First, congratulations on your engagement. I must have missed it back a month or so ago when you announced it. I’m happy that you found the right person.
At the end of that thread you said:
Was that the store bought dress you posted a pic of in the OP of this thread?
You only get married once…or twice. So enjoy the day for you, your fiance’, your parents, etc. It’s a time to celebrate…so you want to look good, because you’re the belle of the ball! Sounds like it’s going to be a pretty big shin-dig with 250+ guests, so you will want to look your best, and pay homage to whoever you want to. WRT the dress, you’re only going to wear it once, so don’t worry too much about it being sturdy etc.
I’ve posted this before, my first wife’s wedding dress cost about $300. My second wife’s dress cost around $5,000, more than my entire first wedding cost. Both days are very special memories to me. What matters most is what’s gonna make you feel the best on that day. It’s your day!