How to Get Your Wedding Dress on the Cheap

Your wedding doesn't have to empty your savings account in order to be stylish or festive. In fact, with a little elbow grease, some creativity and a dash of determination, your wedding can be a work of art on a shoestring budget. The first thing to consider is the dress and this can be a terrific place to save a lot of money. Your wedding gown should reflect who you are - this is your wedding day, and you can wear whatever you like.

An inexpensive wedding gown doesn't mean something ugly or poorly made. First, your wedding gown doesn't have to be white (unless you have always wanted to be married in a white dress). It also doesn't have to be a wedding dress at all, in fact, sometimes you can find a dress that looks like a wedding dress, but because it isn't called a wedding dress, it is significantly less expensive. I was married in a gorgeous green bridesmaid's dress (half off!), my mother was married in a dark purple dress and a close friend was married in a sleek, modern pantsuit. This is your big day, and if you don't want a dress or white, then don't do it.

Whatever option you decide on, start out by looking at dresses and dress styles you like in magazines and bridal shows. Pick out the details you especially like and keep a list or cut out the pictures. Knowing what you like will help you when you are shopping and, if you happen to be handy with a sewing machine, if you decide to make your own dress or alter something you find. You may also find that what you like in a dress is not in style (and will be less expensive), or you may be able to snap up some killer ideas to use in altering or embellishing a cheaper dress that you find.