Getting married can be an expensive proposition! But it doesn't have to be, for the savvy bride who knows where to shop. There are lots of tricks you can use to find items of choice at below retail value, and your wedding dresses can be the best find of your whole planning experience! Consider the following ideas to locate an inexpensive wedding dress:
Heirloom: Your mother or grandmother may have a wedding dress tucked away in an attic and would absolutely love for you to wear it. Perhaps they don't mention it because they don't want to offend you. Ask around and you may find an aunt or someone who knows of an heirloom dress you can make your own for no cost whatsoever. You can even spend a little money and have a seamstress update the dress's look to suit you by removing the sleeves, for example, or adjusting the length.
Auctions: Online auctions and local auctions you find by searching online or in the papers can be a great source for wedding dresses. Often women will want to recover a little of their investment after their special day, and you can get deep discounts on beautiful dresses. Once it's been dry cleaned it will be as good as new, and you save lots of money for your other wedding expenses.
Second hand or never-used: Local second-hand shops can be a great source. Set aside some time for sleuthing in your local shops, and put the word out to the salespeople about what you're looking for. Often they will have something come in that you can work with and which will cost you very little.
Sample sales: Keep your eyes and ears peeled - many designers and wedding shops hold sample sales at the end of each season or once a year. These sales are a fantastic opportunity to acquire new bridal gowns at a deep discount. Be prepared to go early and to shop until you drop, and be prepared for many other eager and possibly aggressive brides-to-be!