I have been doing a lot of research on eco-friendly wedding practices and on planning a wedding on a budget. One item came up over and over in both categories… used wedding gowns.

I have always been a thrifty person. I love getting designer jeans for $5 at a Thrift Store. Bargains are key and can definitely be a big help if you are looking to save a little money on your wedding.

I decided to investigate the pros and cons of purchasing and wearing a used wedding gown.

Used Gown Pros

1. You will save money. Whether you want an expensive designer gown or a more modestly priced dress, used is always cheaper than new. The money you save on the gown will allow you to either spend more money on another aspect of your wedding or you could actually put the left over money in the bank!
2. If you want to create an old-world look for your wedding, nothing that is manufactured today matches the attention to detail and workmanship found in a vintage wedding gown. Furthermore, you can be fairly certain that none of your friends will be wearing the same gown at their wedding.
3. If your used gown belongs to a family member or a close friend, the sentimental value to the gown is priceless. I cannot imagine a more significant way to honor a loved one than to wear her wedding gown

Used Gown Cons

1. Someone else has worn the gown. If you are superstitious or just feel funny about wearing someone else’s clothing, this may not be the best solution for your wedding gown purchase.
2. You will most likely not have an opportunity to try it on. You will have to go on faith that the size is correct and you may miss the “salon experience” that is unique to purchasing your wedding gown.
3. A used gown may have stains and tears that won’t be evident until you own it.

If you decide to purchase a used gown, read on for some helpful tips:

1. Purchase the used gown through a reputable seller. There are many services on the Internet that broker used gowns. I recommend checking out Ebay.
2. Find a good seamstress and dry cleaner to help with repairs prior to purchasing the used wedding gown so you don’t have to scramble when you receive the it.
3. Ask the seller specific questions about the gown. Are there any flaws? What are they?
4. Try to get photos from all angles of the gown. If there is something really wrong, you should be able to see it in the pictures.
5. Pay for the gown with a credit card. If the worst happens and the gown is a disaster when you receive it, you will have some recourse against the seller.

As with all other purchases, follow your instincts. If you don’t have a good rapport with the seller or something feels suspicious, don’t buy the gown. You will find others out there.

I found this article in the Canadian Press about easy ways to save money on your wedding. There are definitely items in this article I agree and disagree with in this. See my comments below in bold:

Easy money-saving ideas for any wedding

Looking for ways to save on your big day? Here are some easy tips:

-Be your own DJ. Creating your own iPod playlist for the evening saves cash and makes sure you won’t hear the “Funky Chicken” for the third time.

Quite honestly, I do not agree with this idea. Your entertainment is one of the most important parts of your reception. The DJ/Band is literally the life of the party. Imagine your dance without the lights, sound, action and most importantly the feeling.

If you need to save money this is one way, however I recommend letting this be a last resort.

-Make it a brunch or a cocktail party. If you want a cheaper menu, switch the time of day or stick to finger food. (Note that a buffet isn’t always cheaper than a sit-down meal.)

Brunch is one of my FAVORITE wedding reception ideas. I have one coming up that I am really excited about. The event starts out with butler passed mini-pancakes topped with blueberries, mini Monte Christos and pigs in a blanket. For Bruch they are starting with a mimosa pour, and then their guests will be dismissed to a full brunch buffet with made to order omelet station. For dessert they will offer their guest mini cheese cakes. Because of the time of day everything is less expensive including the food. This is a GREAT option that your guests will remember.

-Raise the bar. An open bar is a big expense, even though most guests will stick to champagne and wine. Instead, create a specialty cocktail or two and choose a mid-level wine. Try to work out a deal to return any wine your guests don’t drink.

I do agree with this. Also, doing a cash bar is not as much as a faux pas as it use to be and in many cases it can help you reach your food and beverage minimum.

-Use simple flowers. Maria McBride, author of “Party Basics for New Nesters,” suggests spreading an affordable flower like daisies or babies breath everywhere, creating foliage-only centrepieces, or putting small plants into an affordable clay or glazed pot. Or make your own vase out of recycled tin cans or wine bottles.

I agree with this. I had a wedding a few years back and the bride told me that she had told her florist that she only wanted to spend $10 per centerpiece. The florals were exquisite.

-Create your own centrepieces. Candles or fruit can save money and look pretty in batches. “Mass out votives everywhere, cluster them in groups of 10 – it enhances the mood and it offers the most affordable bang for the buck,” McBride says.

This is a fun idea. Never underestimate the power of cylinders with floating candles.

-Think rustic. Decor that looks cheap in a hotel ballroom can be charming in a backyard, farm or vineyard. Just pick a spot that specializes in special events or you’ll be saddled with unfortunate extras, like port-a-potties.

Ummm….port-a-potties?!?!?!?!