I read about a new term this week - the recessionista - that woman who always looks good even on a dime.  I was glad to hear it because I like to think of myself as a recessionista even when the economy is strong.  While I love Prada and Louboutins as much as the next girl, red soled pumps do not grace my closet nor my tootsies and I am perfectly content with window shopping.

Let's face it, it's easy to have a beautiful wedding and look your best when money is no object, but that is just not wedding planning reality for most couples.  So, armed with this new term that describes the sensible shopper, I decided to see what ensemble a recessionista bride could come up with on a budget. 

Here is the skinny: create an inspiration board with a bridal ensemble that includes at a minimum the wedding dress, handbag and shoes - and as a bonus, any other personal accessories.  The total cost of the items must be $1000 or less, but in true recessionista style, you can use an item's sale price while adding up your finds. 

Send your board as a jpeg to blueorchiddesigns{at}gmail.com with "Inspiration Board Challenge" in the subject line. I'll post the top three up here and everyone will vote for their favorite.  One lucky recessionista will win a $50 gift card to Target!

{Above Photos}
Lulu Leather Peep Toes, $198 from J Crew
Peony Silk-Lined Clutch, $75 from Etsy Seller Red Ruby Rose
Rosette Trapeze Dress, normally $348, currently $138.90 from Nordstrom
Recessionista Bridal Ensemble Total: $411.90

Good luck and have fun window shopping!



 
The Fine Print:
{1} Contest will close Wednesday November 19th at 11:59 pm PST and is open to anyone - brides, vendors, random blog visitors, etc.
{2} Entries must be sent as a jpeg to blueorchiddesigns{at}gmail.com with the subject line "Inspiration Board Challenge". The subject line is super important because filters will be set up for easy organizing.
{3} Include photo credits and links to sources for each item. Also include the cost of each item and the grand total. Grand total must not equal more than $1000.
{4} Limit one entry per person.