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Mar 12, 2009 9:50 pm US/Central
Plan A Wedding On A Budget For Less Than $500
NORTH TEXAS (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
Long before they get a ring on their finger, many brides start dreaming of the perfect wedding. But, during the recession some wedding bells are getting drowned out by the sound of the closing bell on Wall Street.
Brooklyn Reid is a bride to be. "When you're older and you're paying for your own wedding, you have to take into consideration the times right now," she said.
Groom Sean Wallace says his fiancée is a bargain hunting bride to be. "She searches day in and day out, trying to find the best deal," he explained.
Even in the $61 Billion dollar a year wedding industry, there are plenty of bargains to be found.
When it comes to gowns, many brides are turning to websites like Preowned Wedding Dress or consignment stores like Anonymously Yours in Dallas. Bride Lydia Guerrero said she saved a lot. "I saved I guess about $800 on my wedding dress."
Rene Bankston says 75 percent of the dresses at Anonymously Yours are sample gowns. ""We have over 400 gowns in here," the owner explained. "The dresses range in price from $89 to $899."
Similar savings can be found on wedding rings. Joe Amyx, of Amyx Fine Jewelry in Denton, said "You can find jewelry that has a history. That you're going to be part of the ring's history." Amyx carries everything from a $15,000 engagement ring to one that costs less than $300.
Many grooms are also finding deals on websites like I Do Now I Don't or by going to diamond wholesalers. Kyle Salzman says that's how he saved a bundle on his fiancée's Tiffany style ring.
Carla Pettway found a bargain for her wedding party. "I got my flower girl dresses off Ebay for $11.99!" she said proudly.
There are also deals to be found on food. Bambi Bach, from Bella Weddings and Events, gave one example. "We have our martini mac and cheese station for $3.95 a person.
Virginia Glover from Willow Creations suggests having alternative flower arrangements. "Have a vase there waiting at the reception and when their bridesmaid arrives, they just place their bouquet in there. There's your centerpiece," she suggested.
Instead of renting expensive venues, many brides are using the homes of family or friends for free.
To help save money many engaged couples are making some items themselves. Amanda Ferren, who made her own invitations, said "I did it with a computer software program that I already had."
Couples can even save $60 off the usual $71 marriage license fee in Texas by taking a free state-offered course before the wedding.
In the end CBS 11 News found that it is possible to get married for less than $500. Here's how -
Her Ring - from Amyx Jewelry; $256
His Ring - from I Do Now I Don't; $75
Her Dress - from Anonymously Yours; $89
His Tuxedo - rented online; $50
Marriage License - $11
GRAND TOTAL: $481
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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