I want a special wedding dress. I cannot find one. Actually, I
cannot afford to buy one. I can rent one, but cannot find
something for my soul.
Finding just the right gown when you are on a
budget can be a challenge. Have you checked re-sale shops in your
area? They often carry gowns that have either been worn only once
or that may be new and be from a shop that has closed.
You might also check e-bay. I am
hearing more and more brides mention that they found the dress of
their dreams on e-bay. Again, many new gowns that are close-outs
from bridal shops can be found there. You will have to pay for
shipping and for alterations, but it may still be a good deal.
You might also check department stores in your area for prom
dresses. Many prom dresses make excellent wedding or bridesmaids
dresses.
Best of luck to you.
Glenna Tooman, ForeverWed.com Wedding Consultant
Memory Makers Event Planning LLC
www.memorable-events.com
I understand your frustrations, and agree with
Glenna, there are some
good options for less-expensive gowns if you shop carefully and
extensively.
If you live near a larger city, there are often large independent
bridal
retailers who carry many different gowns, but also need to
liquidate the
old ones more quickly than small boutiques do. Great deals can
sometimes be found at this sort of store.
You also should keep in mind that often a simpler gown will better
'show
off' a bride and her other accessories than a very elaborate gown.
Many
of my custom gown clients end up choosing simpler, cleaner styles
instead of very heavily decorated designs. Money is one reason,
but
frankly, the look and the versatility is another important factor.
So don't be afraid to try on some of the simple, less-expensive
gowns
(or rentals, if that is offered in your area). What you choose for
your
bouquet and hair and other accessories-- as well as your joy as a
bride-- are often all the ornament needed to make a simple dress
really
"sing".
Flattering lines and a good fit are the most important details--
the
"bones" of your ensemble. You can often "fill out" the look with
(cheaper) details in your florals and accessories, to make the
gown look
all your own.
Good luck!!
Sara Ambarian --Foreverwed.com expert
author of "A Bride's Touch: A Handbook of Wedding Personality and
Inspiration"/
creative consultant/custom bridal designer
mailto:sara@foreverwed.com
For more wedding information:
http://www.foreverwed.com/~sara
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