The step after reading.

How it works

1. 01

   You write

   The occasion, the date, your city and a budget bracket you are comfortable with. If you have read a guide or run the Build Filter™, say what it gave you — it saves a round of questions.

2. 02

   I reply within 24 hours

   Usually two or three houses, and why those and not others: who cuts well for your frame, who holds a deadline, who is worth the wait. If nobody I trust fits your date or budget, I will say so.

3. 03

   I make the introduction

   A direct email or WhatsApp to the person who will actually handle your commission, with your brief attached so you are not starting from nothing at the first fitting.

4. 04

   You go in prepared

   I send the questions to ask, the alterations to insist on for your build, and the timeline to hold them to. What happens after that is between you and the house.

What a useful first note looks like

"Traditional engagement in Essex on 12 September. I'm 5'9", broader through the chest, and the Build Filter™ said shorter agbada body with a raised sleeve break. Budget around £900 for the outfit including cap and shoes. I've read the wedding guide — I want something that photographs well indoors and doesn't swamp me."

That is enough for me to name houses instead of asking questions. The occasion, the date, your city, your build, a budget bracket — five lines.

Before you write

Ten minutes of reading makes the reply far more useful.