I was very sorry to read about Maria's dilema; I am getting married in May, and as a frantic bride to be, I know how stressful it is to find a nice gown. My fiance and I set a small budget for my dress, because we are going to Europe for our honeymoon, and want to spend the most money on something other than a wear-one-time-dress. Of course, everyone told me to go to davids bridal. I have never been in there to try on gowns or anything like that, but I have seen their web site, and I agree with most of you ladies, they have alot of rubbish for a very high price!!! I mean, $600.00 for a simple piece of white cookie cutter looking fabric, how dull, boring, and overly expensive. I'd feel more beautiful wearing my ivory satin bathrobe!!!. But I wanted to let you know, a search engine on the computer is a great thing; I have found a site called thebridalshop.com, and they are gowns which are brand new, but which have been discontinued from their design house. Many are between $99-$299.00. And they are very pretty. I figure it this way, I can't try on the dress before I purchase, but I will get it way in advance and alter it myself. Their veils are discounted, too. Styles, sizes, colors are limited, but give it a try. You may find something nice. I am going to order my dress next week. The one thing I like, is that I am picking out the dress I want, without having to listen to some commission oriented salesperson go on and on about how this or that gaudy dress looks fabulous on me. Remember, there are so many options. Do not go with what you think is the "only game in town". Also, if you don't want to save your gown, try finding a rental store which rents gowns , or check out consignmet shops which may sell gowns. It may sound like alot of work, but it might save you some agravation like poor Maria. I hope she had a lovely wedding regardless. Good luck and God Bless all brides!! posted 1/20/04 Jo
