It’s no secret that the economy is in a slump and people have less disposable income than they had before. However, traditions and rituals still go on in our daily lives, including weddings. Remember the adoration and awe that accompanied the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in Great Britain? The world was transfixed by the pageantry and beauty of all the events surrounding their nuptials. Perhaps you or someone you know is getting married and is in search of some creative ways to stretch your budget? Look no further than your nearest Goodwill store.

What’s that you say…Goodwill? Yes, Goodwill often gets donations of bridal attire, as well as formal wear that would be perfect for your big day. There are plenty of ways to utilize lots of items you’ll find there, adding elegance and style to your big day. Here are a few of my tips that definitely can ease your budget while keeping your glamour intact!

1. Take a plain wedding dress or white dress of your choosing and “bling” it up by artfully arranging lots of different rhinestone or crystal pins on one shoulder, at the hip, or décolletage, for a unique vintage look that commands attention in a good way. FYI, Goodwill often gets gently used, or even brand new, sample wedding gowns as donations year ‘round. It’s a good idea to check back frequently at your local store to see what they’ve just gotten in.

2. A smart bride can allow her bridesmaids to choose their own dresses from the large assortment of evening and formal attire at the Goodwill store. Just ask them to choose the same color. For example, pink, blue, green, (or any shade for that matter) because all hues will look marvelous when grouped together regardless of what style they are. If they don’t want to wear it again, they can just donate it to keep our theme of reduce, reuse and recycle going.

3. Need a Mother-of-the-bride dress? Look no further than your local Goodwill store for a sweet deal on a special occasion gown that will leave Mom crying tears of joy not only because she looks great, but because she didn’t break the bank to do it!

4. Gentlemen attending a wedding should be well suited. Goodwill is a great place for a “new to you” suit of clothes for the man in your life. Add in a nice dress shirt and tie and he’ll sweep you off your feet with the amount of money he saved!

5. Fancy handbags and shoes can add lots of flair and panache to any wedding participant’s ensemble. The Goodwill store has loads to choose from at a fraction of the price of retail. Look for satin, metallic or beaded treatments to make you feel special on this momentous occasion.

6. Ring bearers and flower girls need to look amazing as well and quite often I see lovely dresses for little girls in the children’s section at Goodwill. Boys will be boys, as we know, so why not look there for a fancy jacket, shirt and tie for your little one? There are literally tons of options on any given day just waiting for your perusal of the racks!

“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue,” are words from the past that we’ve learned when it comes to weddings. But there is one more word that we should add to that sentiment. How about green? Nothing could be greener than “reduce, reuse and recycle,” a motto Goodwill upholds and practices to provide vital programs that help our community. Congratulations on your big day and for partnering with your local Goodwill to make it a greener and more beautiful wedding as well!