Photos: Searching for a budget wedding dress in Atlanta

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Photos: Searching for a budget wedding dress in Atlanta

Photos: Searching for a budget wedding dress in Atlanta

AJC digital producer Yvonne Zusel and AJC Atlanta Bargain Hunter Nedra Rhone visit Carrie Huyett owner of Carrie’s Bridal Shop in Chamblee in search of a dress under $1,000. Zusel has looked at a range of dresses and has some favorites, but she is open to exploring the shop, which features dresses priced from $99 to $1,000.

This dress with ruching, organza overlay and buttons down the back is only $99. Yvonne wants to take in the sleeves and remove the flower which could start to add up in alterations. Generally, if you’re buying an inexpensive dress, you don’t want to pay a lot for alterations.

At $899 this dress comes in just below Yvonne’s targeted price of $1,000. The dress has taffeta on top and an organza skirt in a flower pattern. It is comfortable and well-fitting and would require few alterations, but Yvonne isn’t sure how she feels about the poofy bottom.

We all agree the illusion neckline and lace overlay with beading would please Yvonne’s mother, but Yvonne isn't a fan. Not even the bargain price of $899 is enough to sway the bride.

This taffeta gown with illusion neckline, keyhole back and beaded belt, comes in at an affordable $599.

This crowd favorite is only $899 and would not require any major alterations.

Carrie suggests Yvonne adjust her heel height for this gown to avoid hemming the bottom. It’s another way to save on dress alterations.

How much for this strapless column style dress with a sweeping train and pearl/lace overlay? Only $599!

To help brides stay on budget, Carrie only shows them dresses in their price range. Lace and beading are some of the pricier embellishments, she says. Shopping is by appointment only, but during special sale events, she sets up racks of $99, $199, $399 and $599 dresses for a public sale.

Carrie Huyett designs all the gowns at Carrie’s Bridal. All of her dresses are under $1,000 and are sold off the rack in sizes 0-28.

This mermaid style dress was quickly vetoed by the bride. It went down so fast, we didn’t record the price.

When you’re shopping on a budget, narrow your choices to two dresses, Carrie says. Don’t look above your price range and never leave a dress with a seamstress unless you get a price quote.

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AJC digital producer Yvonne Zusel and AJC Atlanta Bargain Hunter Nedra Rhone visit Carrie Huyett owner of Carrie’s Bridal Shop in Chamblee in search of a dress under $1,000. Zusel has looked at a range of dresses and has some favorites, but she is open to exploring the shop, which features dresses priced from $99 to $1,000.

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