| If you are like most brides you have unplanned | | | | goods. |
| wedding expenses and must somehow reduce the | | | | 5. Buy on eBay. There is always a wide variety of |
| budget. Fortunately, you can find a variety of | | | | inexpensive pieces available through auction or eBay |
| wedding jewelry for less than you thought possible. | | | | stores. Inventory changes constantly, so return often |
| Here are eight tips for doing so: | | | | if you do not find the right piece on your first visit. |
| 1. Buy replicas. From a distance and to the | | | | 6. Rent jewelry for your wedding. If you must have |
| undiscerning eye, cubic zirconia and crystal are | | | | fine jewelry but cannot afford it, rent pieces for the |
| indistinguishable from real stones. If you have fallen in | | | | ceremony and reception. |
| love with a piece of fine jewelry you cannot afford, | | | | 7. Make your own jewelry. You will enjoy the added |
| a similar piece made with these less expensive | | | | benefit of complete customization. Craft stores like |
| materials can look exquisite. | | | | Ben Franklin and Hobby Lobby have aisles dedicated |
| 2. Opt for silver or gold-plated jewelry instead of solid | | | | to jewelry-making supplies. You can also purchase |
| gold or platinum. To a casual observer, the difference | | | | supplies on eBay. |
| in quality is not obvious. | | | | 8. Consider borrowing. Wearing a piece from Mom, |
| 3. Consider inexpensive pearls (freshwater cultured | | | | Aunt Ellen, or a special friend can add sentimental |
| pearls are generally cheaper than other types). Or, | | | | value to the wedding while doing wonders for a |
| buy pearl-shaped crystals. | | | | strained budget. |
| 4. Ask for a discount if you plan to buy several | | | | There you have it! Eight ways to ease budget strain |
| pieces. Also, it cannot hurt to make an offer on a | | | | and still wear the perfect jewelry ensemble on your |
| piece. Designers, online stores, and other | | | | big day. |
| independents have some latitude when pricing their | | | | Article written by Bobette Kyle. |