An ugly wedding budget secret that you probably won't learn until it's too late is that dress alternations cost a fortune; in some cases, they can cost as much as your dress. Lace hems, (actually, lace anywhere) sequins or beads that have to be replaced, major renovations to sleeves or necklines and bustles can add hundreds to the cost.
So keep it simple when you look for wedding gowns.
So keep it simple when you look for wedding gowns.