running of the brides

"Know first who you are; and then adorn yourself accordingly." --Euripides

The Filene's Basement "Running of the Brides" sale, like Christmas, happens only once a year (in New York). So when I discovered that the sale was happening at the 14th Street/Union Square location on February 29, less than a month in to my engagement, I thought, "Why not?" With no pressure to buy anything, I dragged along the only person crazy enough to wake up at the crack of dawn and help me fight off crazy brides to find the perfect dress for my big day-- and thus began Sara's first official task as Maid of Honor. Sleep deprived and all, I can say that the event was definitely worth it, even if for the experience and nothing else. Here are a few snapshots of some of the dresses I tried on (some successes, and some not-so-successes), none of which shown here I actually bought:


To all future fiancees out there, I definitely recommend stopping by the sale, if timing falls right. The few tips I have are (1) arrive early -- we arrived around 6:30 AM and doors opened at 8, (2) bring at least one friend -- to help with zippers and finding more dresses, (3) wear tights and a tank top -- everyone just changes in the middle of the store, (4) bring a camera -- to review your selections, (5) grab as many dresses you can that you like in your size and be willing to trade for dresses later, (6) have fun!

Three hours and 21 dresses after I first set out to buy my wedding gown I walked away with not one, but two gorgeous dresses, for a grand total of less than a thousand dollars. And I even made it to work by 10:15 AM. Impressive, right? My only problem now is deciding which one to wear! :)

And I even made it into the gothamist, among other papers. Click here for more details.

"Your beauty should not come from outward adornment... Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight." -- 1 Peter 3:3-4