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Wedding Dresses - How to Find the Perfect One

sexy wedding dress
Wedding Dresses are the things that dreams are made of... sparkling beads, sequins and pearls along with lace, satin and silk.

Ahhh yes, that is what we have been sold on and taught from the time we are children.

Even the designers who make bridal gowns are very well aware of this.

Just take a look at all the bridal magazines, and you'll see their ads with references to fairytale weddings and storybook brides.

Although I was just going to stick with wedding reception planning, my research into the bridal apparel business, i.e. bridal gowns, have revealed so many tricks, scams and outright ripoffs that I felt I just had to write about this topic.

So I'm going to show you how to find the perfect dress that's just right for you and how not to get ripped off doing it.

So What Exactly Are You Buying?

Its a dress, but it's a really expensive dress. The average wedding gown costs roughly about $800 in most stores, no matter where you live.

If you go for one of the premium designer gowns, you could be looking at paying between $1000 and $2000 dollars easily.

You might actually be disappointed in what you can receive in terms of quality for $800.

It seems that the bridal apparel industry feels justified in overcharging for dresses with synthetic fabric, shoddy construction with unfinished seams and no lining.

If you went into a dress store in the normal world, your $800 would find a dress made of fine fabrics like silk or satin and lace, quality construction with the lining and finish seams. Maybe some sequins and detailing, but not so in the wedding world.

The actual cost of the wedding dress is just the beginning, there are many hidden costs as well such as undergarments, shoes, headpieces and veils and, jewelry.

And what if your perfect dress does not fit perfectly; alterations can cost as much as $75-$250.

Most of the bridal shops will require a 50% deposit on all special ordered wedding dresses with the balance being due when the dress comes in.

Some discounters both online and through mail order, require a full payment when you order. However, the discount (usually 20 to 40% off retail) may make this kind of transaction attractive.

When you do put down your deposit, be sure to use a credit card instead of cash.

When you pay with your credit card you have some protection to receive a refund if the merchandise does not live up to what you expected.

Should the bridal shop go out of business prior to receiving your gown, you can contact the bank that issued your card, and you'll most likely receive a full refund of your deposit (you should always check the rules with your issuing bank).

If you've already paid the bill, you still may be able to get a refund and should contact your card issuer for more information.

If the bridal shop only takes cash or checks, maybe look to purchase your dress somewhere else. This advice also applies to other deposits such as for your wedding cake, wedding flowers, photographer, etc..

Where to Go from Here

How to Find Bridal Shops? - Just where and how do you find a good place to buy wedding dresses?

How to Find Wedding Dresses on a Budget - Top tips on how you can save money on your wedding dress.

Wedding Dress Suppliers - Here you'll find listing of top online wedding dress suppliers with a special invitation out to readers to list their wedding dress supplier and if the experience was a good or bad one. Help someone else out if there is a great supplier to boast about or one to avoid.

Some of the Things to Watch out for While Shopping In Bridal Shops - They can be tricky...watch out for these games they will try to play.

Great Sources for Bridal Fabric or Trim - Check out these sources if you are interested in have a dress sewn for you.

How Long Does It Take to Order a Dress? Coming Soon!

Dress Shopping Strategies Coming Soon!

How to Spot Quality in a Wedding Dress Coming Soon!

Questions to Ask Bridal Shops. Coming Soon!

Top Money-Saving Tips Coming Soon!

Tips for Buying a Gown on an Internet Auction Site Coming Soon!

What Is a No-Frills Deal? Coming Soon!

Bridal Gown Myths Coming Soon!

How to Race for a Bridal Gown Coming Soon!

Helpful Hints for the Bride Coming Soon!