Buying an Affordable Wedding Dress

If you're getting married and you're on a budget, don't despair. There are beautiful, fashionable and affordable wedding dresses for every budget. Of course, you need to be careful, because it's very easy to try on a dress you love that's out of your limits. So, set some guidelines for yourself and bring some people along who will help you stick to them.

Consider Your Budget

Before you can start shopping, determine what your budget is. Presumably, you know how much you can spend on the wedding altogether. Think carefully about what you want to spend on the dress by considering other costs: meals, decorations, tip, gifts for your family and the bridal party, the photographer, the videographer, the DJ, the florist, the wedding planner and the venue. Make sure you're comfortable with what you can spend in each aspect before determining your final dress budget.

Affordable Wedding Dresses for any Budget

Before shopping, do some online searching. This will give you an idea of what is fashionable, what you like and the cost of dresses. Print out some of your favorite pics that are in your price range. Now, get out there! Bring your mom and two or three friends.

If your budget is:

$75 and under: Consider buying a white prom dress and buying lace, pearls or other embellishments from a craft store to sew on yourself.

$75-$150: Visit David's Bridal, which regularly sells beautiful dresses in the latest fashions for only $99.

$151-$1,000: Other discount bridal shops which have lots of selection for a low price. You can select the size you want and go through, trying on anything you can get your hands on, then order it new, so it's pristine when it gets to you. You may also be able to visit trunk stores at designer shops or other chain stores.

$1,000-$10,000: Many upper-class chain stores, such as DemetriOS, carry dresses in this price range, including some designer dresses. Some boutiques may also be available.

$5,000 and up: Visit boutiques and designer shops for the most fashionable dresses of the season.

It is possible to find a dress that's beautiful without breaking the budget. Enjoy!