For many brides, the entire bridal experience boils down to one thing: The bridal gown. People may forget about the food poisoning at the reception, the candles that almost set the church on fire and even Aunt Gertrude’s adventures at the open bar, but everyone remembers how a bride looked when she walked down the aisle. It’s a classic first impression. Unfortunately, in today’s economy, it’s an impression that’s becoming harder to make.
One affordable option is wedding dress rental. Granted, it’s an unconventional idea that may seem a bit shocking at first, but in reality wedding gown rental is the ideal way to achieve a million dollar look for a fraction of the cost. Think of it as the bride’s version of a tux rental. Wedding gown rental shops are specialty stores that make their money by offering repetitive high quality. Therefore, when you rent, you are only paying a small portion of the cost of the items. So that $3,000 gown that you had your eye on may only cost a few hundred dollars to rent.
Most bridal rental stores are very accommodating. Many don’t mind ordering a brand new dress for a client because the owners know that they will recoup the purchase price on future rentals. Also, if, after you wear the gown, you find that you can’t bear to give it back, most stores will put your rental payment towards the purchase price.
If you do consider renting, be wary of the less than reputable shops. These stores aren’t as concerned about the cleanliness of their products and they may try to force brides into purchasing a dress simply because alterations were required. Respectable rental shops know how to clean their gowns so that each one looks brand new regardless of how many times it has been rented. These businesses will also contract with a seamstress who is skilled at making temporary but flawless alterations that can be reversed for future clients. Additionally, most rental retailers are full-service shops. Many offer petticoats, tiaras, veils and all manner of accessories to complete your wedding ensemble.
Remember, it’s a wedding dress not a financial funeral dress. With a little unconventional ingenuity you can make a beautiful first impression the right way!
Submitted by D. Middlebrooks-Bernal, Budget and the Bride, www.budgetandthebride.com
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