We believe that on your wedding day you should feel confident, beautiful and blissfully happy! For many brides, finding the perfect dress can feel like the most important aspect of their wedding. From Vera Wang to Alexander Mcqueen, there’s so much to choose from and at such high prices it can all feel a little bit overwhelming. So we have provided out five ideas for saving money on that perfect designer wedding dress, so when you say ‘I do’ you’re feeling fabulous and haven’t blown the whole wedding budget!
ONE: Renting a dress
Renting the dress is a great option, you can cut up to half the cost from that original price tag! Renting a dress is becoming much more popular in the wedding world, so there are plenty more options and companies that can offer you the dress of your dreams. It might seem a little odd not to keep such a special dress, but you are unlikely to wear the dress ever again and this way it won’t take up wardrobe space! Not to mention the environmental benefits - we love and eco wedding here at Woolverstone Hall!
TWO: Ask for help
There is no shame in asking for help, there are so many boutiques and stores that can help you find that perfect gown. Why not try Abigail's Collection in Essex. They stock some unbelievable designers from around the world and have something for every budget. They recently launched their own line of stunning dresses - Arabella Grace - and we were lucky enough to be the setting for the launch campaign! Book an appointment, head to their lovely store in Colchester, the ladies are on hand to give you lots of expert advice. It is their job to know everything about wedding dresses, so don't be afraid to ask.
THREE: Alterations
Why not try a more simple dress, which you can add pieces on to? It can give you a designer look, without the price tag! You can find some lovely understated dresses at a cheaper price and then look into alterations and additions to add your own stamp onto it and really make it individual to you. We’re thinking capes (very Oscar de la Renta!), added lace, appliqués, belts and veils!
FOUR: Switch Seasons
Consider shopping in the Winter or Summer seasons – designers often distribute their new lines during these times, so retailers will have to get rid of the older stock to make room. This means you're likely to find discounts but make sure you're visiting the store in person for those extra special finds!
FIVE: CONSIDER EVENING WEAR
Evening gowns & bridesmaids dresses come in white too! Not having the wedding gown title can decrease the price of the dress. And you can still find beautiful designer gowns that look like wedding dresses, no one would know the difference! So make sure you look through all the racks throughout the whole store and not just the wedding gown section. This may be the key to getting the big brand name, but a far smaller price tag!
So there you have it, our 5 ideas for saving money on a designer wedding dress. Make sure to try all these options when searching for that dream dress, happy hunting!
ALL PHOTOS ARE FROM THE ARABELLA GRACE LAUNCH CAMPAIGN.
FILMED AT WOOLVERSTONE HALL BY GEORGIA RACHAEL AND MIKE SAVORY. DIRECTED BY THE WEDDING PLANNERS FOR ABIGAIL’S COLLECTION