I've been keeping the ladies forum updated on this but I'm going to share it again here because I'm so excited and happy XD
A week ago I was browsing the internet looking for wedding dresses in my budget. This is hard because...my entire budget for the dress, alterations, and the veil was $200. Most girls I talked to said this was near impossible -- but I'm determined to stick to my budget. After looking at several other websites, I tried eBay, and I looked for dresses under $90. Very few options came up, and most of them were used dresses bought back in the 80's. Finally, I found it. A used designer gown being auctioned off at a starting bid of $55. I looked at the description and read that it was altered to fit the previous bride...who happens to be my size and height, AND the veil was included for free.
I went to to place a bid, but noticed she didn't ship to Alaska. I messaged her, asking if she'd consider shipping to Alaska if I offered to pay the extra shipping charges. She kindly cooperated and edited her shipping preferences to allow Alaska. **
As the auction was closing, I was so paranoid that someone would outbid me at the last second, but I guess not to many brides are in the market for used dresses altered to a height of only 5'1", because I won!
The he dress just arrived today. My dad actually had to get into his truck and chase down the mailman because he just left a note saying the package arrived instead of actually getting out and giving us the package. I tried it on with a pair of heels...and it fits. Perfectly. Zero alterations needed. And the veil is beautiful.
So, I have a dress. I have a veil. I need no alterations. The grand total cost, including shipping, came out to $142.
It feels like a miracle. Jesus might as well have picked it himself.
** ps- this is not the same eBay seller I previously mentioned who didn't know Alaska was part of America.