Weddings Winter 2009 > Brides

Cameo Cleaners of Gramercy Park

Owner Jerry Pozniak’s well-trained eye can identify and treat just about any stain ($500 to $1,500)—he’s in charge of keeping the Met Opera’s entire wardrobe spot-free. Free pickup and delivery in Manhattan.

Chris French Cleaners

Manhattan brides bring gowns from practically every designer imaginable to be cleaned here (though service can be hit or miss). A dress takes about four to six weeks, but French claims he can rush it in one to three ($375 to $700).

Fashion Award Cleaners

These thorough cleaners (ignore the out-of-date awning) use UV light to catch invisible stains that would show up as spots years from now. They suggest allowing eight weeks for cleaning (from $600). No storage; pickup and delivery are free for both the East and West Sides.

Hallak Cleaners

Depending on the gown, Hallak will use one of five methods to clean it. They can turns jobs around in a week for those in a hurry, but the average time frame is three to four weeks (from $475). Pickup and delivery are available, and shipping is free.

J. Scheer & Co.

Trained in textile science, owner Jonathan Scheer is a master at fabric preservation. He subjects what passes through his doors to a battery of tests to determine how best to clean it ($395 to $795). Free pickup, delivery, and shipping. Call ahead, as the shop’s hours change frequently.

Madame Paulette

Imagine a cleaner on his hands and knees with a cotton swab and a magnifying glass—that’s the level of scrutiny one can expect at this popular spot. Jobs take six to eight weeks (from $600), but under special circumstances dresses can be done in 24 hours. Tailoring services are available.

Meurice Garment Care

Brides longing to wear their great-grandmother’s dress bring their gowns here for white-glove treatment, which includes restoration (from $624), alteration (from $25), reconstruction (from $1,500), and cleaning and preservation (from $400).

Slate NYC

Manhattan brides planning green weddings get their gowns cleaned here ($99 to $899 with pickup and delivery), where earth-friendly, skin-safe biodegradable detergent and hydrocarbon technology are strategically used to rid fabric of residue and odors before or after the big day.

From the Winter 2009 New York Wedding Guide