How to Find a Sale on Wedding Dresses

Weddings are expensive and becoming more and more so every year. With everything for your special day costing so much more, it’s a good idea to try to save money wherever you can. By doing a little research and taking the time to shop around, it’s become very easy to find a sale on wedding dresses. There are many beautiful options available at great prices that will allow more money that can be used for other parts of your special day.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• computer

1. Sit down with a notepad and pen and figure out what you can and are willing to spend. Pay close attention to the theme of your wedding and the level of formality. If it’s an evening reception, you’ll need to go a bit more formal and that can mean that you’ll need to spend a little more.

2. Decide on a few options. Take into consideration what you must have and what you can live without. This will help you get some clarity on your needs and will help you narrow down your search.

3. Jump online and head to your favorite bridal store Web site. Most sites have an option for sale and clearance dresses under a separate subheading on the homepage. Just click on the subheading and take a look.

4. Take your time and weigh the options available. Pay close attention to the dresses on display and use the site’s search engine to narrow your options.

5. Take several notes on the various styles that you like. Make sure to note any item ID numbers, as this will allow your bridal consultant to order the dress that you want.

6. With your list in hand, head to your favorite bridal shop or the bridal department of your preferred retail store and discuss the several options that you have selected. Most of these stores have highly trained bridal consultants that can help you find the best deal possible.

7. Make your selection and enjoy your day knowing that you’ve saved a lot of money by shopping smart!

Tips & Warnings

• Be open to compromise. If you absolutely have to have a specific dress but it is from last year’s line you are better off looking elsewhere in your budget to save money. By compromising a little bit on specifics you can maximize your savings.
• Don’t be afraid to look at dresses in the store that are two to three seasons old if available. It’s a long shot that they’d be able to get it for you if the one on the rack won’t work, but imagine the savings if it did!
• Make sure that the online retailer you are ordering from is reputable. Many discount bridal sites are unscrupulous and will ship damaged, stained, and even used gowns. Your best bet is to stick with well-known department and bridal stores.
• Be sure to allow plenty of time for delivery and alterations. Most wedding dresses are going to require at least a small amount of alteration, and allowing for plenty of time to make those alterations saves a lot of headaches on the big day. Remember, there are a first fitting, alterations, and a second fitting that may require further alterations, so leave plenty of time!