From Decor to Dresses, Estate Sale Expert Reveals How to Save Big on Surprising Wedding Treasures (Exclusive)

"With a huge variety of items sold, shoppers are likely to find something unique that fits their event aesthetic," expert Bob Lang tells PEOPLE

A growing number of brides and grooms are embracing the "something old" tradition by mining estate sales for hidden treasures for their weddings.

Expert Bob Lang, brand president of Blue Moon Estate Sales, tells PEOPLE that wedding planning has taken a turn towards the "creative and crafty" in recent years, prompting people to hunt for unique finds at local estate sales.

"New trends from floral plates to vintage wedding decorations have contributed to estate sale attendance. Also, TikTok hauls have been trending with people sharing what they’ve found for their special day," he says.

Lang notes that estate sales have long attracted shoppers in search of decorative pieces and gifts for special events, from birthday parties and graduations to garden parties and family dinners.

Related: Woman Buys Stranger’s Antique Wedding Photos at an Auction, Tracks Down 85-Year-Old Bride and Returns Pics

He describes an estate sale as "a pop-up, retail-like experience" that is more elevated and professionally organized than, say, a yard or garage sale. They are typically held after a family member's death or when someone is making a big life transition like a move or downsizing into a smaller home.

For weddings in particular, estate sales can be an ideal place to score quality china, glassware, silverware, cake stands, picture frames, table toppers such as candlesticks, vases and doilies and more.

"Complete dishware and glassware sets can easily be found at just about any sale. With a huge variety of items sold, shoppers are likely to find something unique that fits their event aesthetic," Lang tells PEOPLE.

Other estate sale finds include wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and wedding rings, as well as lighting such as lamps and lanterns.

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The thrill of the hunt is part of the appeal of these sales, as you never know what you treasures you might discover.

Earlier this month, for instance, Blue Moon Estate Sales hosted a sale in Colorado with an extensive inventory of mostly never-used items originally purchased with the intent of starting an event planning business.

"They had unique themed bars, display racks, cake and cupcake display racks and stands, decor, fake floral arrangements, dishes, commercial shelving units, wall backdrops, chairs and benches," Lang says, noting that certain types of sales like this can be a treasure trove for wedding-related items.

"Definitely be on the lookout for warehouse, small business or restaurant clear-out estate sales," he advises. "These events can supply the entire event."

Related: Woman Finds $6K Designer Wedding Gown at Goodwill for $25, Plans to Wear It 'Whenever That Time Comes'

The expert also points out that visiting and browsing estate sales can also help brides and grooms find inspiration and spark ideas for their wedding theme or decor scheme.

And while estate sales might seem a bit intimidating — or expensive — compared with a casual neighborhood yard sale, Lang says "all are welcome" and "anyone can find something" in their price range. "Prices are determined fairly, and sales are hosted by professionals who are there to provide guidance and answer questions," he notes.

Blue Moon Estate Sales offers a free loyalty program where members earn one point for every dollar they spend. For those looking to buy bulk items for a big event like a wedding, the points can rack up quickly.

"This will allow them to save up points for money off future purchases," Lang says.

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