A thrifty bride, Chloe Gregory, reportedly saved thousands on her wedding by opting for a gown purchased from the popular online retailer SHEIN. Walking down the aisle on August 23rd, the 24-year-old bride from Ammanford, Dyfed, Wales, felt like a 'princess' in her £80 dress, which many observers initially believed cost 'thousands'. Her story aims to inspire other brides to achieve their dream wedding without an exorbitant price tag.

Chloe and her now-husband, Ashley Hooper, meticulously pieced together their special day by sourcing items from various bargain websites like Temu and AliExpress to minimize expenses. Chloe's decision to forgo traditional bridal shops stemmed from a desire to avoid falling in love with dresses only to be disheartened by their high price tags. She had seen the SHEIN dress on TikTok and, after ordering it in early January post-Christmas day proposal, found it fit 'like Cinderella's slipper,' requiring only a hem alteration due to her height. The beauty therapist expressed surprise at the quality and intricate floral details of the dress, especially given its low cost, noting that her makeup for the day cost more.

The couple proudly stated their entire wedding cost approximately £7,000. Their primary splurge was on a photographer and videographer, believing it essential to capture precious moments. Other elements, such as candlesticks, table clothes, and fake flowers, were sourced from budget-friendly platforms like Temu and AliExpress, receiving compliments from guests who were unaware of their modest price. Chloe recounted that most guests were 'gobsmacked' by the £80 dress, with some comparing it to gowns they had purchased for £2,000 or more. She admitted that a few negative comments online suggested the dress looked cheap, but she attributed these remarks solely to her honesty about its Shein origin, emphasizing that without her disclosure, no one would have known.

Despite the occasional criticism, Chloe has largely ignored negative feedback, focusing on the overwhelmingly positive reception and her own feelings of confidence. She felt 'like a million dollars' and cherishes her husband's tearful reaction. Commenters on her viral post echoed a mix of reactions; a bridal consultant couldn't tell it was a Shein dress, while others, having purchased the same dress, celebrated the bargain. Chloe’s experience serves as a testament to the possibility of a beautiful, budget-friendly wedding, urging brides to look past conventional expectations and consider more economical options.