ADVICE | How Do I Budget For My Wedding Dress?

 
For many brides, the first time they go wedding dress shopping can be a confusing experience. There are so many gorgeous gowns to choose from and there can be a lot of pressure when you’re picking out the dress you’re going to get married in. To add to the pressure, a wedding dress is usually one of the more expensive purchases you make in your life. Most brides know they should have a budget in place for their dress, but have no idea where to start when determining their budget. We’ve put together some tips for brides to help tackle their budget ahead of time so they will be prepared for a stress-free bridal appointment.
 

The Number Game

Based on current industry averages, attire typically makes up 8-10% of the overall wedding budget. Using those numbers as reference points can help you build out your own wedding budget and avoid any surprises when you start shopping. Our gowns start at $1500 and go up to $7000 with a majority of our gowns between the $2000-$4000 price point! Using those numbers as reference points can help you build out your own wedding budget and avoid any surprises when you start shopping.

Who’s Paying For The Dress?

Another important step in deciding your budget is figuring out who will be paying. Traditionally the bride’s parents pay for the wedding dress, but these traditions often fall to the wayside. Sometimes a generous family member will offer to pay or the couple will be covering the costs themselves. If someone else is offering to pay for your dress, it’s important to have a conversation with them about what they’re expecting to spend. If you are paying for the dress yourself, our friends at Earnest can help you find creative ways to afford the dress of your dreams. Talking frankly about money and who will be paying for the dress can feel awkward, but it’s better to address it before your appointment instead of when you’re standing in front of the mirror in your dream dress. Once the budget is set our stylists are extremely careful to help you stay at or under budget.

 The Extras

When planning out your dress budget it’s super important to add in the accessories that will complete your wedding day look. It can be easy to forget about! Not every bride will purchase all of these, but here are some of the extra items that might take up a portion of your budget:

  • Veil
  • Belt
  • Hair Accessories
  • Shawl
  • Jewelry
  • Shoes
  • Garter
  • Undergarments
  • Alterations
  • Dress Preservation

Wedding dress shopping is an exciting and special time for each of our brides, her wedding party, and parents. Coming prepared with a budget in mind is a great way to help your appointment run smoothly and assist your stylist. Our staff is happy to answer any questions and work with you to find your dream dress that fit in within your budget. Now that you've set your budget book an appointment to start shopping; we can’t wait to meet you and help you find your dress!!

 

        

 

Tags: Advice