IS THERE SUCH A THING AS A CHEAP WEDDING DRESS

Well yes, a bridal veil and a white bikini maybe? But you're probably thinking of the term "less expensive" rather than just plain cheap. After all, a wedding dress should be a special occasion...it just doesn't have to send you to early bankruptcy. We call these circumstances "bride on a budget" for those who can't afford a Pamela Anderson/Kid Rock triple sort of wedding thing. Here are some tips on how to shop within your budget and to still have a wedding of good taste.

Look For Wedding Dress Sales
Usually legitimate wedding dress sales from bridal stores (as opposed to hokey 15% off deals) happen once a year. You'll know it's a real sale because chances are there will be plenty of bridal traffic, (meaning lines and lines of people) as good deals are hard to find and anxiously sought. Usually ads will be listed in the newspaper perhaps as a "huge sale", "clearance sale" or "dress run". Tips on controlling bridal traffic? Bring some friends along who will act as your extra set of hands and hold on to additional dresses while you try on your favorite. There are no returns in cases like this, but at prices from 100.00-500.00, there's usually little complaint.





Consignment Stores And Thrift Shops
Consignment shops are the better deal in terms of quality, since they won't accept any damaged or worn wedding dresses. Thrift shops, of course, accept anything provided it's not lethal. When purchasing a wedding dress in these types of stores, be aware that there is something wrong with it, and make careful note of the damage. It may be repairable by a dry cleaner or tailor. But be sure that it is repairable, and still within your budget, as there's very likely no refund policy at these types of used clothing stores. Otherwise, you may be stuck with a wedding gown you can't use.





Online Auctions
Online auctions are a smart move, because you're not paying to keep a store in business-you're simply paying an individual what they feel the dress is worth. Expect significant discounts, when you shop online at such popular sites as Ebay or Yahoo. However, always be aware that the dress may not look anything like the auction picture. These are not professional companies, merely people wishing to sell a dress. Make sure and ask for full disclosure and if possible get it in writing. Ask for more pictures and if the buyer says it's in perfect condition, then say charmingly, "Come on. Seriously, what's wrong with it? I need to know so I can make plans to repair it."

You don't have to ruin your credit or file for bankruptcy before the wedding even happens. You can find an "affordable" but not cheap wedding dress and have a beautiful wedding.