Jennifer's dress drama

As we work to stay simple and fun (and comfortable, too!) while adding value to the day, Jennifer's dress hunting priorities have morphed in the last week.

At first, I wanted to rent a dress, but I'm learning that the option isn't as good as it sounds. In fact, I learned from a salesperson that the prices are close to the same as purchasing a dress, but the styles aren't very good. The positive side of renting is that I don't have to deal with the dress later when it will simply hang in the closet. Keeping a dress that I wear once isn't appealing to me.

Then, I thought about having a dress made. Keith wisely steered me away from that option because of the potential stress and conflict that could happen just days before our wedding. It sounds like a value-added detail, but the price of sanity for me and another person made me move on to another option.

My next idea was borrowing a dress that already belongs to someone who loves me. I'm sure I could love a dress for reasons that have little to do with appearance. I still welcome that option if there are any offers out there. It would be one of the simple but important elements of the day.

I'm also looking at new dresses to buy. One salesperson suggested that I check on bridesmaids' dresses that I can order in white. I loved that idea! The dresses are more simple, which is more like me. They are also a better use of cash, which I find more ethical for a one-time wearing.

I've tried on a few dresses, which were all pretty. Since I don't wear a lot of dresses (I often wear the one I bought when I prayed in Shaun and Anna's wedding in 2002!), I don't know if anything will jump out at me as "my wedding dress." Lynne encouraged me to hold out for that, and other people have agreed with her.

I'm going to check out dresses at another store today. I've done a lot of looking at their website online, so I have style numbers written down already. On my list are seven bridal gowns and three bridesmaids styles (most of the attendant dresses at this store come in everything but white and ivory!).

Wish me luck! Or patience! Or both!