The bargain retailer will be selling wedding gowns through the weekend.
A wedding dress is one of the most important purchases for a bride. But the cost of a dress can vary depending on the type of materials and intricacy of the design. A 2017 survey by The Knot found the average cost of a dress with alterations to be $1,509. Add in a veil, shoes and other accessories, and you’re probably closer to $2,000.
This weekend, brides in Baltimore have a chance to get a dress for a fraction of that cost from an unlikely source, Ollie’s Bargain Outlet.
The discount retailer normally sells overstocks of housewares, toys, and appliances. But this weekend, Ollie’s will be having its first-ever wedding and formal dress sale. From Thursday, February 21 through Monday, February 25, eager brides can visit five Maryland stores to find a wedding dress at bargain prices. Ollie’s will also be selling formal and prom dresses, so bring the bridesmaids along!
The dresses are selling in three price categories: dresses over $2,500 for $299.99, dresses under $2,500 for $199.99, and formal wear valued up to $500 for $39.99.
There are no dressing rooms, so Ollie’s is suggesting you wear tank tops and leggings in order to try the dresses on. Each store will have a different selection, so keep looking if you don’t find one at the first store.
Locations participating in the wedding dress sale are Columbia, Glen Burnie, Randallstown, Dundalk, and Aberdeen.
The bridal boutique industry has faced mounting challenges from the internet in the past few years. Last November, David’s Bridal (home of the $99 dress) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, while Alfred Angelo abruptly closed its doors in 2017, leaving brides without their dresses.
Would you be willing to buy a "bargain" wedding dress for your big day? Or would you rather pay up for the perfect dress? Will you be heading to Ollie's this weekend? Tell us in the comments!
