Couture Gowns For Less

Attention all you savvy shoppers out there!  Here is the down and dirty on how to get that amazing gown you’ve had your eye on for less!

Tip #1 – Attend a trunk show. Designers often offer special savings on their collections during their trunk show. Make sure you contact the gown shop prior to trunk show to set up your appointment.

Tip #2 – Buy the dress sample. If you come across a gown that has been used as a sample, yet does not show signs of wear and tear, buy it!

Tip #3 – Buy a pre-owned wedding gown. While this might not sound like an ideal option, once you see that Vera Wang gown you’ve always wanted in your size for 1/2 the price, you might change your mind! Check out a couple resources I’ve found to see for yourself:

PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com

EncoreBridal.com

Tip #4 – Rent a bridal gown. I know, not a typical thought when planning a wedding, but imagine wearing that Monique Lhuillier gown and paying only a fraction of its price!  Check out the rental shop in LA that has been getting alot of press these days:

One Night Affair.com

Planning Tip: Narrow down your dress likings to 2-3 designers then search for the gown. If you have too many designers you are chasing…you are going to get tired of shopping.

Photo Credit: Brides.com (Vera Wang Gallery)

Prioritize Your Wedding Expenses

If you are like me, you have spent the last few weeks watching the DOW slip to levels we have not seen in years.  You are wondering if you should spend money to get married right now.  If you have already started planning your wedding, might be paying more attention to how much money you are spending. 

You are not alone.

I came across a fantastic article today on DIYbride.com entitled, “How to Recession-Proof Your Wedding.”  I think it is sound advice for a bride in today’s economy. 

Do I think you should postpone getting married? No I don’t.  I think getting married is an important step in your life and if you are ready to get married, you should.  

How do you plan a wedding in today’s economy?  PRIORITIZE!!  Make a list of the things that are important to you, rank them, and adjust your expenditures match your priorities.  It is that simple.  You can stick to your budget, you just need to stick with your priorities.