I had my first alteration appointment last week. I ordered my dress 2 sizes smaller than my measurements in October and I started my "diet", more like just eating healthier and not going out to eat 2-3 times a week.
I went to my appointment dreading the fact that I could try on my dress and it still wouldn't fit even after losing 20+ pounds. The owner of the shop said when I ordered my dress that every size is roughly 15 pounds, so I was looking at having to lose 30 pounds!
Well I put on the dress and the girl helping me just started buttoning it up like it was nothing! I was so relieved! It fit like a glove. The only alterations are hemming it one inch and the bustle!
The owner came over and said that she was emotional for me and proud of my accomplishment!
Before - 4+ inch gap
After - ignore the 2 buttons, they were pulling weird
After - side view