No Budget Christmas

There is finally another use for our card holder from our wedding. 

This year we are filling it with a few "presents" written on note cards. It's a bit of a modern twist on the love coupon classic. We chose options such as: 100 kisses, 5 things I love about you, and etc; but they can be as naughty or nice as you want them to be. 

On Christmas Eve night, after our special intimate dinner for two, we will take turns drawing a "present". I'm excited!  

Whether your finances are tied up with planning your wedding or this year has you being a bit more conservative with your money, this idea works. 

What would you write on your note cards?

3 Bridesmaid Dresses under $50 (and other good stuff)

This is the perfect time to shop for bridesmaid dresses for your upcoming wedding. 'Tis the season where dresses that are inappropriate for the winter go on sale. These clearance items can be perfection for your Spring/Summer wedding. The key is to open up your search to department stores and clothing stores. If you have not yet noticed, allow me to enlighten you. Anything with the word "wedding" attached to it usually carries a hefty price tag. In my opinion, it's yet another marketing scheme to prey on brides for impulsive purchases. However, in some cases the price increase is justified by the offering of personalized services and options. Whatever the case, I still believe that an in budget and in style wedding is within any brides reach. Trust me. The key is to hone in on your style and your budget. Do NOT buy stuff just because it is within budget. That's right. DO NOT. That would be the best way to blow your budget. Make a plan, and shop accordingly.

But oh yea.

This post is about bridesmaid dresses. Oh how I digress. Here are my picks. ENJOY! ;)

I love DIY bridesmaid options. In other words, I you set the style and your bridesmaids shop accordingly. It takes a little pressure off of the bride, and affords the bridesmaids the opportunity to choose a dress that they feel comfortable with financially. Cardigans are such a practical and chic way to infuse style into your wedding.  A dress is backdrop, but don't be afraid to merchandise it up a bit.

This DIY bridesmaid dress idea also works with little black (or little white) dresses, but of course you already know that. Here is a twist on that idea that really caught my eye.

This type of beauty speaks for itself. True story? 

True story.

The remaining looks are dresses currently available for under $50. Don't forget to think outside the ad. Find ways to add style, or better yet allow your bridesmaids to accessorize the dress how they wish. 

Either way, make it beautiful! 

Classic + Beautiful $39.99
Click here to view JcPenney ad.

Multi-wear Twist and Wrap Dress $31.99
This dress is available in 6 different colors and can be worn in about 4 different ways.  It's absolutely a winner.
Click here for Target ad.

Sleeveless Satin A-line Dress with Lace Detail  $29.99
The dress is on clearance there is only one color available and limited sizes.
Click here to view the David's Bridal ad.