Month: May 2023

A wedding dress is a major purchase for anyone and is usually a one-time wear. If you’re not planning to wear your bridal gown again, consider donating it! Not only is this a great way to declutter your closet, but you can also feel good about giving back and possibly getting a tax deduction. Several nonprofit organizations and thrift stores accept wedding dresses to sell or distribute, as well as wedding dress accessories like veils and tiaras. Several of the companies listed below are also based locally, so you can give your wedding dress a second life and support a local community in the process! If you’re looking to get rid of a used wedding dress that you no longer want, consider selling it online! Websites such as Stillwhite and Once Wed make it easy to sell your dress at a price that’s right for you. The best part is that you can donate the money from your sale to a charity of your choice! Many couples are struggling financially during the COVID-19 pandemic and may not be able to afford their dream wedding. Donating your old wedding dress to a couple in need can help them have the happy day they deserve! The money from your donation can also be used for other expenses such as food, shelter, utilities, and medical bills. There are plenty of charities and thrift shops that accept wedding dress donations, including national organizations such as Goodwill. Locally, you can find more options by doing a quick Google search for “wedding dress donation near me.” Some of the organizations that accept donated wedding dresses specialize in repurposing them for other purposes. For example, the Angel Gown Program at NICU Helping Hands turns wedding dresses into burial gowns for infants who pass away shortly after birth. Another organization that resells wedding dresses for breast cancer awareness and prevention is Brides Against Breast Cancer. The proceeds from their resale help fund early detection education, research, and legislation. They also donate the dresses to organizations that support those who have lost a child during pregnancy or after birth. Most of the charities and thrift stores that accept donated wedding dresses have specific requirements. Most require the dress to be in new or almost new condition and less than five years old. Some will also require the dress to be cleaned before reselling it. If you’re unsure about the requirements for a particular charity, contact them in advance to confirm your wedding dress meets their needs. Also, be sure to store your dress properly for safe transport. Wedding dresses are bulky and fragile, so they can easily be ripped or damaged in transit if they’re not packed correctly. A simple wrinkle can rip lace or pull beads apart, and they’re white so even small stains can show up easily. To prevent this, be sure to store your dress in a garment bag or box that’s specifically made for this purpose.

When a friend posted on Facebook that she was going to sew an angel gown for a newborn infant who would be laid to rest soon, it touched her. Angel gowns are little frocks designed specifically for this rather tragically moving purpose—they are buried with stillborn babies or those who came into the world prematurely and were lost very shortly after childbirth. The frocks are pretty and give the occasion a sense of formality, and they ease parents’ bereavement while providing dignity for their child. Across the country, services that make the garments are making them available to hospitals and funeral homes to be given to grieving families free of charge. The dresses are often repurposed wedding dresses, but can be made from other dress wear as well. They are sometimes accompanied by a thoughtfully filled memory box. These are given to parents and nurses in the hospital and also directly to families so that they can hold on to a small piece of their child’s life that was tragically cut short. For the volunteers at these services, sewing angel gowns is a labor of love that keeps them uplifted in the face of such a sad and difficult task. Many have been bereaved themselves, and for them, the work helps them to heal. They do it as a way to pay tribute to their own loved ones who have passed away and to give hope to other families facing this tragedy. The women who make the gowns are often retired, and many of them are members of their local church. Judi Hauer, who started the Minnesota-based program called Angel Dresses, explains that her grandson was stillborn, and when she saw how the infants were typically dressed in ratty blankets, she wanted to start an organization that could provide a gown and other items to honor their little lives. The outfits are sewed by volunteer seamstresses, who sew them in their spare time. They also are busy with other community service projects and work at their own businesses or in volunteer positions. At Waterfront Studio, for example, Fleury and her students host a camp for aspiring artists and also make coloring books to melt down old crayons. The seamstresses’ children and grandchildren also get in on the act. Many of the organizations that make these gowns also have an international program, where a bride can donate her dress to a developing country (Guatemala is currently the location) and virtually meet the seamstress who will sew it. The dresses can be sent to that country or returned to the states, so that donors can choose how their gowns will be used. Pregnancy and infant loss are taboo subjects in our society, but the women who run these programs say that sewing these outfits helps to bring the subject out of the shadows and give families a chance to celebrate their children’s brief lives. They are a reminder that every life is precious, even when it is too short.

Children are a natural part of any funeral service and there is nothing wrong with allowing them to be present at their own family member’s funeral. However, it is important to consider how your child may react to this experience and the impact that attending the funeral may have on them in the future. If your child decides to attend the funeral, it is important to communicate this decision to those who are planning the event. They may be able to accommodate your child’s wishes to stay with a relative or friend or provide other options for them to honor their loved one, such as writing a letter, creating a memorial fund in their name, or a guestbook or video tribute to be shared during the service. Some children will want to see their sibling’s body and this is completely normal. It is important to explain that their sibling will look different than when they were alive and that they may have scars, bumps and bruises from birth or accidents but will not feel cold or pain. If your child wants to touch their sibling, it is okay to allow them but encourage them to gently stroke their hand or hair. Children can be unpredictable and it is helpful to have a trusted adult that they trust and know as their “funeral buddy.” This person can help them navigate the various activities and rituals of the services, answer questions, and take them for breaks when needed. A hospital funeral is a service that is often offered by the hospitals for an additional cost. This is a beautiful option for families that wish to have their baby or stillborn child’s life celebrated with a ceremony with their parents and siblings. When arranging a funeral it is important to understand that these events can be very expensive. It is a very emotional time and it can be difficult to make good decisions financially. Ultimately, it is your choice what you want to do for your child but if you need help, there are charities that can offer financial assistance for funeral costs. If your child decides not to attend the funeral, it is important to discuss why with them and listen to their concerns. Be respectful of their decision and let them know that they can always come back later if they change their mind. If they have a strong desire to attend the funeral but are struggling to cope with the emotion, it is possible to incorporate them in other ways such as by reading a poem or a prayer and having a private moment with their loved one before leaving the service. Children who are old enough can also participate in the service by singing a song or delivering a speech. This can be a very meaningful way for them to say goodbye and can help them to process the grief in a safe environment.

While babies will grow at an incredibly fast rate, it’s important to buy clothes in sizes that fit your baby right now. This way, you’re not stuck with an outfit that doesn’t work for your baby or is difficult to put on. Newborn: For newborns, the basic essentials include sleepers and footies. These will keep your baby warm, help them stay snug and are easy to change. They also look adorable and are perfect for outings. Onesies, or bodysuits, are another essential item. They come in a variety of colors and styles, and are easy to wash and dry. They’re available in long-sleeved versions for warmer climates and short-sleeved options for colder ones. Kimono-style baby tops are also a must-have for newborns. These shirts have side snaps that don’t hit a baby’s still-sensitive umbilical cord stump, and they’re comfortable for both you and your little one. They’re also soft and stretchy, which makes them easier to get on your baby and make them more likely to want to wear them. They’re also a great option for layering underneath dresses and shorts in cooler weather. You’ll want to get a few different colors of sleepers and footies, so you can mix and match them with other items in your baby’s wardrobe. You can even find a few sets in coordinating patterns to create an eye-catching ensemble. Other essentials: Beanie-style hats and fleece footie pajamas are both useful for keeping your baby’s head, ears and neck warm. They’re also a good idea for outings in winter because they keep your baby’s feet warm and cozy. When choosing the right baby clothes, be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and try on any pieces in person before purchasing. Some manufacturers have special length or weight recommendations, which can be helpful in deciding what to purchase. Avoid clothing that’s made from poor quality fabrics or stitching. These will be less durable and can fall apart easily after a few washes. In addition, look for products that have been Cradle to Cradle certified. These are environmentally friendly and do not use chemicals, dyes or pesticides that harm the environment or humans. These certifications ensure that products are manufactured in ways that are safe for humans and the planet, such as using renewable energy, recycled materials and waste reduction. They also aim to minimize the amount of water and energy used in production, which can save you money in the long run. The H&M Biodegradable Collection, for example, features 12 fully compostable baby pieces that are made from organic cotton and eschew metal trims and buttons. They’re a great option for those who want to reduce their impact on the planet and make their child’s first clothes last.

Burial gowns, funeral robes and shrouds are the last clothing that a loved one will wear before they are buried. Choosing the right burial clothes is a very personal decision that can be difficult to make, but it is important to remember to pick out something that is comfortable and looks good on your loved one. Funeral robes and burial gowns are available in many different styles, materials and colors. They are designed to be comfortable and fit the body in a way that makes it easy for you to dress the dead person in the most respectful manner possible. If you have an idea of what type of burial clothes your loved one would want to be buried in, it is important to share that information with the funeral director so they can ensure they are able to provide the proper clothing for the deceased. This can help make the entire process much easier for you and the family. Whether you are preparing for a formal or informal service, funeral directors can help guide you in making the right choices when it comes to burial clothes. They will often take your loved one’s preferences into consideration when determining what is appropriate for their services and burial. For example, if your loved one was a member of a religious faith that requires specific types of burial clothes, it is essential to consult with them regarding their preferences. For example, Catholics usually prefer to be buried in formal attire as this is seen as being respectful and in keeping with the church’s traditions. The burial outfit is also a way to show how your loved one lived their life. They may have had a favorite color that they would like to be buried in, or a style of clothing that represents their occupation or affiliations. A lot of people will want to be buried in clothing that they wore when they were alive, but this can be a very personal decision and it is important to discuss your options with the funeral home so they can provide you with a burial gown that is appropriate for your loved one. In some cases, it is also necessary to make sure your loved one is able to comfortably lie in the funeral gown or shroud before they are buried. This can be important if they have a medical condition that will cause them to not be able to sit upright or be able to breathe well in the burial gown or shroud. Another option is to select an outfit that will be able to be worn with undergarments during the burial. If the deceased did not always wear undergarments during their life, it is important that they be able to be worn with the burial outfit to ensure that they are not uncomfortable in the gown or shroud. Some of the most popular options for funeral garments are suits and dresses. These can be an excellent choice if your loved one was a professional, as they will have the most dignity in these attires and the funeral director can ensure that the deceased is properly dressed during the services and burial.

When brides shell out a ton of money for their wedding dresses, it can be hard to know what to do with them once the big day has passed. Some choose to save their dresses for the future and others like to pass them on in a way that benefits someone else. But whatever your reasons for donating your wedding dress, there are many charities that will be glad to take it off of your hands and help someone in need. Some charities sell used bridal gowns and accessories at a reduced price, so the donor can feel good about passing on a treasured possession while helping others. Some also offer a tax deduction or break for donating to them. NICU Helping Hands has about 180 seamstresses across the country who work to convert donated wedding gowns into custom baby dresses for families that have suffered the loss of their infants in the NICU. You can donate your dress to the program for free or donate a small monetary amount, and the organization will ship it to the family. Another nonprofit that accepts donations of wedding gowns is Adorned in Grace, a Portland-based charity that raises money to support sex trafficking survivors and provides them with clothing. Their website has details on how to donate, including a list of items accepted as well as the vetting process. Bridal Garden – This nonprofit Manhattan bridal shop accepts all types of wedding dresses and accessories that are less than five years old, and their proceeds go toward disadvantaged youths in the city. The company also hosts a monthly giveaway where they award one woman with a gown and two pairs of earrings. Salvation Army – This is the biggest national nonprofit that accepts donations of used clothes, but each location has its own specific donation policy. You can find a local Salvation Army and schedule a pick-up, or you can mail your donations in. COVID-19 update: Some charities are imposing restrictions, so check with your local charity for more information on what they require before donating. Some will not accept any dress over four years old, or they may ask that your donation be professionally cleaned and packaged before it reaches them. Fairytale Brides – This group helps couples who have suffered an illness or health crisis plan for a wedding or vow renewal in the event that their original plans aren’t possible. Their website explains how they “provide hope and joy by connecting people with the wedding of their dreams,” as well as giving them access to the latest in fashion trends, wedding planning advice and other resources. Cherie Sustainable Bridal – This company supports the Success in Style nonprofit that helps people in need in Baltimore and Washington D.C., get back on their feet by providing them with the tools to get hired and succeed. Their website describes their collection as “a slew of gently used dresses, shoes and accessories that are in great condition.” Wish Upon A Wedding Gown – This nonprofit provides brides who have experienced a health crisis with a gown to wear for the ceremony. The site also offers tips for preparing for the wedding, as well as a registry where people can register for a dress and donate a small amount to cover the costs.

When someone we love passes away, we often struggle to make sense of it – and this is especially true for children. They may have never been to a funeral before, or they may be very young and still developing their understanding of the world. It is natural to want to protect them, but the best thing you can do is give them a choice and allow them to be involved in what happens during the service. Prepare the child for what is to come by talking with them in a normal way and explaining what will happen at the funeral. This can be difficult for adults to do, but it can also be a very important way of helping the child to cope with this. Talk about the funeral in language they understand and remind them that it is OK to ask questions. They will feel a lot more comfortable with this and be less likely to feel overwhelmed if they know they can ask for help if they need it. Explain what will happen at the funeral, what they can expect and why it is happening. This might include details such as where the service will be held, how long it will take and who will be there. They will also need to know that burial or cremation doesn’t hurt the person who has died, as they are no longer able to feel pain. Get them involved where possible – this could be writing a poem or drawing a picture, reading a prayer or choosing the music for the funeral. This can help them to process their grief and to connect with their loved one. Have a trusted adult sit with the child at the funeral – this can be anyone who knows the child, like a teacher, a close friend or a babysitter. This will let the child know that they are safe and that they are in good hands. Encourage them to leave the service early if they need a break – if they are getting a bit restless or fidgety it can be helpful to get them outside for a while, if they feel safe. It can also be useful to bring a favourite toy or quiet game, or even a book for them to read in the lobby. Visit the cemetery or crematorium beforehand – this will help them to know what to expect and they can see where the funeral is taking place. It is also a chance for them to say goodbye and mark the occasion of their loved one’s death. If they want to go to the graveside, encourage them to leave flowers or mementos on their loved one’s grave. This can be very emotional for them and can help them to deal with their grief more easily. Plan an alternative ceremony if they do not wish to attend the funeral – it is OK for them to choose another way to remember their loved one and say goodbye, such as planting a tree or placing a garden ornament in their memory.