The Seattle Wedding Show caters to budget-conscious couples Downtown on Jan. 3-4

A quick perusal of the message boards on TheKnot.com reveals that the reach of the flagging economy has extended even into the normally robust world of weddings. Many couples say that had they known how bad the situation would become they would have waited before planning a wedding. Brides are worrying about job layoffs affecting what their families can afford to spend on the big day, and guests are rescinding their RSVPs to destination weddings as quickly as you can say "Bahamas."

The Seattle Wedding Show has gotten the message and catered their 2009 show towards budget-conscious brides and grooms with perks like two days of admission for the price of one and gowns and shoes on sale for deeply discounted prices.

The show will feature over 400 photographers, caterers, florists, bakers, DJs, officiants, graphic designers, wedding planners and representatives from destinations and event spaces pulling out all the stops to get couples to spend their precious wedding dollars with them.

Prices on over 1,000 gowns and dresses for brides, bridesmaids and moms from Benita's Bridal, Bride's Outlet, Molook's, Princess Bride, Proms & Promises and Weddings With Joy will be slashed at the show's annual sale. New this year is Shoebilee, a bridal shoe extravaganza sponsored by All About Weddings, where over 500 pairs of shoes will be up to 70 percent off.

Fashion shows are planned for both days, featuring the latest in gowns and tuxedos, including plus-size gowns and mother-of-the-bride dresses.

The show is happening on Jan. 3-4 at the Washington State Convention Center. Tickets are $16 at the door, $14 if ordered by Dec. 31 at http://www.weddingshow.com/. Kids under 12 are free. Guests who purchase at least two tickets online will receive a free copy of Seattle Bride magazine and a Spa Scotta gift bag, plus entry in Macy's grand prize giveaway. Discount coupons are available at Macy's Gift Registry, US Bank, Safeway Floral Departments, La Belle Elaine's, The Tux Shop and Marcella's La Boutique. Guests who attend Saturday will receive a hand stamp that allows them back into the show at no charge on Sunday.

A portion of each ticket price will be donated to Gilda's Club Seattle. Visitors are encouraged to bring new or gently used formal and semi-formal clothing for Cinderella's Trunk, which will be collecting them to give to women, men and teens who can't afford to purchase them for events like prom, parties and weddings.

For more information visit http://weddingshow.com/.

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