LAKEWOOD, Ohio — Just like lots of brides, Sarah Menser is trying to save some cash.
"I definitely am a bride on a budget," said Menser. "I'm a graduate student so planning a wedding and trying to pay for school at the same time its a lot."
The first place she wants to cut costs is on her dress.
"I am trying to stay under $500. I know its a bit of stretch, but with stores like this I definitely feel like its a possibility," she said.
The store Menser is talking about is B. Free Bridal in Lakewood.
"It was my goal to take all the dresses that people now have in their closets after their weddings and don't know what to do with and really give them a second life," said B. Free Bridal owner Becca Ciamacco.
The store that opened in February boasts sizes from 0-24 and everything, including the designer gowns, is under $800 bucks. Ciamacco gets her dresses from past brides.
"I mostly buy from local brides here in the Lakewood and Cleveland area," she said. "I have a website form, so anyone who wants to sell their gown they just fill it out they send in pictures and then I offer quotes through the website."
Not only is this bridal shop budget conscious, its also environmentally conscious.
"Another motivating factor for brides who come in is just the ability to buy second hand to have less waste," said Ciamacco.
Don't worry ladies, you can still get your 'Say Yes to the Dress' moment.
"It's really my goal to provide the full bridal experience just for a much lower price," said Ciamacco.
"This shop offers so many options that I feel like everybody can find something that's within their budget and still feel comfortable in the dress," said Menser.
Right now, Ciamacco operates on an appointment only schedule. Head to her website or call (216) 202-0647 for more information.
