For a high taste of unique beauty, it’s hard to beat Sarah Seven. Her bridal and ready wear fashions make a statement that say original loud and clear. Visiting her flagship store in NE PDX is like stepping into a time capsule when fabric mattered and detail reigned supreme. Known for her vintage inspired designs, Sarah Seven offers one-of-a-kind gowns as well as select favorites in her permanent collection. And her short dress creations offer lots of options for bridesmaids (I’m drawn to Mrs. Black from the Fall 2012 collection). Viewing is by appointment only or you can see her international collection online at Sarah Seven.
Category: Bridal Gowns
Vintage Love
Whether you are choosing your wedding gown, bridesmaid dresses or a wow outfit for the honeymoon, vintage is always in style. Fun, eco friendly and kind to the budget, vintage dresses offer plenty of eye and purse appeal. And sizing is usually generous which doesn’t hurt either. Shop your local resale and consignment stores for vintage finds or look online for some great deals. Etsy has a vintage category showcasing items from jewelry to gowns. Another favorite is Light in the box which offers vintage inspired dresses at bargain prices.
If you want to kick it up a notch, check out Rent the runway. Select your size, fabric color and the date of your event and shop from hundreds of celebrity designer fashions. I love that you can view the gowns from all angles AND they ship a backup size just in case. You have to provide your email address to get on the site but it’s worth it just to see the possibilities. A recent offering, for example, a Roaring 20’s blush silk gown by Narciso Rodriguez which retails for $2300 but rents for $300. Note: Sizes tend to be limited to smaller gals. LOTS of great jewelry and accessory options. Getting ready for the big day? How you say “I DO” does matter. Contact Jane Green for your perfect ceremony.
Recycle Wedding Deals
Find some great buys for your wedding day at Ruffled blog’s Recycle Your Wedding page. 
Deals like this Wtoo Vesper gown for $250 obo are posted by brides and stylists from across the country. You contact them directly and pay via PayPal. Browse thru the photo gallery for everything from dresses to decor items. 15 categories and hundreds of items. Love that Ruffled has a user friendly, no charge listing process making it easier to sell your stuff after the big day. They provide the vehicle and you get the money. Talk about a win-win!
Big day coming up? Contact Jane Green, Licensed Officiant, for customized and creative ceremony ideas.
Bridal Gown Deals
Searching for a bridal gown? Mindful of your budget? Check out the super deal on NEW gowns at the Discovery Shop in Vancouver, WA. Over 100 gowns were donated to the little resale store that supports the big mission of the American Cancer Society. Sizes range from 6 to 18 and include styles from Jessica McClintock, Monique Luo and more. There are also some “worn once” gowns at terrific savings. Original retail prices starting at $800 into the thousands – yours for $100 to $150. The shop needs to clear floor space so get there soon. Find your dream gown and support a super cause. Now that’s a happy ending! The ACS Discovery Shop is located at 2011 Main St., Vancouver, WA. Open until 4:30 M-F and 4:00 on Sat. Closed Sun. 360-695-8215. You may want to call ahead to inquire about gowns as they have more off site. Click here for information on the American Cancer Society. What’s Your Fairytale?
Disney (as in amusement parks and movie studios) collaborated with Alfred Angelo and introduced their first Fairy Tale Wedding line in Chicago in 2010. Using classic animated stories for inspiration, the gowns evoked the essence of princesses everywhere. What a great way to blend beloved childhood stories with your own happy ending. Are you a Jasmine or a Cinderella? Maybe a Belle? I’ve always been partial to Sleeping Beauty. View the new 2012 collection to find your favorite and here’s to happily ever after.
A FESTIVE HEART 