! I called several—none were willing to take on such a complex job so close to the event. This whole ordeal caused me unnecessary stress and expense right before one of the most important days of my life. I was left without the dress I ordered, without alterations, and thousands of dollars out of pocket. I’ve asked the store multiple times for a full refund. As of now, I’m still waiting.

Save yourself the heartache....

I have bought MANY MANY a dress at this shop after I bought my bridal dresses (3) at their bridal shop. Why? because the experience at the Bridal shop was so wonderful that I got "hooked". First of all I was a second time bride (which to me was awkward). They helped me find just the right dresses for my wedding events that didn't make me feel "old". I got wonderful gowns for my bridal party as well. They are replete with a lot of information to assist in the process and great advice for those who are new to more dressy occasions or formal events. Since my wedding, I have bought dresses for various events and parties at their shop and recommended them as the only really "good" place in town to go to. Because they ARE! They carry high quality NY designer gowns. Wonderful accessories. They keep up with the newest fashions. They have trunk shows with new designers and support young designers. If you have a special event they help find you the perfect dress even if it isn't something they normally would have carried. They do wonderful alteration work and are very professional. If you want a dress for that special event this is a great place to go. They have years of experience and are a family run business. Which to me is another plus!!!! Friendly and accommodating. I have had many a friend I referred have a good experience as well. It's not an easy industry to deal with Brides/Moms and Women in general (LOL). so I give them additional kudos for always being courteous and kind to everyone. Again, best place and ONLY place in Baltimore to buy high...

I wish I could give a zero for my review. My mother was so excited to buy her dress for my wedding and was met with horrific customer service after the dress arrived late and ill fitting. They were able to make the proper adjustments three days before the wedding after my mom traveled several times to the shop, however they then charged my mother an absorbent fee to do said alterations. Mind you, the alterations were their fault. I am 30 years old and have many friends getting married and I've already personally talked to two about not coming here after they considered it. I hope the 300 dollars was worth the thousands you will be losing due to your horrific customer experience. Tori, the daughter of the owner, told my mom that Francesca was going to call her and she never did.. We wanted to wait to write our reviews and give her a week to call my mother. She has not.... It's not surprising given her daughter's attitude and frankly, poor customer service. Overall, I should have checked the reviews before coming because every poor review has a similarity, if something goes wrong, they don't handle it correctly. Do NOT come here, it's not worth the risk of something happening during what is supposed to be a special time for you and...