Tag: Wedding Dress

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rust Your Instincts: 10 Telltale Signs That a Wedding Dress Isn’t ‘The One’!

Not all brides are lucky enough to realize it when they come across the right wedding dress. Unless you have a very specific idea about the dress you want to wear, and find one that matches every one of your expectations, wedding shopping may not be so straightforward. With thousands of options and gorgeous wedding dresses that look just as good as the others, don’t be surprised if you are soon lost in a world of tulle and lace.

Here are the factors that you should pay attention to when you go shopping, so you know that when it is best to let go of a particular dress. This list will help you narrow down your choices by eliminating the dresses that will not be right. So, let’s look at when you should say “No” to a wedding dress.

When the dress is way over-budget

We cannot emphasize how important it is first to fix your wedding dress budget, and then go shopping. Wedding dresses can be as expensive as you want them to be. However, there are plenty of gems that are affordable as well. Don’t make the mistake of even trying on a dress that you cannot afford. If you fall in love with it, imagine the disappointment when you realize you cannot have it. And if, for some reason, you end up trying on a dress that is above budget or even think of wearing it just for the fun of it, keep in mind that you will not be buying it. The single reason that it costs more than your budget allows is enough for you to say “No” to it, this time.

Tip: When you calculate your wedding dress budget, don’t forget to account for alteration costs. This can easily add up to a few extra hundreds. So, look for a dress that will still be within your range, after the possible alteration charges that you may incur.

Your entourage is in love with it, though you aren’t

You know how it is when everyone around you seems to think this is the real deal, but you aren’t so sure. In some cases, you may be certain that this is not the dress, but your entourage may compel you to think otherwise. Don’t succumb to such pressure. Remember that no matter what the others think, a dress will simply not be best, unless you feel it yourself. Don’t force yourself to see their point of view and make the mistake of saying yes, because everyone thinks it is the one! We repeat, you do not want to be married in a dress that will leave you regretting the choice, simply because it wasn’t the one that you loved. Check out our previous article on how to choose your entourage wisely, so you minimize your chances of ending up in such a situation.

Some useful Info: Before shopping with your entourage, look at this short article on the Opinionator. Joanna Hershon tells us how she finally made her own dress decision for her wedding despite already having a dress picked out by mom, and how everything fell into place once she did. That’s something you should also consider!

When you are pressed for time

If you have been trying dresses on for the entire appointment and are satisfied almost to a great extent with the one you finally wear, do you take it? No, you shouldn’t!

Remember that your decision may be influenced by the other dresses that you tried on, and that you are running out of time and energy. Don’t make this mistake. Love a dress only because it is a dress you want to be married in, and not something you settled for. If you are saturated with lace, chiffon and organza gowns, stop the ordeal and go home. Come back for another appointment when you will be fresh and energetic. If you are almost certain that a dress is the right one, but not 100% sure, still don’t go for it. Instead go home and sleep over it. If you still find yourself attracted to the dress the next day, then it may be the one after all. Otherwise, you will be glad you didn’t finalize the decision without thinking it through, only to regret it later.

If it is not your style

The right wedding dress would be an extension of your personality and should reflect your taste and personal preferences. However beautiful a dress may be, if you cannot connect with it, it is best you say no. We have seen many brides agree to a certain silhouette just because their mom or friends think it is right and coerce them into agreeing. Other times, brides are tempted to try on the trendiest wedding dresses in the shop. However, a wedding dress is not just about the look. It is about becoming the bride that you always dreamed of being. So, if you have never turned towards a ball gown all your life, don’t do it on your wedding day. Similarly, if the latest trend statement, say a halter neck, isn’t one that you feel comfortable in, stay away from it. Take cues from your current wardrobe and the look you love most on yourself, to decide what your wedding dress should be.

When the dress is too trendy

Fashion is always changing, even in the case of wedding dresses. So, what is in today, may be out tomorrow. We think it is best to experiment with fashion trends in your daily wardrobe, but never with your wedding dress. This is because the pictures of your wedding day will stay with you for a lifetime, long after the trends have changed. So, you don’t want to end up with a dated look, ten years from now. Use trends as a guide to find styles that really appeal to you, and enhance your natural figure and features. As award-winning bridal stylist, Ellie Sanderson tells us in this article on the Huff Post, “You can make a nod to current fashion but don’t take anything to extremes.” Stay safe with fashion trends that are good enough that you can expect them to be around for a while longer. Also, make sure that the dress features actually add to your attractiveness. Then, it won’t be a problem even if the style is no longer a fashion statement when you flip the pages of your wedding album years later.

If the gown doesn’t match your theme

If your wedding is based on a theme, it may not be the best idea to choose a dress that doesn’t match it. For example, an ultra-modern sleek gown may look out of place at a rustic vintage wedding, just as a traditional ball gown would be inappropriate at a beach wedding. So, pick your theme and find a wedding gown that matches it, or do the reverse. Do your homework on the types of silhouettes, fabrics and gown designs that would be best for your chosen wedding theme. Then go shopping and pick a gown that is suitable for the theme, and not just one that you are attracted to at the moment.

When the dress feels uncomfortable

Although you may find yourself look amazing in a dress, you should also feel comfortable in it. Wearing anything you aren’t accustomed to will make you uncomfortable, whether on any other day or your wedding day. So, stick to wearing only a dress that is comfortable and doesn’t make you extra-conscious on your wedding day. Strapless and sweetheart neckline gowns rule the world of wedding gowns, but this design feature isn’t for every bride. It can be not very pleasant if you have to keep pulling up your neckline throughout the day, if you aren’t used to wearing it before. So, if you have never worn a strapless gown yet, or find yourself highly uncomfortable in it, it is best to avoid this on your wedding day. Similarly, other bold wedding dress features, like a fully exposed back or a silhouette that is too clingy may not be suitable for all brides. If you choose a dress that has sleeves, you should be able to lift your arms comfortably. Unless you can alter the design to suit your personal taste and it doesn’t drastically alter the look of the dress, it is better to continue looking.

When you find more flaws than favorites

A few alterations or custom changes are fine, when you choose a gown. But, if you think a dress is alright, but you will have to fix at least five or more things for it to be good enough for your wedding day, it certainly isn’t the right gown. When there is just that one feature that is perfect, but all the rest of the features do not appeal to you, it simply means you will have to spend a lot of time, effort and not to mention money, to fix it. Remember that every alteration costs money, and you may pay a lot of money if you have to make many custom changes. This is usually not worth it. You are better off looking for another gown with the features that you like.

When your mind is still on another dress

Don’t always expect to cry and get all emotional when you come across the right dress. This doesn’t happen to all brides. Sometimes, you may not be sure that you have already found the right dress until you try on more and your mind keeps returning to the previous one. So, if you find yourself torn between two dresses and seem to get nowhere with your decision, don’t try to force yourself to like the one you are wearing. It could be that you are inclined towards the current choice only because of it’s features that are similar to your original choice. Just to make sure, step out of the dress and think objectively about both. Unless the second one has a clear advantage over the first, it may be the first that appeals to you. Either way, it would be a good idea to take your time to decide. Go home, think over it for a day or two, and then return to place your order for the one you actually love.

If the gown doesn’t look great on the body you have now

Many brides anticipate a pre-wedding weight loss, which they expect to successfully happen in the months preceding the wedding. Whether this is possible or not, do not let this factor impact your dress decision. It is always better to choose a dress that looks good on your currently, and also buy it in your current size than take it in a smaller size. If the gown doesn’t flatter you right now, it is possible that it may not look good on you even after you shed the extra pounds. And if you cannot lose the intended weight, it would be an even bigger tragedy. So, if the dress isn’t figure-flattering or attractive on you at your dress appointment, say “no” to it without hesitation.

Wedding dress shopping is exciting but equally daunting. However, knowing your options, finding a talented bridal consultant and looking for what you want will help you find the dress of your dreams with fewer hassles. Brides before you have done it, and so can you.

To enjoy your shopping experience and to make the right choice from the thousands of designs available, trust the talented team at Best for Bride to help you. Book your appointment with us, so we can help you make your wedding dress dream a reality. Our vast inventory of top-class, high-quality designer wedding dresses are sure to impress you. So, what are you waiting for? Come visit us today!

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10 things your wedding doesn’t really need

Weddings are expensive affairs, and it is not worthwhile to spend money on the so-called “must-haves,” which end up being not so essential after all. It is quite commonplace to get caught in a rush, and tick things off your list as quickly as is possible when planning your wedding. In all this hurry, you may easily overlook what is actually necessary and what can be done without.

So, we suggest you take a break from all that wedding planning for a bit and actually look at that long list you have. A few minutes is all it will take to analyze whether you need to do everything that is in there but definitely does this. This well-spent time will help your budget go further.

We have some tips from our wedding planning experts, who have seen enough weddings to precisely tell us what we can do away with, and still have a fantastic wedding day. So, in no particular order, here is the list!

Save-the-date cards

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Save-the-date cards are just another expensive piece of stationery, that you can do without. This is very true if you have a short engagement. Your wedding invitation, on the other hand, is a must-have! Almost everyone has an email or social media account these days. So, just send out an email once you finalize your wedding date, and that should be enough for everyone to mark their calendars. In case there are those who don’t operate online, you can inform them with a personal letter or phone call. Or, if there is little time left till the wedding, just send the invitation as soon as is possible. When you think of the postage and printing charges for a bunch of save-the-dates, don’t you think it is worth spending that money on something else?

Guest books

wishing well

Your guest book may not cost you a significant amount, but when planning your wedding, every bit counts. It will, in the end, just be a book that will be stashed away and hardly remembered. How many of your guests will do much more than just sign their names into it, and what purpose does that really serve anyway? Now if you were opting for a guest book alternative, like a wish well or a wish box, it would be nicer. You could use this in your new home as a wall or mantel display. This will certainly be more enjoyable than a guest book that will be put away with the rest of the wedding stuff you may never touch again.

A fancy cake-cutting set

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When you spend a huge amount on a designer wedding cake, do you think it is necessary to get a fancy cutting set to do the honours? This is an item with a one-time use, but it can be pretty expensive. What is more, your caterer may even have one that you can borrow. Or it may be available at the venue if the place hosts weddings regularly. So, check this option out before you go shopping. Or, you can just ask family and friends. If any of your friends have bought a brand new set for their wedding, they may lend it to you for your cake-cutting ceremony.

A big bridal party

Image Credits: Micadew, via Flickr
Image Credits: Micadew, via Flickr

There is no right or wrong number of members in your bridal party. If you have plenty of friends and relatives who must be beside you when you say “I do”, so be it. Otherwise, keep the numbers small, and many, including you, will be relieved. It is expensive for you as well as your bridesmaids when they are at a wedding party. The bridesmaids will have to put aside a considerable amount for their dresses, accessories, hair, makeup and wedding gifts. Similarly, the couple will also feel obliged to buy special wedding party gifts and share some of the bridal party expenses. Instead of all this, if you keep your wedding party small and include just those who are essential, you save everyone a lot of trouble. Not only do the potential bridesmaids candidates just have to worry about getting you one wedding gift, but you can also skip the extras like expensive wedding party gifts. And the lesser the number of women, the lesser the drama! Have a Maid of Honor and a bridesmaid, or even two Co-maids of honour and you should be good to go.

Too many details

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An elaborate centrepiece with hundreds of intricate details works just as well as a budget-friendly simple and stylish smaller centrepiece. Similarly, party favours wrapped in cellophane, and then packed into a custom bag and topped with a fancy ribbon will do not different than one packed into a small box. And we don’t even have to get started on how expensive and unnecessary fancy linen is. When there are too many details in a wedding, it loses its charm. Your guests will simply get lost in the several things that they may not remember most of it at the end of the day. So, focus on creating only a few signature elements that stand out from the rest. Stay away from the smaller details that don’t contribute to the bigger picture, and you will save yourself a lot of stress. Instead, devote attention to making your wedding day fun and enjoyable, as that is what will be most memorable.

A band

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Let’s face it, a band is very expensive. So, unless you are very particular you must have a group of performing artists at your wedding, skip it altogether. A DJ with a playlist of songs that will entertain the guests at your party can make your party just as interesting. Perhaps even more, if you find the right wedding DJ or band. Also, it will mean a lot less to co-ordinate. Or, if you can manage a good quality sound system, you can create your own list of songs on a CD and have it played at the wedding.

A registry

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If you know exactly what you want in your new home, or you are particular about not keeping anything more than you actually need, a wedding registry may be a good idea. However, if you aren’t really sure of what you should have, or what you will find useful in future, skip the registry altogether. Trust me on this, creating a registry when you are unsure of things will only confuse you more. You already have so much going on for your wedding, and planning the registry is one tiring detail that you don’t have to add to it. Not having a registry will give your guests the flexibility to figure out something they think will be useful. Don’t you think the surprise of opening up each gift and discovering what they’ve chosen for you will be real fun? And, if you get lucky, your guests may even skip the idea of getting you a gift and give you cash or gift vouchers instead. That doesn’t sound so bad, does it now?

The latest designer wedding gown

Walking down the aisle as a beautiful vision of white is possible, even if you don’t spend a chunk on a brand new designer wedding gown. There are so many economical options that can still help you realize this dream. Choose a gown from the previous season’s collections, and you may get it at a discount. Or visit the clearance sale section of your wedding shop, to find what captures your fancy. You could even rent your gown or buy one second-hand, and nobody has to know. After all, it is a one-time occasion and not a dress you have to wear every day. If you can get what you want for a fraction of the cost of buying a fresh off-the-runway, designer wedding gown, you must be really smart and practical! Don’t worry about compromising on style or look, when you opt for this route. Check out our special offers page on Best for Bride for some fantastic offers that will definitely transform you into the beautiful bride you always dreamed of being, but without the hefty price tag attached to it.

Wedding programs

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Another piece of stationery that you can easily skip is wedding programs. It is common practice to hand out wedding programs before the start of the ceremony, and the paper that goes into making it is usually not cheap. However, have you ever noticed where these programs end up after the ceremony? In the trash, of course. So, why should you spend a fortune on getting them printed if they serve no real purpose? I like this idea on The Every Last Detail blog, to use large signage instead, noting the key participants in the ceremony and order of events. Not only will this detail have a huge visual impact, but it can also be done at a fraction of the cost of printing hundreds of wedding programs. Also, it serves the main purpose of providing the information that your guests actually need, and in a no-fuss, but classy way.

Personalized wedding favors

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Cute little trinkets, personalized tins, glasses and photo coasters may all be very attractive, but how many of them will actually serve any purpose for your guests? While you may have to spend a fortune on your wedding favors and pay extra for custom details like adding a photograph or message, will it ever be used or even saved for later? The best favors that wedding guests actually use are edible ones. So, if you must have a wedding favor that will please everyone, consider cookies, candy, preserves or chocolates. You can personalize these with a photo wrapper or printed message wrapper if you want that personal touch in there. If you don’t think this is good enough, the next best options are candle holders and potted plants, that can be established into any home easily. Not all your guests may appreciate displaying photo favors with your picture, so save yourself your hard-earned cash and stick with what will actually be useful for them.

A towering tiered cake

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Earlier we mentioned that you do not need a fancy cake cutting set, to cut your designer cake. Now we tell you that you do not even need a fancy towering cake to impress your guests. You can do the same with a smaller couture cake, that will be just as spectacular, sans the size. Firstly, this means you can have a gourmet cake done with excellent details, just for the cake cutting ceremony. Sheet cakes done in the same flavor can be served to the guests at their tables. Not only does this minimize wastage, but there are also no compromises on style either. Or, if you are feeling bold enough, skip the cake altogether and choose an alternate dessert. For options, check out this previous post.

A weekend wedding

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Sure, you want everyone to be at your wedding! But, if a weekday ceremony saves you a tonne of cash or helps you get your dream venue which is booked for all weekends, so be it. This article on the Huff Post tells us that guests who want to be at your wedding won’t really mind taking a day off work for it. If you plan the event on a Friday, it would also help them kick-start a long weekend. Nobody will be complaining, I am sure!

So, tell us now, which of these things will you be eliminating from your wedding plans? Or, is there something that you have decided to skip, but we have missed in the list. Do let us know in the comments below.

Best for Bride helps prospective brides and grooms find everything they need for a fantastic wedding. From wedding dresses, dresses for the bridal party and essential wedding services, we have everything bridal under one roof. Check out our website today, to find what you seek, and come one step closer to having the perfect wedding day.

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The truth behind 10 winter wedding myths

Winter weddings are growing in popularity, with more and more brides opting for this romantic wedding season. I think these women are really clever, to make the most of this unusual choice to create fond memories.

Planning a wedding in winter shouldn’t be too difficult, if you actually consider it. There are several misconceptions associated with a winter wedding, and this is why many brides don’t even think of the idea.

Let us take a look at some of the most common winter wedding myths that you will most likely hear, if you announce you will be getting married during the coldest time of year. Don’t worry, for we are here to give you the actual facts and tell you if it is indeed something you need to worry about, or just another thing that you let it in one ear and out the other!

1.You cannot choose any wedding dress you want

If you think you should cover yourself up in a full-length, full-sleeve, turtle-neck wedding dress, to keep the cold at bay, you are mistaken. Don’t think too much about the strapless or backless gown that you simply love, just go for it!

The cold is a given factor whether you wear a full-sleeve gown or a sleeveless one. Take a cue from our designer collections for winter and fall. I’m sure you won’t find more than a handful of full-sleeve dresses there. This is because brides love and do wear dresses that expose the neck, shoulders, back and arm. Since you will most likely be having an indoor ceremony in a heated area, you won’t feel cold. And for those valuable outdoor photo moments that you cannot miss, this is the time to add style to your ensemble with a luxurious wrap, stole or jacket. You can view our fantastic collection here.

Shine brighter than any snowflake at your snow-kissed winter wedding with this beautiful Sophia Tolli Mon Cheri wedding gown. The sweetheart neckline adds a touch of romantic to an already ravishing wedding dress design. Check more details about this dress by visiting this link here.

2.Winter weddings are cheaper

Your wedding expenses depend entirely on the type of wedding you have, the number of guests attending and what you choose to have at your wedding. Winter is the off-peak season where weddings are concerned. So, you may be able to get a better rate if you negotiate, or snag a discount that a vendor advertise. You also have a better chance of finding such discounts this time of year, as vendors are more likely to search for clients, and not the reverse. Nevertheless, your wedding expenses will depend on how you plan your wedding. If you go with seasonal fare, choose flowers that are available, and search for the best discounts and deals, you will be able to pull off your wedding on a smaller budget. However, if your wedding menu will have items that are not easily available this time of year, or you want floral décor and bouquets with spring or summer flowers, be prepared to shell out extra.

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3.You have limited options in bridesmaids dresses

Just like with wedding dresses, you may quickly assume that your bridesmaids will need full-length dresses that cover the neck and arms. Well, you don’t! The same rules that apply to you, go for your bridesmaids too. Feel free to choose short, sexy dresses, as long as your wedding is in a well-heated venue. They can always accessorize with a warm jacket, wraps or stoles if they have to spend time in the cold outdoors. Additionally, short dresses give them the chance to look stunning and stylish. Enter snow boots or knee-high boots and a cozy Pashmina shawl, and show me one girl who isn’t excited to wear the short dress that you choose for her.

Don’t you think this 8108S from the Alfred Angelo Bridesmaids collection is a delightful dress that your bridesmaids will love to wear? This cocktail length gown with a stunning sheer halter neckline features necklace beading and ends just above the knee. Not only does it look smart and glamorous, it is also a practical choice that your girls will think of reusing after the wedding. Check this bridesmaid dress out at this link to our collection.

4.An outdoor wedding is off-the-cards

Why should you limit yourself to the indoors when there is so much beauty in the landscape outdoors? We say, plan your event outdoors, and live your dream. It will be a memorable and unique event, when you do. All it takes is a little practical planning. You may have to keep your ceremony short, so its over quickly but is just as memorable, and make sure that the outdoor area is well-heated, so nobody feels too cold. I like this idea on The Knot website to arrange for shawls and hot cocoa for your guests. Additionally, inform your guests that you will be having an outdoor ceremony, so they can bundle up in warm woolens and come prepared for your spectacular event. Since winter weather is often tricky and you can’t predict how it will go, it is a good idea to have a backup plan, in case things don’t proceed in your favor on the day.

snow wedding
Image Credits: Corrinne Allen, via Flickr

5.You have limitations when choosing your winter wedding décor

Unless there are budget constraints that restrict you from planning the wedding of your dreams, there is no other reason for a less-than-picturesque winter wedding décor. In fact, winter being closer to the holidays, you have plenty of festive options available than at any other time of the year. Look around the shops during winter and you will see that there are more décor choices than ever before. It is also likely that you will come across sales that you can make the most of. Make the most of the available and hot décor items like candles and baubles. With some creativity, you can easily transform them into any dream design you want, without looking like it was built for Christmas. So, if you aren’t keen on having a snowy winter wonderland wedding, just think of how you can use what is available and customize it to look different, but interesting. And, if you are a fan of snowy landscapes and dancing fairy lights that warm up the wintry scene, you will have no difficulty finding exactly what you want.

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6.Most guests won’t look forward to a winter wedding

In our experience, the opposite is usually true. Most guests are bored with attending weddings in spring and summer. However, winter weddings are far fewer, and offer a welcome respite to look forward to, during the cold months. Also, not all your guests are bundled in at home throughout the day. Winter doesn’t prevent them from going to work and school. So, your wedding is just another occasion that they have to attend, despite the cold. Since it will usually be closer to the time when they are planning Christmas and Thanksgiving, it will give them a chance to relax and enjoy themselves at a party that they don’t have to do much at. Also, with the festive season on it’s way, most people are cheerful and happy. This allows them to enjoy your wedding, take part in the fun and return home with cheer.

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7.Reduced daylight hours will dampen the party spirit

Not if you set the ambiance at your venue right. It has to be exciting, thrilling and full of party spirit. True that the shorter days may make it necessary to have a short outdoor ceremony. Nevertheless, you can continue the party inside with full pomp and show till late into the night, when you have a venue that is nice, warm and well-lit. The good thing about winter weddings is that it is easy to fashion a warm, glowing atmosphere with plenty of candles and soft yellow lights. It is a double bonus if you have snow; the image is simply spellbinding. If your venue has a roaring fireplace, it would add to the festive atmosphere. Make sure that the venue is properly warmed before the guests arrive, so they can quickly settle in. Activities like dancing and eating will do the rest of the job to heat up the atmosphere, and help everyone enjoy the beautiful event.

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8.Your food choices are limited

Just like with décor, your menu choices are only restricted by your budget. Although you may have to spend extra to get items that are off-season, it is possible if you are prepared to pay for it. However, you needn’t worry about a boring menu at all, even if you go with what is seasonally and locally available. Winter has it’s own rich bounty of natural ingredients. All you need is a good caterer, who can whip up a gastronomical feast with what is readily available. The cold weather outside makes this the perfect time to consider hearty family-style comfort food, which will warm palates but not strain your pocket. So, do your research in advance, and plan out your options. Also don’t forget that hot cocoa stations and s’more bars are great ideas that are best executed in winter than in any other season.

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9.Your photos will not look great

It is actually quite the opposite. If your wedding has light snowfall, imagine how romantic and beautiful your winter wedding photos will be in the outdoors. Although you may have to limit your outdoor shoots to when there is sunlight, indoor photography will not suffer on this account. Just make sure that your photographer has enough experience covering nighttime events, and brings the apparatus required for it. If there is a good flash light, and enough lighting at your venue you can get fabulous shots. Playing with light and shade will also give you some unusually impressive pictures, as well. Remember to tell your photographer in advance, if you want a soft, glowy and dreamy effect in your photos. It would be perfect to capture the winter wedding scenery in such a setting.

10.It is difficult to pull off a colorful palette

Many brides worry that they will have to either settle for a winter wonderland theme or a Christmas inspired palette, to keep it nice and attractive. This isn’t necessary. Warm, bright tones and metallic shades look wonderful in winter wedding palettes. This is the time when you can add bling to your décor to have sparkle and shimmer. Deep jewel tones like sapphire, emerald and berry colors make beautiful color palettes. If you are fond of patterns, you can even use this at your wedding. In fact, choose any color combination and any theme that you want, and find the right balance so you can pull it off successfully. Take a look at this Pinterest board for some glamorous and interesting combinations to inspire your wedding planning.

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So, that brings us to the end of our discussion. Didn’t we tell you that you didn’t have to worry much about planning a winter wedding. It isn’t a compromise, and you needn’t settle for anything if you plan it properly. In fact, when you do plan it properly, winter weddings are one-of-a-kind. The best thing is that it is the perfect romantic start to the rest of your life with your partner. Now tell us, do you think you are more inclined to be a January bride, or would you take the safe route and get married in spring?

Every winter bride needs the perfect wedding dress to look the part. Whether you prefer glamorous and sexy, or elegant and classic, we have hundreds of wedding gowns for you to choose from. Come visit our bridal gallery at Best for Bride and make your pick today. Don’t forget the rest of the beautiful women in your bridal party. With dresses for bridesmaids, flower girls and mothers of the brides, as well as evening gowns and cocktail dresses for all your pre-wedding celebrations, we have you fully covered. So, what are you waiting for? Begin your wedding shopping experience right away.

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Wedding Elegance on a Dime: 10 Savvy Tips to Plan Your Big Day on a Shoestring Budget!

7 Tips to Help You Sell Your Wedding Dress [Step-by-Step Guide]

For most couples, their wedding is the single most important celebration in their life, till now. It can be confusing when you want to celebrate this big day in the best possible way, but are worried about how much this will cost you. After all, it is just one day, and is it worth spending years paying for the debt that you incurred on the celebration?

Different couples have different takes on this. So, if you have the budget and want to have a big bash on this special day, so be it! For those who want a smaller celebration that is intimate and meaningful, yet easy on their pocket, here is some help.

Here are ten tips to help you plan your wedding on a small budget, so you begin your life together as man and wife without worrying about the money you busted.

1.Stretch your dollar to the most–Borrow or recycle

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Trimming down the wedding guest list is a necessity for any budget wedding. So, no surprises there! When you have a smaller guest list, it is possible to recycle things, make use of what is available, or borrow things for the occasion. If you have an eye for details and a knack for mixing and matching, there will be no trouble executing your wedding details in the most impressive manner without it costing you a dime. Trays, platters and plates are wedding essentials, and if you have a close-knit group of family and friends who can lend you things from their homes, you can create an impressive buffet arrangement with what you find.

Recycle everything from your wedding dress to the centerpieces and décor, and your wallet will remain plump. Since you will anyway be setting up home after the wedding, it is a good idea to buy things for the wedding décor, that you can re-use in your new home. Sarah, the hardworking bride, tells us how she managed to pull off her stylish wedding for less than $6000 by using such options. Her wise planning included trays from Target for her dessert table, that she could take home with her and use again. Read more about her brilliant wedding here.

2.Eliminate non-essential vendor services

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There is no hard and fast rule on what you should have at your wedding. This is all a matter of priority. So, splurge on the essentials that you simply must have, and eliminate or step down on those that you can do without. You can always substitute certain vendor services with affordable options that will work. For example, you can save a chunk of your budget by eliminating the band and DJ from your celebration. Instead, compile a playlist and play the songs using a good stereo system. You can do your floral décor with what is inexpensive and easily available, and eliminate the services of a florist. Or, forego the makeup and hair artist’s services for the wedding day, by doing it yourself. Just make sure that you know what your priorities are, and don’t compromise on them. The rest is up to you to take or leave, as your budget permits.

3.Find a cheaper dessert option instead of the wedding cake

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Wedding cakes are more about the look, than the flavor or taste. Most guests remember how the wedding cake impressed them, but won’t always recollect the taste it had. Some may even have skipped dessert altogether after the heavy meal they enjoyed. However, cakes are expensive, and so you should think of whether you really want it. There is a world of desserts waiting to be discovered, and these are even more enticing than a slice of wedding cake. So, step away from cake and turn to alternate options for a wallet-friendly, practical and delicious choice that is bound to impress. This article on the wedding blog of Apartment therapy provides some unusual options that will have you saying, “Why didn’t I think of it?” You can also refer to this previous post for more ideas on what to serve instead of cake, at your wedding. Choose a truly unique dessert and one that you love, so your wedding has a sweet ending that is both delicious, personal and delightfully inexpensive.

4.Serve family-style dishes

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A welcome alternative to the plated meal and wedding buffet, serve family style dishes at your wedding. Not only does this bring down the cost considerably, these are hearty meals that everyone will naturally enjoy. When you choose a family style meal, you will need less service staff, which is again a budget winner. This article on the Huff Post tells us that family style wedding dinners are better than buffets and plated dinners, since they are the middle ground between the two. It is more elegant than a buffet and less formal than a plated meal. By serving items on large platters that can be passed around, you can also eliminate elaborate table décor, not to mention the casual and informal vibe that this activity can create. Don’t skimp on the quantity of food available, just choose dishes that are interesting and filling so your guests aren’t left hungry. This idea is also perfect for wedding parties that include children, as you needn’t plan a special menu for the younger taste buds in this case.

5.Keep to local products for the bar

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Instead of having the standard open bar, give your wedding a unique twist by serving up local fare that you can buy from nearby vineyards or breweries for a fraction of the cost. Not only will your guests have plenty of new and unusual options, but you will also be thankful for how cheap it will be. Also, switch out the champagne for the toasts. Guests can toast with whatever they are drinking. After all, the sentiment counts, not the details of how it is done. If necessary, add some non-alcoholic drinks as refreshers and serve them at the beginning of the reception. This will not only help your guests feel refreshed at the beginning of the function, it will also reduce their capacity to drown in alcohol later. If you should splurge on anything, it should improve the appearance of the drinks served at your bar. Inexpensive garnishes and colourful mixers are all it takes to dress up drinks and make them look festive and more expensive than they actually cost you.

6. Forego the extras

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All the little things add up quickly, and you can stay ahead of the game if you stick with the essentials only. So, forego elaborate decorations and trimmings for your wedding favor wrap-ups, menu styling and floral décor. Consider whether you really need things like a dessert table, coffee bar, photo booth or individual place cards. Rather than aiming for perfection, you can work with a tight budget if you look at the bigger picture and execute it with simplicity. So, the fewer textures in décor, the lower it will cost you. Similarly, go with simple menu choices that are full of flavour and compensate for not looking too great. Your favours do not need satin bows that will mostly end up in the trash, nor do you have to spend a fortune on signboards when your guests can find their way at the venue, without them.

7. Go with an artificial bouquet that you can DIY in advance

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Flowers are an expensive factor at weddings. Minimize the cost by choosing alternative options for your décor, or keeping floral arrangements to a minimum. The bridal bouquet is one essential, though. Despite this, there is no condition for your bouquet to be made with real flowers. You can add your own DIY details to this accessory of your wedding dress ensemble, by making your own bridal bouquet with alternatives like cloth or paper. Unlike other elaborate DIY projects that consume time and effort, your bouquet is a simple and relatively easier option to handle. With a little crafting knowledge, this is the perfect way to have an attractive bouquet, sans the cost. Check out some great tutorials on creating amazing bouquets, at this link here and here. The best thing about choosing to DIY your bouquet is that you will have a keepsake from your wedding that you will forever be proud of making.

8.Rent what you can

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With wedding dresses, wedding accessories, décor and more available to rent, you can find plenty of economically viable choices for your wedding day. Renting is a practical and sensible option unless you are particular about owning what you wear or use on your wedding day. After all, most of these things won’t find a second use. So, why waste so much money by buying all of it, when you can get what you want for much cheaper? Bridal shops like Best for Bride allow brides to rent their wedding dresses for a fraction of the original cost to look great on their wedding day without the hefty price tag. If not the dress, you should definitely consider the accessories. Imagine wearing a grand tiara and looking like a princess on your wedding day, even when you don’t have to buy it. By renting part or most of your wedding ensemble, you can look fantastic on a tight budget, and isn’t that how you should be on your wedding day?

9.Reduce the number of wedding party members

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A big wedding party translates into extra expenses not only for the members in it, but also for the bride and groom. You will have to set aside a part of the budget for buying gifts, bouquets and many more things for the members in your wedding party. This can quickly add up. Think of whether you really need so many people beside you at the time you say “I do.” Wouldn’t it work just as well if they were seated with the rest of the guests and took home wedding favors that were much cheaper? Plus, by keeping your wedding party to the bare minimum, probably just your maid of honor and two bridesmaids, you do not have to worry about ruffling feathers when you do not ask someone to be on the list, or making anyone who secretly isn’t keen on it feel uncomfortable by inviting them.

10. Weigh your options

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Even when it concerns things that you simply must have, weigh your various options and find the one that is practical yet costs less. For example, if you must hire a limo for you entrance and exit, go with a black one that will cost much lesser than a white or silver limo. Similarly, think of monochromatic bouquet options and simple bouquet arrangements instead of complicated flower arrangements that will cost more. In case of table décor, choose basic, but classic materials to do the job, instead of fancy table décor that will cost more but perform the same function. We suggest you prioritize value over look, and you will find choices that are appealing but inexpensive.

Making smart moves when planning your wedding will help you save up more for the more important thing—the rest of the life you will share together. And memories don’t depend on the tiny details, it is always the big picture that matters. So, tell us your budget ideas that helped you get the most value for money at your wedding.

To find great offers, deals and discounts on wedding dresses, accessories and décor, check out our special offers page at Best for Bride. Our lowest price guarantee also ensures you find a fabulous wedding dress at the best price possible when you shop with us. Alternately, consider our rental dress and accessory services if you want a cost-effective solution to your needs. For all this and more, check out our website at Best for Bride by visiting this link here.