Whether you're dressing up or dressing down, this chapter focuses on clever ways to obtain the right look at the right price.
WEDDING SECRET #13. PUBLIC PROPERTY BELONGS TO YOU, TOO.
Did you know that many city and state-owned parks, gardens and historical buildings are available for ceremony and reception, at a mere fraction of the cost compared to a hotel or catering hall? The wedding industry keeps this information out of your hands, and public agencies don't promote it because they don't need the hassle. Just an example: the sprawling Greystone Mansion, the largest house in Beverly Hills, California, overlooks Los Angeles and is owned by the city of Beverly Hills. It's available for rent at less than $800.
WEDDING SECRET #30. IT'S NEVER "TOO EARLY" TO START SHOPPING FOR THE DRESS.
This is probably the most expensive dress that the bride will ever buy. Start shopping early and you'll probably see two seasons of dresses before making this all-important decision. Pick up the leading magazines (Modern Bride, In Style Weddings, etc.) and start your search there.
WEDDING SECRET #31. VISIT AT LEAST TWO BRIDAL SALONS FOR THE WEDDING DRESS BEFORE HITTING THE SAMPLE SALES & TRUNK SHOWS.
Brides, shop around plenty before attending a trunk show or sample sale. Why? Those "great discounts" demand that brides choose a dress within 24-72 hours.
WEDDING SECRET #32. ALWAYS ASK FOR DISCOUNTS AT THE BRIDAL SALON, NO MATTER HOW EXPENSIVE THE DRESSES ARE. YOU'LL PROBABLY GET IT.
The bridal industry is undergoing tremendous change. David's Bridal Shop®, the largest discounter in the bridal business, drives down prices and threatens to put many independent bridal shops out of business. There's never been a better time to bargain and get the best deal.
WEDDING SECRET #33. PITFALL: DRESS DEPOSITS.
Don't place an order for a dress unless you're 100% sure that "it's the one." Many brides waste hundreds of dollars on non-refundable deposits.
WEDDING SECRET #34. WEAR A STRAP-LESS BRA FOR TRY-OUTS.
Try on dresses with the strap-less bra you'll most likely wear on wedding day.
WEDDING SECRET #35. AVOID DRESS FATIGUE.
Today's brides are busier than ever, juggling the demands of family and work. But don't book more than three appointments in a day. You'll get dress fatigue and rule out a dress that deserves consideration.
WEDDING SECRET #36. LIMIT THE WEDDING DRESS SEARCH PARTY.
It's tempting to think there's strength in numbers, but it's not the case here. Bring a close friend or relative and keep things streamlined.
WEDDING SECRET #37. BRIDAL SHOPS SELL USED DRESSES "NEW."
It's hard to believe, but many bridal shops sell once-worn dresses as "new" but at a discount. Always ask, "is this new?"
WEDDING SECRET #38. PITFALL: CHANGES AFTER YOU'VE ORDERED THE DRESS.
Bridal shops make a mint when you change your mind about something after they've sent the order to the manufacturer. Additional lace, the extra bead; here's where you get pinched.
WEDDING SECRET #39. THE DRESS HARDLY EVER ARRIVES ON TIME.
Allow for a full 6 weeks AFTER the date the shop says your dress will be ready, just in case disaster strikes at the manufacturer, at the shop, on the truck in between, etc.
WEDDING SECRET #40. MEN: PAY FOR COMFORTABLE TUXEDO SHOES.
The groom has a lot less to think about, but a comfortable pair of tuxedo shoes is worth the extra cost.
WEDDING SECRET #41. A GOOD BARBER SHOP WILL GIVE THE GROOM THAT EXTRA TOUCH: THE CLOSEST SHAVE.
Most men have never had a true close shave. Find a good old-fashioned barber shop in the area and ask for a shave with the straight-edge razor, brush and non-aerosol, alcohol-free soap. Why? It's simply the closest, most comfortable shave possible. The rewards: non-irritation and the healthy, happy you want on wedding day.
WEDDING SECRET #42. NOT ALL TUXEDOS ARE CREATED EQUAL. FIND THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOU.
The tux needs to feel comfortable on your frame -- avoid jackets that tug and pull. Unless the groom is tall and thin, he needs to think a little bit about the tux. Tall and muscular guys should opt for the vest instead of a cummerbund, and avoid double-breasted jackets. Short and slim, choose a two-button jacket with a little extra in the shoulders. Short and broad, the answer is a one- or two-button jacket with a shawl collar.
WEDDING SECRET #43. THE GROOM IS THE MAN OF THE HOUR.
The groom should wear something special: cuff links, a jacket with tails, perhaps a bow tie that set him apart from the groomsmen.
WEDDING SECRET #44. PITFALL: MEN CAN, AND DO OVER-ACCESSORIZE.
The rest of their lives they could care less, but some men overcompensate on the big day. Boutonnieres and handkerchiefs are never worn together. The groom's attire must suit the formality of the wedding when in doubt, ask the tuxedo shop what's appropriate.
101 WEDDING SECRETS
