Cheap wedding gowns through consignment

Consignment shops are a great way to purchase wedding gowns cheaper than those found in the usual bridal boutiques. Since (in most cases) the item has already been used, it’s being sold at a discount, or at least cheaper than its original purchase price. If the idea of purchasing a wedding dress through consignment piques your interest, this article is for you.

Consignment shops are usually thought to be the same as thrift shops, but there are a couple of key differences. The first is that with the thrift shop, an item is donated and the donor receives no compensation in return. In some cases, the merchandise is worn out or damaged. With a consignment shop, profits are split between the consignee and the shop. In most cases, it’s either a fifty-fifty split or a sixty – forty split. Because the shop owners have to split the profits, they’re much more particular about what items are accepted for consignment. Usually, they won’t take anything that’s not in pristine condition. This isn’t the rule for all consignment shops, however. There are still those that will accept damaged goods.

In most cases, a price for the dress is set between the consignor and the consignee as soon as the consignment agreement is made. Because of this, the price can’t be dickered upon as it can at a thrift store and flea market. Something else to consider is that because the shop owner is splitting the profits, the price of the merchandise is higher than those found at thrift shops. Still, consignment shops are an excellent venue for finding an inexpensive bridal dress.

You’ll probably find that the higher end wedding dresses will be found in the more exclusive neighborhoods. While this means you may find a designer dress at a discount, it also means the dress can still cost a couple of hundred dollars. That’s not the rule, but it is a consideration. Since consignment stores in areas that aren’t so pricey yield goods with lower prices, you may find more bargains shopping in these types of neighborhoods.

Remember though, you get what you pay for. If you find a dress for a steal, examine it thoroughly. Check every inch of the garment for rips, tears, stains and any other damage. Make an assessment as to whether or not this is the type of damage you can handle by bringing the gown to a tailor or dry cleaner. If the damage can’t be repaired, there’s no sense in buying the wedding dress, no matter how inexpensive.

If you do find a wedding gown at the consignment store, be sure it’s the dress for you. Many consignment shops don’t accept returns. Before paying for the dress, learn the consignment shop’s return policy, and if possible, get the terms in writing. You may even want the shop owner to look over the dress with you to make sure there’s no other damage. The last thing you’ll need are surprises later.

Consignments shops are excellent venues for purchasing a wedding dress at a discount. Just be sure to inspect the dress for any damage and don’t buy anything thinking you can always return it. Chances are any damage is minimal and no one will ever know you needed to make repairs. Just because you’re buying discount doesn’t mean you won’t look special on your special day. It just means you didn’t spend as much as other brides to do so.