Ordering for a deadline

[danaeris.livejournal.com]

I'm plus size and new to lolita. I was planning on ordering my first petticoats (Classical Puppets bell and a-line) and the Dancing Roses (not sure if I'll go for OP, JSK, or SK yet) by Surface Spell Gothic with custom sizing via MLD, QutieLand, or Clobba. I will be wearing them for a special event July 4th weekend (a commitment ceremony). The time estimates given on MLD and the other sites for customization and shipping look like the dress and petticoats would arrive with plenty of time to spare. But some of the responses I'm seeing to sugaryalchemist's post are making me worried. It would really suck if they didn't arrive on time.

If I place the order very soon, I'll have about four months lead time. Is this risky? Should I give up on this method and find a local seamstress? For that matter, anyone able to recommend a seamstress in the Chicago area?