You did it, bride! The wedding is over and things have settled down (hopefully!) Adjusting to married life is a whole new adventure, and as you’re navigating that, you’re often left navigating the huge pile of decor in your living room- what do you do with the wedding things once the wedding is over?! Often the biggest question for brides is, “What do I do with my wedding dress?” Don’t worry, we got you covered so you have one less thing to figure out!
CSBbride Amber with @tj_images
Wedding dress preservation
Getting your gown preserved helps clean up any armpit or grass stains that were from the wedding day! We highly recommend doing this to keep the gross away and also to make it easier to donate or give to a loved one. This can be a little pricier of an investment depending on the damage done, but definitely worth the splurge! Lots of bridal salons and alterations specialists offer this service. We don’t, but consider asking who did your alterations!
Donate it
This is a super popular option that brides do! We get asked all the time if we accept donations, and at this time, we do not. Looking into some other options of where to donate it is a great way to help a bride-to-be who wouldn’t be able to afford a gown for her wedding. It’s also a great way to say, “Thank you” to those who serve others! Below is a list of organizations that make donating easy!
Brides Across America (This site helps military families get access to a gorgeous gown for their wedding! What better way to thank them for their service than donating your gown!)
Angel Babies (This organization saw the need to help and support families who lost their babies. Donating your gown helps grieving families have a gorgeous outfit for final photos and burial services. Consider donating to help a family that is hurting!)
Local non-profits and shops with similar missions to ours would be a great option!
Local musical theater organizations that could use it for costuming! Many schools have arts programs with very limited budgets, and your gown could help offset some costs for production.
Save it for the kiddos in your life
Have a daughter of your own or a gal in your life that is like a daughter/sister? Maybe they would love your gown not only for the style of it, but also for the sentimental value! Also, sharing different accessories like the veil you wore or jewelry could be a super sweet touch! To ensure that the gown is still in great condition, we recommend still preserving it in the meantime.
DIY a new outfit from it
Can’t get enough of your gown?! Why not hit up alterations again and get it shortened into a cocktail dress for special events? You can also dye it a fun color for a fancy event you’re attending! We’ve had so many brides get a gown from us and dye it and show their creativity! The easiest material to dye is definitely tulle, but with enough research and determination, you’ll be a DIY queen! You can also create it into a cute little outfit for going out with the girls. The options are limitless!
Figuring out what to do with your dress can be a little daunting, but there’s lots of good options. Keep it easy for you and if you donate, consider doing it toward a cause near and dear to your heart!