EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the fourth part in an online-only series by two Gazette staffers who are each planning their own wedding this year. Editor Ashleigh Oldland is getting married this April in Dana Point, and Staff Writer Stephanie Minasian is getting married this August with a ceremony in Huntington Beach and a reception in Long Beach.
For someone who loves to shop as much as I do, I was extremely nervous before I went to look at wedding dresses last weekend.
It was a whole event. My mom flew down from Northern California, and I had four of my seven bridesmaids with me to make it a party. They came prepared, and brought two bottles of champagne and glasses to toast if I found the one.
My heart was pounding, and my chest hurt from the stress, but I knew I was surrounded by the most amazing women I know, and that was comforting.
As a bride on a budget, I went to a popular bridal store with great deals. Slipping on the first dress, I stepped up on the pedestal and looked in the mirror. Everyone gasped, and I could see my mom starting to lose it. It wasn't the one, but after two other dresses, I came out and I heard the champagne pop.
My mom was moved to tears, and the girls screamed that this was it.
I really loved the dress. It fit perfectly and matched my personality - there was nothing wrong with it, so I should get it, right? The store was a whirlwind, with girl after girl coming out of the dressing rooms and taking turns admiring themselves in the mirror. It wasn't intimate, and I felt rushed.
I suggested we break for lunch and move on to the next store - another budget friendly retailer with what I imagined would have a better atmosphere.
When we arrived at the second bridal store, I walked into a bridezilla war zone. A group of girls were shouting profanities at each other, threatening to kick each other out of the wedding and causing everyone to feel extremely uncomfortable. I wanted to walk right out the door, but I decided to try on dresses. Everything seemed like it was forced. My girls' energies were depleted and I was worried that I dragged them out all day for an unsuccessful shopping trip.
I was looking for that instant spark, and never found it -until Monday rolled around.
My mom and I decided to try one more store with just the two of us. I called a fancy bridal boutique in Orange County and told them my budget, and that I was curious if they could accommodate me. They told me to come over immediately.
The store was like a dream. Crystal chandeliers lit up the bridal rooms, and I met with friendly staff. The couture dresses hung like sculptures in an art gallery. I knew I was going to walk out with a dress.
My consultant told me that she had several designer samples that were up to 85% off that I could try on. After putting on the second dress, my mom and I began to cry a little, and I knew it was the one.
The dress was from a few seasons ago, so they sold it to me for more than 85% off the retail price. I was so floored, I decided to splurge on a hand-made satin veil and pearl and Swarovski Crystal earrings.
I'm so happy I decided to look around before I settled on a dress. I'll be walking down the aisle in a couture gown that I never imagined I could afford. I can't wait until he lays eyes on me.
Particularly recommended: beach wedding dresses
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