Congratulations, you are getting married! The big day is coming and you need to start planning. Among the many big ticket items for your wedding budget, the wedding dress is one that often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. For the average bride, their wedding gown will be about 20% of the TOTAL wedding budget. But if you’re smart about it, there are plenty of deals to be had and perfect cheap wedding dresses that will work for you.
Just remember, this is your day and you are the one you want to please. It is very easy to cut back on everything, including finding cheap wedding dresses, to get by less expensively. If you have a particular style in mind, start looking as soon as possible. The inexpensive gowns do not usually stay on the racks for a long time. Just because they are less expensive does not mean they are not as beautiful as the more expensive dresses.
Online, if you Google “discount wedding dresses” there is a long list of online and regular store websites that will show up. There are several gorgeous wedding gowns that are listed for less than $60. David’s Bridal is a brick and mortar store that is found in many larger cities and they have several gowns listed for under $100 in both short and long styles.
Look for the fall sample sales. Ever year most boutiques and large wedding dress retailers will have a sale of the previous years wedding dress samples. This is an excellent opportunity for a bargain. But be prepared! Some stores, like Filene’s Basement Running of the Brides sale will have brides to be camping out over night to get their dream dress when the doors open. The initial frenzy can be pretty intense, and you wont have time for a traditional fitting- so have something on underneath you do not mind being seen in, like a swimsuit for instance, and a trusted friend to make sure its the right fit.
If you have a friend that is a seamstress, she may be willing to make a dress for you if you find a pattern that you like. However, sometimes that will end up more expensive than buying a dress off the rack and if you do not like it when it is finished; you are still stuck with it. The more practical route would be to check out all the wholesale wedding dresses available but the sooner you start looking the better chance you will have to find the perfect one for you. Many stores have knock-off dresses of well-known designers that they sell for much less than the originals.
Sometimes you may want to think outside the box and go with a more non-traditional dress. If your wedding is going to be on the beach, you certainly do not need a fancy beaded gown. You could get by with a white swim suit and a white sarong wrapped around, or just a simple white sundress. Go on-line and check out eBay or craigslist. Oftentimes you can find discount bridal dresses that way. They are only worn for one day so it will not have much wear and tear. You could get by very inexpensively if you have a friend or relative who is the same size and will loan you their gown for your special day. They would probably be honored to see you wearing it. The main objective is that you find a dress that you love, you feel comfortable in and that fits into your budget. Then remember to relax and enjoy your day!
Photo Credit: Some rights reserved by killrbeez
No comments yet.