One of the scariest things about planning a wedding is the high price of wedding dresses.  Some are expensive enough to make a bride swoon...not from the look of her groom, but from her reaction to the over-priced wedding dresses.  However, unless you have nothing better to do with your money, there is really no reason to go crazy on a wedding dress.  Looking for discount wedding dresses is definitely the way to go.

Hunt down the bargains.  Many bridal shops have annual sales or put their off-season dresses on sale 1-2 times per year.  This is an ideal opportunity to score a beautiful, possibly designer gown for as much as half off.  Keep in mind that some of these sales can be a bit over the top in regards to the brides trying to score the perfect dress.  Most of the sales are "grab and go" and there are really no consultants helping you out.  You may even be out of luck when it comes to finding a dressing room.  Therefore, it would be a good idea to wear a swimsuit, leotard or catsuit so you're not showing your goodies to the world while trying on your dream wedding dress.

Think about gently used.  Consignment shops and thrift stores are great places to shop for discount wedding dresses.  They are also great resources for bridesmaids dresses and mother of the bride dresses.   Don't be turned off by the thought of a second hand dress.  Most consignment stores only take top quality merchandise.  Also, remember a wedding dress has most likely only been worn once for a few hours. Unless it is badly stained, it should be like new.  There are some things you should remember when shopping in consignment and thrift stores.  Beware of any marks, stains or strange smells.  Also, check the stores return policy.  If there is a no return policy, be sure to try the dress on and make sure it is the one you want before you actually purchase it.  Also, be aware of the price.  The gown should not be priced any higher than 50% of the original price.  

Be non-traditional.  If you are not the traditional bride, you might want to consider looking at short dresses or shopping in the department stores for evening gowns. Especially at prom time, you can find tons of evening gowns in white, off white, or even a color, that can double as wedding dresses.  You will save tons of cash by going this route.  Anytime you add the word "wedding" to anything, the price automatically increases. 

Something borrowed.  Why not let your "something borrowed" be your wedding dress?  You can ask a relative or a friend.  Some women preserve their wedding gown and save it for their daughter or just for sentimental reasons.  However, many women have no specific use for their wedding gown after their wedding day.  Why not hit up your friends or family that have no plans for their wedding dresses.  You may just be able to borrow a gown.  If not, maybe you could offer to purchase the gown at a deep discount.  

Last but not least is shop the internet.  If you have a pretty good idea of the type of dress you want, shopping online is a great way to find discount wedding dresses.  Of course, you also need to make sure you have plenty of time before your wedding to account for possible shipping delays and alterations that may be needed.