I bought the wedding dress in the photos above for $100.

Whattttttttt? I know we all hear stories about how brides spend hundreds and thousands of dollars on their wedding dress (or dresses!). In a world where weddings are starting to cost 40-50k, is a budget-friendly dress even an option?

Yes! And I’m here to share a few local shops and (surprising) ways that you can save $$ on the dress.

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Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting, yet budget-draining experiences of your life. Fortunately, when it comes to your wedding attire, there are plenty of options in Portland, Oregon, that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re a local bride or planning a destination wedding in this beautiful city, you’ll find a range of budget-friendly wedding dress shops that offer stunning gowns without the hefty price tag. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best budget-friendly wedding dress shops in Portland, so you can say “I do” to savings without compromising on style.

Brides for a Cause

Located in the heart of Portland, Brides for a Cause is a bridal boutique with a philanthropic twist. They offer a vast selection of pre-loved and sample wedding dresses from various designers, all at discounted prices. The best part? A portion of their proceeds goes towards charity, making your wedding dress purchase even more meaningful.

Adorned in Grace

Adorned in Grace is not just a wedding dress shop; it’s a non-profit organization committed to preventing human trafficking. This bridal boutique offers both new and gently worn wedding dresses at affordable prices, and your purchase supports their mission to combat human trafficking. It’s a beautiful way to find your dream dress while making a positive impact on the world.

Ania Bridal

Ania Bridal, located in the Pearl District, is renowned for its stunning designer wedding dresses. While they do carry high-end gowns, they also have a wide selection of budget-friendly options for brides with cost-conscious minds. Ania Bridal is known for its personalized service and a wide range of styles to suit every bride’s taste.

Charlotte’s Weddings & More

Just a short drive from downtown Portland in Beaverton, you’ll find Charlotte’s Weddings & More. This bridal boutique offers a wide range of wedding dresses, including some budget-friendly options. Their team of experts is dedicated to helping you find the perfect gown while staying within your budget.

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Amazon: The Ultimate Convenience

Amazon, the e-commerce giant, has become a one-stop-shop for practically everything, including wedding dresses. You’ll be surprised at the variety of bridal gowns available at a fraction of the price you might find at traditional bridal boutiques. Plus, you can take advantage of Amazon Prime for fast and free shipping, making it a convenient choice for last-minute shoppers.

Shein: Trendy and Affordable

Shein is known for its trendy and budget-friendly clothing, and they have a great selection of wedding dresses too. Whether you’re looking for a simple, elegant gown or something more modern and unique, Shein offers options to suit a variety of tastes. Just be sure to check the reviews, the review pictures, and sizing carefully to ensure a good fit.

Red flags: While Shein is known for being budget-friendly, they have also developed a reputation for unethical business practices and treatment of their factory employees. Use your best judgment and do your research before purchasing from them.

Facebook Groups: A Treasure Trove of Secondhand Finds

Social media has transformed the way we shop, and Facebook Groups have become a hub for buying and selling wedding items, including wedding dresses. Many brides sell their gently used gowns at a fraction of the original cost. Join local or national wedding resale groups to explore options in your area. You might just stumble upon your dream dress at an unbeatable price.

Remember that dress at the beginning of this article? It came from a local Facebook group, and had never been worn! $100 for such an incredible dress is pretty hard to beat!

Here are a few of my favorite local Facebook groups for purchasing dresses:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617673642028265/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/687646481445161

https://www.facebook.com/groups/545087448996510/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingsonabudgetpnw/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/337986376406863/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/portlandweddingcommunity/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/266530790505355

https://www.facebook.com/groups/122784445111396/

Mercari: Buy Pre-Loved Wedding Dresses

Mercari is a popular resale platform where individuals can buy and sell a wide range of items, including wedding dresses. It’s worth browsing through Mercari’s wedding dress listings, where you might find dresses that have only been worn once and are in excellent condition. Plus, you can negotiate prices directly with sellers for even better deals.

Thread Up and Still White: Resale Platforms for Bridal Wear

Thread Up and Still White are dedicated to secondhand fashion, making them excellent places to find pre-owned wedding dresses. Thread Up offers a curated collection of secondhand clothing, while Still White specializes in wedding attire. Both platforms have filters to help you narrow down your search by size, style, and budget, making it easier to find your dream dress within your price range.

Tips for a Successful Budget-Friendly Dress Hunt:

• Plan Ahead: Start your search early to allow time for alterations and potential shipping delays.
• Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your dress and stick to it.
• Know Your Measurements: Ensure you order the right size by having your measurements taken professionally.
• Read Reviews: For online purchases, read reviews and check seller ratings for added confidence in your choice.
• Consider Alterations: Keep in mind that alterations may be necessary to achieve the perfect fit, so budget for these as well.

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