10 Clever Ways to Score Your Dream Wedding Dress for Less
Wedding dress shopping can be both exciting and overwhelming. Bridal boutiques and department stores carry a wide variety of stunning dresses but the sky-high prices can often deter brides from buying their dream dress. Fear not, there are ways to score your dream wedding dress without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we will explore ten clever ways to snag your perfect dress for less.
1. Shop Sample Sales
A sample sale is an event where bridal boutiques sell off their showroom dresses at a discounted price. Sample sales tend to happen once or twice a year, so it’s important to keep an eye out for announcements.
2. Check Out Consignment Shops
Consignment shops carry previously worn dresses that have been professionally cleaned and restored. Brides can purchase designer dresses at a fraction of the original price.
3. Rent Your Dress
Renting a wedding dress may be the perfect compromise for brides who want a designer dress, but cannot afford the retail price. Renting a wedding dress allows brides to wear their dream dress for a fraction of the cost.
4. Shop Online
Online shopping offers a wide variety of dresses at a lower cost than in-store. Just make sure to research the retailer and read customer reviews before making a purchase.
5. Try Second-Hand Shops
Second-hand shops are a great place to start when looking for a budget-friendly wedding dress. Search for a dress that can be altered to fit you perfectly or check out the selection of already altered wedding dresses at these shops.
6. Buy Off-the-Rack Dresses
Off-the-rack dresses are dresses that are sold as-is without needing to be ordered or customized. This option is budget-friendly and offers the opportunity to try the dress on before purchasing.
7. Keep Your Eye on Social Media
Follow bridal shops and designers on social media to stay updated on sales, promotions, and sample sales. You may be able to snag your dream dress at a discounted price.
8. Shop During the Off-Season
Wedding dress prices tend to skyrocket during wedding season, but the off-season provides a great opportunity to find a discounted price.
9. Negotiate with the Bridal Boutique
Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the bridal boutique. Some boutiques may be willing to offer a discounted price for a dress that has been in their showroom for too long.
10. Borrow from a Friend or Family Member
If someone close to you has a wedding dress you love, ask if you can borrow it. Not only is this a cost-effective option, but it can also hold sentimental value.
FAQs
Q: Are sample sales only available in-store?
A: No, some bridal boutiques also have sample sales online. Make sure to check the boutique’s website for details.
Q: How much can I expect to save while shopping at a consignment shop?
A: The amount saved varies depending on the dress and the retailer. However, brides can typically expect to save between 25-50% off the retail price.
Q: Can I alter a dress I purchase online?
A: Depending on the dress, alterations may or may not be an option. Be sure to check the retailer’s alteration policy before making a purchase.
Q: When is considered “off-season” for wedding dresses?
A: Typically, the off-season is from November to March.
Q: How much do bridal boutiques typically mark up wedding dresses?
A: Bridal boutiques typically mark up wedding dresses by 50-100% of the wholesale price.
Conclusion
Don’t let the price of a wedding dress deter you from finding your dream dress. By shopping sample sales, consignment shops, renting, buying off-the-rack, and more, brides can find their perfect dress for less. Remember to keep an eye out for sales, negotiate with the boutique, and consider borrowing from a friend or family member. Happy shopping!