A Beautiful Wedding Dress Does Not Have To Cost A Fortune By Julia Tweed The first image that pops in your head when you think about a wedding is the bride in her wedding dress. The bride is the center of the entire wedding event. The wedding gown may well be the most expensive single piece of clothing a woman will ever buy. Typically the price of the gown is about 10% of the total budget. If money is tight, you can still buy the dress of your dreams. You just might have to look a little smarter. The following suggestions may help: The best time to buy your wedding dress at a discount is between the first of January and the end of March. Last year's dresses will be on clearance to make room for the new season's dresses. The bridal shops may be busy during their sales, so you should have an idea about what you are looking for. (Weddings are generally cheaper during this same time frame, with the exception of Valentine's Day. This is considered the "off season", so you will not be competing with so many others for photographers, caterers, etc.) Check out the outlet shops. Many of the exclusive stores sell at outlet shops for a greatly reduced price. You will not get the same level of service, but the price may make up for it. Keep an eye out also for "trunk sales". Wear an heirloom dress. Wearing your mother's dress may make your entire wedding more special, or you may have another close relative that would share their dress with you. You could also check second hand shops. They may surprise you with their selection. Check on the web. Check everywhere from Ebay to Wholesale Wedding Dress sites on the internet. Make certain that you start looking as early as possible in your wedding planning process. You will want to make certain that you allow enough time for alterations or an exchange if necessary. Be sure to check out the seller's return policy. You can also buy a dress that isn't technically a wedding dress. Check in department stores for a prom dress or an evening gown. They are much less expensive and you might find just what you are looking for. The very best advice regardless of the route you take in buying your wedding dress is to "shop around". Take the time to compare prices. Don't buy the first dress you find. If you allow yourself enough time and by being a little creative, you should be able to find just the right wedding dress for you and within your budget range. This article was written by Julia Tweed. I have also published an ebook entitled "Getting Ready to Say I Do". This ebook is a step by step guide to planning your wedding. Also check out my website at: http://www.aceweddingplanner.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/ Back to Volume 9 Utah Temple Wedding Videographers � COPYRIGHT 2007 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED WASATCHBRIDE.COM