Your dress?

My silk dress cost over $6000, not including hollow-to-hem, alterations, etc. I started out looking at $1000-2000 gowns but the quality and artwork of beading is DEFINITELY worth it to me in the more couture gowns.

You said that you liked the beading, so just make sure that it is hand-done and not on a single thread. I think that you can get great beading and materials at a price range of under $3000 from designers like Demetrios, Mori Lee, Mon Cheri, Moonlight, etc. Honestly though once I tried on Eve of Milady / Amalia Carrara and later Reem Acra, Kenneth Pool, Ines Di Santo, Pucchi, and Lazaro - the quality of those dresses was unbelievable. I could NEVER look at others after that.

We are hopeful romantics I understand but to me saying that a gown is for 'just one day' is like saying the birth of your first child is 'just one day'. This is something that you will remember and relive every day of your life. I know that sounds harsh but it's how I feel.

By all means, please don't be offended but I think that as long as a gown makes a bride feel like pure magic when she marries the man of her dreams - it doesn't matter if it costs $1000 or $10,000!!!

ETA: Please note that I am NOT trying to start controversy. I had to tone down other areas in order to afford the dress since we're paying for our whole wedding on our own. I love all gowns though, no matter what, because of the symbolism involved.

I got my dress from Bridal Reflections in Carle Place. It was $3200, which was more than I had figured I'd spend. But I had a very difficult time finding a gown that was plain (no beading, lace, nada) and that was a silk/ silk blend fabric. It's made by Yolanda Couture, and I love it!

My dress was $750. It was and will forever be the most beautiful dress I've ever seen.

I was willing to spend more, but I got lucky and didn't have to break the bank on it.