Best place to buy ball gowns in Jacksonville, NC??

Military ball season is underway in the Jacksonville area and tons of ladies (myself included!!) are looking for great deals on gowns!  Having been in the military, and also attended Marine Corps balls as a civilian, I've seen my fair share of the good, the bad and the ugly!

I'm hoping to impart some of my experience to help others understand what the military ball is for, what to do and not to do, and even find some great deals!
In the past, I've usually tried to hit the gym and the tanning bed so that I look perfect next to my honey in uniform.  What I've found is, it's not as much about you, as it is about him.  So my biggest tips are spray tan, spanx, and have fun.
There aren't many venues in the Jacksonville area, so we've gone to balls in New Bern, Raleigh, Wilmington, and Greenville.  All within a couple hours, but it makes it much more enjoyable if you can stay the night of the ball.  If you end up driving to any of these locations, keep in mind you may have to park and walk to the ball- it may be a good idea to bring shoes to walk in and change later.  Or even change into your gown there!

Your date for the night will be in uniform, so anything black, blue or red will go great with their Marine Corps duds.  Silver and gold are also great choices to match with their medals and awards!  Typically, you can expect a cash bar, dinner and dancing after the ceremony.  

The Marine Corps is steeped in history and tradition so the ceremony consists of a message from the commandant, as well as a birthday message to the Marines.  Remember, the ball is about the Marine and the ceremony is to honor the tradition.  Don't bring your drama.  The distiguished guest will impart some of their experience and knowledge to the crowd and it's a very honor filled moment for all involved and typically includes several toasts.  The cake cutting is usually performed by the oldest and youngest Marine and cake is served!
This is generally the sequence of events, and remember, many people did a lot of work (mostly your FRO!!) so make sure you thank them.  It will go a long way!  Military balls are kind of the grown up version of prom.  
If you keep your dress simple and elegant you can't go wrong.  It's usually a good idea to go floor length and not expose too much of "the goods," as well as cover up tattoos, if possible.

I hope this helps clear up any questions or confusions as to what to wear, and what you can expect.  Let's talk about getting a great deal on a dress!!
I've reworn and recycled several of my dresses in the past, and have always gotten compliments.  Let's face it, you're going to wear the dress for a few hours, one night a year.  There's no reason to go crazy with it.  I always recommend for ladies to check out the thrift stores in the area as well as the dress events which your FRO can help you with.
If you're an active duty female, reading this blog for your male date, a tux is appropriate.
Classics and J. Nicholson are dress boutiques in Jacksonville that provide gorgeous options, just keep in mind what you're going to do with the dress after you've spent the money on the dress.  Lejeune Yard Sales has a lot of groups with ladies swapping dresses and reselling them as well.  So check those out!

Please post any comments or advice out there and share away!!  As always, if there is anything I can help with in the real estate world- whether you're looking to buy, sell, rent or invest in real estate, please just let me know!

Amanda Parmer
REALTOR
910.545.0450
www.JacksonvilleNorthCarolinaHomes.com