Say “I Don’t” to the Dress

I recently had the pleasure of accompanying my younger sister, Sari, shopping for a wedding dress for her fall 2011 nuptials. Sari looked absolutely beautiful, and her dress of choice is stunning. In fact, I got misty-eyed just looking at her in the gown.

But as I was watching her try on dresses, I couldn’t help but think about my own wedding and the process of buying the coveted dress. And I came to a conclusion. I seriously think if I had to do it all again, I would consider either renting my wedding dress or buying it from a consignment store.

I know, I know. I can hear the gasps. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime day, you say. The dress should be beautiful, special, and original. But thinking about it now, I don’t think I’d spend hundreds of dollars on a dress that you wear for maybe eight hours and then is stuck in a closet or garage for the rest of eternity. And let’s face it. Even if you do – God forbid – end up remarrying, are you really going to use the same dress? Of course not! And what are the odds your daughter will really want to wear your dress?

I just found my wedding budget and it looks like I spent $600 on the dress from David’s Bridal; $200 for accessories (veil, slip, bra, shoes); and $160 on alterations. So almost $1,000 for the entire get-up! And this was 10 years ago! I can’t imagine how much it would be now.

Don’t get me wrong. I loved my dress and it is fun looking back at it in photos. But I’d recommend spending the money on photography or the honeymoon (or an open bar).

So I don’t know. I certainly know this is only one former bride’s opinion, and is certainly not for everyone. Maybe it’s been 10 years and I’m over it. Maybe I’m wiser with age. Maybe I now better understand the value of a dollar (or $1,000). All I know is this is how I feel and that if I had to do it again, I’d say “no” to the expensive dress.

By the way, I recently polled my Facebook friends as to whether I should sell my preserved wedding dress. Here are a few of the responses.

Are you serious? Because I’ve been thinking the same thing.

You’re not going to wear it again? ; )

I’m hanging onto mine for future dress up fun.

Has Sophie seen it? Don’t sell it until you go through this phase with her.

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