One of the first questions people often ask a bride-to-be is "Have you found your wedding dress?" Perfectly natural, since the bride is the focus of attention at the ceremony and reception. There are so many options when it comes to sticking to a budget and still looking fab on the big day!

In fact, being "green" is the new white when it comes to wedding dresses.  Repurposing a wedding dress from other brides is actually trendy!  Besides consignment or thrift stores, look to Craigslist and other online classifieds such as Gainesville4sale.com and the Gainesville Sun, where photos and a detailed description are often available. "It would be important to consider the cost of tailoring and cleaning when you find one you like," said Michael Warren, publisher of Gainesville4sale.com. "I would expect most sellers would be negotiable, and smart buyers would likely find terrific bargains if they pay attention." While some dresses have been worn, others are brand new.

Speaking of brand new and totally styling, check high end brands' Web sites, such as the Ann Taylor wedding dress section, for some great values!

Here are two brides' paths to designer-like gowns on a shoestring budget -- Barbara Test designed and sewed a gown for her daughter Laura, who tried on hundreds at high-end bridal stores. Laura knew she wanted a strapless bodice that accentuated her curves, and her mother came through with a stunning dress at a fraction of custom prices!

Bride-to-be Tanya Gleeson found "the most beautiful, white, strapless dress" at a consignment shop bridal section -- with a $325 price tag. "The beading is exquisite, the back laces up and makes me feel amazing. It fits like a glove right off the rack without any alterations," said Tanya. "It isn't what I first pictured myself in...but after a few dress appointments, and me not even coming close to loving anything, I started to think I was going to have to settle for a dress that I didn't love." Now she feels like a "total beauty" in her bargain dress!

And don't forget to look for sales at dress shops or the off-the-rack options at bridal stores. Wedding Expos are also a great way to check out the latest fashion to know if that bargain gown is still in style.

After all, the bride need only dazzle for one day! Saving money on the dress means there is more in the budget for something else!

(For story suggestions or feedback, contact Carla Hotvedt at SILVER IMAGE® Weddings via carla@silverimageweddings.com)