Running of the Brides - 2nd thoughts?

lesleyb01

Hi,I recently did the Running of the Brides event in Boston.  I had such a blast and found a gorgeous Maggie Sottero dress that I loved, for only $250.  But now I need to get alterations and cleaning work done outside of a formal dress shop which is proving to be a hassle.  Has any one else bought their dress on the cheap like I did and was able to fix it up nicely, alternations and cleanings, at a price less than having gotten the dress the "normal" way, through a dress shop?  I'm thinking maybe the additional footwork on this dress might not be worth it.Thanks!Also - if anyone is interested in the Running of the Brides experience, I wrote about it on my blog. A total alternate universe, let me tell you...

jagore08

I haven't but you should post this on your local also. Someone might be able to give you the info for a great seamstress and a low price. Seamstresses can also recommend a good cleaner for you too.

jnesiba

I bought my first dress at a bridal salon...and the second one on a whim at a sample sale at the Pronovias store in NYC!  I am wearing the second one.  I got a great deal on it (75% off!), but it was very dirty and had several rips along the bottom hem and in the back around the zipper.  But it didn't matter--I loved it too much to not get it!Luckily, there is a lady in my area who was able to clean and completely fix the gown.  It looks perfect now!  And she did not charge too much at all--the total costs of the second dress ended up being a little less than what I paid for the first dress!I agree with the above post--ask around for a talented, local seamstress who might also be able to clean your gown.If you decide that it is too much work, don't feel bad and stress out about it!  Keep looking!  But if you really love the dress and you can see yourself getting married in it, take the time to make it perfect!Do you have pictures??  What needs to be done to it?

JessK81

I also bought my (potentially first) dress at ROTB in DC.  I really liked it, even though I knew it needed to be cleaned.  After two months, I started having second thoughts and just went dress shopping today.  So, I'm with you--it was very easy to get caught up in the frenzy and low prices!Anyway, when I planned on wearing the Filene's dress, I called a local seamstress who gave me information for a local dry cleaner that does work on wedding gowns.  I haven't gotten price information on how much it would be to clean up the darker spots.If you love your dress, I think it would be good to have it cleaned and altered--especially if you can find a respectable tailor.  Yes, it's more of a pain, but I think you could make out well price-wise.  If you can find someone on your local boards to rec a tailor, they can point you in the direction of a cleaner (and vice versa). Good luck!