How to Budget for Your Dream Wedding Dress
- Michelle Tinsley
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
When it comes to planning a wedding, few decisions feel as important (or emotional) as choosing the dress. But if you're a bride who wants to feel incredible on your big day without spending a fortune, you're not alone. At Lily Francis Bridal, we work with women across Cambridgeshire who want to stay true to their style, values, and budget.
If you’re currently wondering how much you “should” spend on your gown, this blog is for you. Let’s break down what goes into a wedding dress budget and how to find a beautiful, meaningful dress you truly love, without overspending.
What’s a Realistic Budget for a Wedding Dress?
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by what you see online. Some articles will tell you to budget £2,000–£5,000 for a gown, but in reality, the latest reports suggest UK brides spend between £1,200 and £1,500. And the good news? That’s more than enough to find something breathtaking.
At Lily Francis Bridal, we believe you don’t need to compromise on experience or elegance just because you’re cost-conscious. All of our gowns are under £1,500 and are created by British designers who value craftsmanship, quality and comfort, whilst remaining truly breathtaking in design.
What Does “Affordable” Really Mean?
We like to think of “affordable” as value-driven. It’s not about the cheapest dress - it’s about finding a gown that feels like you at a price that aligns with your priorities.
When you shop with us, you’re investing in:
Made-to-order gowns: Thoughtfully designed and created just for you.
1-to-1 appointments: A stylist dedicated solely to you during your visit.
A stress-free process: Guidance from start to finish in a relaxed setting.
We offer the full bridal experience, even if you’re watching your budget.
Tips for Budgeting for Your Wedding Dress
Here are some of our top tips for staying on track without missing out:
1. Know Your Upper Limit
It’s helpful to go into dress shopping with a firm upper limit in mind. That way, you’re not tempted by dresses outside your range, and your stylist can focus on finding gowns that truly suit your budget and style.
2. Don’t Forget Alterations
Most brides will need at least minor alterations. Set aside £100–£300 in your budget for this, and ask your bridal boutique what they recommend in advance.
3. Start Shopping Early
Buying your dress early allows more time to explore your options without pressure. Since all our dresses are made to order, we recommend shopping 12 months before your wedding.
4. Be Open-Minded
Many brides are surprised to fall in love with a style they hadn’t considered. Come with an open heart and trust your stylist - they might just help you find “the one” in a place you didn’t expect.
© Emily Bateman Photography
Affordable Wedding Dresses in Cambridgeshire
If you’re a Cambridgeshire bride and are searching for your perfect wedding dress, we’d love to welcome you into our boutique in Huntingdon. Whether you’ve been dreaming of soft romantic lace or a clean, modern silhouette, our carefully curated collections from UK designers offer something for every taste and budget.
Most importantly, every bride who walks through our door gets the full VIP experience, regardless of what they spend.
Ready to Find Your Dress?
Booking an appointment at Lily Francis Bridal means:
A calm, welcoming space to try on gowns at your own pace
A stylist who listens, guides, and celebrates with you
A chance to find a dress you’ll love and feel confident purchasing
If you're ready to start your journey, we’d love to hear from you. Head to our website - www.lilyfrancisbridal.co.uk/book-now - to secure your private appointment.
We can’t wait to help you find your perfect fit!