Designer Wedding Gowns... Cheap

As you know, I advise outdoor brides not to overspend on wedding gowns. What's a girl to do, though, if she really wants a designer dress? Buy one cheap! Mark your calendar for the upcoming spring wedding dress sales at Filene's Basement stores: February 19 in Boston (actually at the Hynes Convention Center, since the flagship store is currently closed) and March 19 in Atlanta, Georgia. Before you participate in the "running of the brides," read my 10 tips for finding a bargain bridal gown at a Filene's Basement wedding dress sale.

Colorado Church to Give Away Free Wedding Dresses

Calling all outdoor brides who live within travel distance of Colorado Springs, Colorado: On Saturday, May 31, Living Hope Covenant Church will give away 63 new wedding dresses valued at $1,200 to $1,500, plus 25 other formal gowns. Tickets for the gown giveaway are $30 in advance and $40 at the door, and each ticket holder will receive one dress. It's a good idea to arrive ahead of the 1 p.m. start time, as the free wedding dresses will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis.

According to the Colorado Springs Gazette, which has additional details, the gowns were donated to the church by a clothing store owner. Here's the part I love best: Not only will 63 brides be walking away with the deal of a lifetime, the proceeds from the sale will go toward the creation of an outdoor wedding sanctuary at Living Hope Covenant Church. To purchase your ticket, call the church at (719) 531-5101.