Month: June 2023

When a child dies, parents often have to make arrangements for a funeral or memorial service for that young person. Depending on your beliefs and the wishes of the deceased, these services can range from a full-blown funeral to just a small service at the graveside. Children will have to see the body during either the visitation period or the funeral, so it’s important to prepare them in advance. This is also a good time to discuss your religious beliefs with them. You may have to remind them that people grieve differently and it’s okay for everyone to cry. You should also tell them that if they are not comfortable seeing their sibling in the casket or if they feel like they want to leave during the funeral, it’s okay to do so. You can also give them a specific adult they can go to for help if they need it during the services. Unlike adults, who typically wear their emotions on their sleeve, kids tend to show their emotions in small doses. This is normal and will allow them to process the death at their own level. If they start to feel overwhelmed, it’s a good idea to activate your pre-arranged plan and have someone remove them from the situation until they are ready to return. It’s a good idea to have your child attend the funeral services with a buddy, or you can designate another trusted adult to be in charge of helping them during the service. This way, if they begin to feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable, they will have an adult they can talk to who will be able to help them navigate through the service. The decor at a child funeral is usually much different from that of an adult funeral. For example, many parents choose to celebrate the life of their child by decorating with their favorite teddy bears and balloons instead of flowers. This decor also allows your child to see their loved ones who came to the service celebrating their life as well. A funeral or memorial service is a time for family and friends to come together to remember the deceased. This is a great time for you to talk to your children about their sibling and share memories you have with them. You can even consider allowing your child to participate in the ceremony in some way, such as reading a poem or saying goodbye in a special way. Your child will likely have a lot of questions during this time. Be honest and straightforward with them and try to answer their questions as best you can. This is a difficult and sensitive time for all of you so it’s best to avoid giving them false information. Also, if they are exhibiting regressive behavior or a change in their attitude, it is important to seek professional help for them as soon as possible. Children who have a mental illness can have relapses after their loss and it’s vital to address those issues right away.

Whether you’re building your registry, staring down a mountain of baby shower gifts or just wanting to make sure you have a few infant-wear essentials ready, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of tiny clothes on offer. But like buying clothes for adults, it’s best to focus on a few key staples that you know will go with other items in your bub’s wardrobe. From soft-as-silk bodysuits to breathable cotton pyjamas, there are a few essential pieces every new parent needs. Ideally, you want clothing that is simple and easy to wear. Aside from being comfortable and a good fit, you’ll also want to think about material, as newborns tend to get irritated easily by certain fabrics. Look for organic materials, such as cotton and terry, which are unlikely to irritate your newborn’s sensitive skin. If your little one has a lot of hair (and we’re talking oodles here), look for fabrics that are hair-resistant as well, such as fleece and polar fleece. The all-purpose bodysuit (otherwise known as a ‘onesie’) will be the backbone of your newborn’s wardrobe. They’re usually made from a soft fabric that’s low-irritant, and they have a flap at the crotch that unsnaps for quick diaper changes. Look for a few of these in both solid colours and prints to mix and match, and opt for those with envelope-style necklines. These handy features are great after a massive diaper blowout, as they allow you to slip the onesie off over their shoulders instead of having to pull it up over their head. You’ll be changing your baby a lot throughout the day, so you want clothing that makes this as easy on you as possible. Opt for a few basic singlets and sleepers in different colours to mix and match, but also look for ones with built-in knee pads to help with your wriggly baby’s transition from crawling to walking. As for PJs, you’ll want to go for something that’s 100% organic cotton (or at least Standard 100 Oeko-Tex certified) to ensure your baby’s skin is as gentle as possible. Plus, many of these pyjamas will have been designed with a native Australian flora and fauna print in collaboration with the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. Which means you can feel extra good about purchasing them – $1 from each purchase will go toward protecting native species, both now and into the future. Another brand that offers a more unique range of clothing is Huxbaby, which comes in bright colours and cool designs you won’t find anywhere else. Their range includes striped rompers and a cherry frill zip romper that are perfect for your little one. They’re also made from certified organic cotton and eco-friendly terry fabric, making them the best choice for your baby’s sensitive skin.

When planning a funeral, many families choose to provide clothing for their loved one to wear in their casket. This is called a “burial outfit,” and it allows family members to help dress the body in clothes that truly represent their personality and lifestyle. This may be especially important if a funeral includes an open casket, as the outfit can provide comfort to friends and family who are viewing the body. Some religions have specific rules about what a person is dressed in when they are buried or cremated. It is best to check with the religious leaders before deciding on an outfit for your loved one. There are a variety of clothing options to consider for burial, including suits and dresses, as well as casual clothes. Choosing the right outfit for your loved one can be very emotional, but it is often helpful to think about how they would like to be remembered. For example, if your grandmother was a dedicated baker, you might want her to be dressed in her favorite apron and hat for her final service. A shroud is a large piece of cloth that can be draped over a deceased individual to provide an attractive and respectful appearance for mourners. It can be made of any fabric, and it is usually decorated with leaves, flowers, or embroidery. Some people choose to make their own shrouds, but purchasing a pre-made shroud is an alternative. You can find shrouds on the Internet or at a local funeral supply store. For those who prefer a green burial, natural shrouds are available that are made of calico or bamboo. They are a suitable choice for woodland burials and can be used with a traditional or cremation coffin. Some funeral directors are skilled in dressing a body to look as natural as possible. They will often manipulate the garments to create a good look, and they can also put clothing on a corpse for viewing or transport. Many people choose to dress their loved ones in their own personal style for their funeral, whether that means a suit and tie or a simple dress. Others choose to dress the body according to their occupation, affiliations, hobbies, or interests. A sports team uniform, for example, can be an appropriate outfit for a loved one who was an avid fan of the game. When someone passes away, the burial outfit is likely to decompose along with the body, so it is important to keep this in mind when deciding on an outfit. The deterioration is influenced by the material, with natural fibers breaking down more quickly than synthetic fabrics. While you are choosing an outfit for your loved one, remember to include some undergarments. Most funeral homes will keep a supply of undergarments on hand to use with a customer’s outfit, but it is a good idea to bring your own as well.

A wedding dress is one of the most treasured pieces of clothing a woman will ever wear, and it is often a sentimental souvenir from the biggest day in her life. However, what do you do with it once the celebration is over? You can keep it in your closet as a keepsake, banish it to the attic with the mice, or give it away. Many charities and secondhand stores have special programs where you can donate your wedding gown to a worthy cause. The following are some charities and shops that accept wedding dresses as donations, giving your dress a second life and helping a variety of environmental and social causes. Angel Gowns This nonprofit organization uses donated wedding gowns to make baby burial outfits for families who have lost their infants due to complications in the NICU. The volunteer seamstresses repurpose the bridal gowns and make them into beautiful burial garments for the tiny babies. This is an extremely touching way to repurpose your wedding dress and help others in the most difficult of circumstances. Brides Do Good This ethical bridal boutique offers new designer wedding dresses and repurposed bridal gowns that support various projects working to end child marriage, promote female empowerment, and provide education to the world’s most vulnerable young girls. The company partners with brides and brands to curate a unique collection of bridal gowns, and the profits go to chosen charity projects. The Wedding Wishing Well Foundation This Devon-based charity uses wedding gowns to support the family and friends of patients with a terminal illness or life-limiting condition. They can either gift a donated dress to the patient or sell the gown to raise money for the hospice. Gift of a Wedding This charity helps terminally-ill couples celebrate their wedding day with their loved ones by supplying them with a custom-made bridal gown that is paid for by donors. The donation can also include bridesmaid dresses, veils, and tiaras, but the donor must provide all of those items in order to receive a tax deduction. If you want to claim your donation on your taxes, it is important that you contact the charity or thrift shop ahead of time and ask if they have any COVID-19 restrictions in place. You should also have your dress professionally dry cleaned before you drop it off or ship it in, as most places prefer to not deal with the hassle of dealing with a stain on such a fragile and expensive piece of clothing. Some charities also accept other wedding-related items such as flowers and shoes, so be sure to check with them before donating any other accessories to make sure they can take your dress. And don’t forget to keep all receipts and other purchasing documentation in case you decide to claim your donation on your taxes. Good luck, and happy donating!

Across the country, volunteers are sewing beautiful angel gowns for babies who die before leaving the hospital. Each dress turns into several little outfits — including baptismal and burial dresses — for families who are heartbroken by the loss of their child. The effort is part of a larger initiative called NICU Helping Hands, which offers support to families whose babies are sick or premature. The organization is the brainchild of Heather and Demitri Wilson, a couple from Maryland who lost their son, Kennedy, because of a placenta abruption. The Wilsons are one of many people involved in the project who say the gowns they sew are more than just garments. They are a way to have difficult conversations about race, infertility, stillbirths and maternal deaths. Patty Hauer knows all about the heartbreak of infant loss. As a labor and delivery nurse for 46 years, she saw many newborns who never made it to the outside world. Then, when her grandson died from a rare disease shortly after birth, she realized that the tiny outfits they were wrapped in had been donated by hospitals and coroner investigators. She knew then she wanted to do something to give grieving parents a gown for their baby. So in January, the 71-year-old member of All Saints Lutheran Church in Darwin, Minn., began sewing small outfits in her basement. Now, she has recruited a network of seamstresses who meet monthly in her home and elsewhere to transform donated wedding dresses into a final outfit for infants who die during or soon after birth. The gowns — which come with a knitted hat and blanket, a keepsake charm and a heart or cross — are given free of charge to families who need them. The group recently began a partnership with the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office in Ramsey to extend its reach. Hauer says she never imagined the impact her work could have, but the requests for outfits keep coming. “They’re so incredibly precious to the families who receive them,” she said. Each gown is sewed by volunteers who donate their own used wedding dresses or buy them from thrift stores. A single dress can make about 30 little outfits, and each package goes out to the hospitals with a gold-painted angel, a message and a keepsake to honor their baby. The dresses also get a blessing from a priest before being sent out to families in Maryland and beyond. KHOU spoke with several women who have volunteered their time to help others in their darkest moments. Each woman said the experience has helped her process her own losses. Pregnancy and infant loss is a taboo subject in many communities, but organizations like these are working to change that. They are helping families in their darkest days and shining a light on the issue.

When a child dies, the loss is deeply painful for family members of all ages. Many children will attend a funeral service to pay their respects and to help support the bereaved parents. Often, families ask about ways to honor the life of their child. It is important to prepare children for what they may experience at the service and to give them choices that allow them to participate in a way that is meaningful to them. For younger children, a private viewing may be appropriate. If this is the case, it’s important to explain what they will see and to reassure them that their sibling does not feel cold or pain. Using pictures to demonstrate this is helpful, as are casual and matter-of-fact conversations. Providing clear and honest information, encouraging questions and repeatedly reaffirming that their sibling is not in pain or afraid will help them to make an informed decision. Some families decide to wait until their older children are at least seven years old or older before allowing them to view their sibling’s casket. The choice of whether or not to include a funeral ceremony is entirely up to the family, but it is recommended that all children, no matter what age, are present for their loved one’s memorial service. During the service, the child may cry or not cry; however, it is important to provide extra attention and affection so that they do not feel neglected or abandoned. If the child feels overwhelmed, a trusted adult should be available to help them leave the service at any time. Providing children with the opportunity to express their feelings is healthy and allows them to find their own way to cope with the loss. For this reason, some families choose to offer their children the opportunity to speak during a funeral or memorial service. This can be anything from a personal anecdote to a reading of a poem or song that reflects the child’s personality and interests. The decision to involve children in this way is always a personal one and should be made with the support of a grief counselor, if necessary. It is also common for families to incorporate a personal touch at the funeral or memorial service, which celebrates the unique qualities of their child. Families are often encouraged to bring decorations that reflect the life of their child, such as flowers, teddy bears or special stuffed animals. They may also wish to add a tree seedling, candle or other symbolic item to the proceedings. It is also a great time to ask significant people in the child’s life to share their reflections and memories or read a letter or poem on their behalf. Some families also have a room set up at the venue for kids to play games, color and write. Guests are also often asked to sign an order of service booklet that lists what’s happening during the service and includes photographs.

It’s impossible to resist all the adorable baby clothes in stores and online — but beware of buying too many that can cause rashes or other skin irritation. The best clothing for newborns is made from cotton and other natural materials that are gentle on the skin and help regulate body temperature. Avoid polyester and nylon, as they can be scratchy. If you can, choose organic cotton or cotton grown with non-toxic pesticides. Finally, make sure that any decorations on the clothes (such as bows) are firmly attached and won’t pose a choking hazard. Whether it’s a onesie, a pair of pants or footed sleepers, all newborns need warm clothing to keep them cozy. Look for a soft fabric that’s also breathable, as babies can overheat easily. A few pairs of socks are a must, too. Choose socks that fit small feet and have hook and loop fasteners, since those tiny socks can be hard to keep track of (god forbid you leave the house with a sockless baby). A great option is leggings from a brand like Babi, which are super stretchy and come in a range of colors and patterns that go with just about anything. They’re also easy to get on and off, which makes diaper changes much easier (and way cuter). For a warmer option, go for a pair of footed onesies from SoftBaby or Izzie and Owie. They’re not only incredibly cute, but they’ll be comfy enough to wear until your little one is at least two years old. If your little one has a big head, consider getting her or him a couple of warm, fuzzy hats that are super soft and cozy. Look for bright felt hats, or, if your mom is a knitter, some lovely soft baby wool. And don’t forget a pair of booties if you’re planning on leaving the house in cold weather — and don’t forget a matching bib to make for a complete outfit. The best part about this category of clothing is that it can be surprisingly affordable. Several mom-and-pop shops sell organic and eco-friendly newborn clothes, including Burt’s Bees Baby, Monica and Andy, Garanimals, Spearmint Love and Finn & Emma. Alternatively, check out TheRealReal for a treasure trove of mostly-used-once pieces that will fit newborns perfectly. Another great place to shop for clothes for the littlest members of your family is Baby Gap. They carry a variety of different sizes and styles, and most items are under $20. If you’re looking for something more unique, try Brooklyn-based Winter Water Factory. This husband-and-wife company offers screen-printed textiles with bold designs that will definitely garner your new baby some serious Instagram attention. And their garments are all made from GOTS-certified organic cotton that’s soft and gentle on the skin. They’re also free of chemicals and dyes that could irritate sensitive newborn skin. Plus, their pants and shorts have a wide waistband that makes them easier to pull up for diaper changes.

When shopping for a new baby or putting together a registry, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the little clothes that are out there. Luckily, there are a few simple guidelines to follow when stocking up on newborn essentials. First and foremost, keep in mind that newborns grow fast. You want to register for clothes that will fit within the first six months (or sooner). You’ll also find that babies don’t wear as many outfits as you might think, especially if you plan to primarily diaper and swaddle your little one. And don’t forget that hats are a newborn must-have for keeping those little heads warm, regardless of whether they’re outdoors or in the house. For daytime, a few long-sleeved onesies will go a long way. These bodysuits snap at the crotch, making them perfect for quick diaper changes—plus they’ll help prevent those precious cheeks from getting cold. Look for onesies made from organic cotton or bamboo terry fabric; these are typically soft and low-maintenance, and won’t pill when washed. At night, a few footie pajamas or sleep sacks will be handy. Babies spit up a lot, and you’ll be changing them several times in a single night, so it’s smart to stock up on cozy pjs for their delicate skin. Look for PJs that are GOTS certified organic, which means they’re free from harmful chemicals. Hanna Andersson is a favorite for Scandi-inspired prints and ultra-comfy clothing that’ll make parents smile. The brand also offers partnerships with beloved characters and franchises that can be enjoyed for years to come. The company’s sizing is accurate, too. If you’re looking for a little more luxury, check out the cute rompers and sweater sets at Gap. The quality is great and their prices are very reasonable compared to designer brands. The shirts have cute necklines and buttons and the pants are super soft—plus, they’re easy to put on and take off when you’re trying to dress a fussy baby. Another option is a swaddle and play set from Finn and Emma, which are made from organic cotton and are both GOTS and Fair Trade Certified. These are soft, light, and breathable, plus they have a unique pattern that makes them stand out among other similar pieces. Finally, if you’re shopping for a baby boy, consider registering for Boden’s colorful clothing. The company has a wide range of themes, from big animals to dinosaurs and sharks. It’s a fun alternative to the more muted colors and cartoony designs that are commonplace at most stores.

When someone dies, families often dress their loved one in an outfit they would have worn on a special occasion in their lifetime. Garments like a bride’s gown, a graduation suit, a first day of work vintage suit or even a pair of leather motorcycle boots could play an important role in helping people remember the deceased with fondness and dignity. While traditional suit or dress clothing is a popular choice for funerals, some families prefer to be more personal with their selection and are now choosing casual t-shirts, work or sports uniforms, and even wedding dresses. The funeral director should be able to assist with the decision of what clothes will be suitable for your loved one’s farewell. If you are having a green funeral in woodland burial grounds, funeral gowns made from natural fibres such as calico are available. These are also appropriate for a cremation ceremony and are designed to be straightforward for funeral directors to dress the body in – they can look like smart night gowns, pyjamas or dressing gowns and can be tailored specifically for men and women or as unisex designs. They may be adorned with false shirt fronts and other embellishments to resemble day wear or evening clothes, and are suitable for both closed casket and open coffin funerals. A cloth shroud is traditionally worn for burials in some cultures, but the funeral industry has embraced more modern styles such as the ‘funeral gown’ which is available in both male and female sizes. They are typically a dress shape, have long sleeves and high necklines and are usually made of soft and easily adjustable fabrics. They can be adorned with religious motifs for Catholic burials, and are available with an optional hand-tied headdress or cape. They are especially useful if the deceased has gained or lost weight in death and their clothes are no longer fitting, or if they have no family outfits left. Many funeral homes will allow the wearing of jewellery at a viewing or wake, but it is advisable to remove this before the funeral itself as non-combustible items are not allowed to be inserted into the cremation chamber. In some cases, the funeral director will be able to hold onto jewellery for you until after the cremation and can return it on your behalf. It is not unusual for a person to be dressed in the clothes they were wearing at their time of death, although this can cause issues if bodily fluids or environmental factors have soiled the outfit. For this reason, most funeral homes will ask relatives to provide their loved ones with new clothing to be buried in.

When the wedding day is over, many brides don’t know what to do with their gown. Some preserve it in a box, but others decide to give it a second life as a charitable donation. Whether you’re looking to clear out closet space or make a difference in someone’s life, here are the best places to donate your wedding dress. Charity shops are a great place to find a used wedding dress and veil, but it’s important to check if the charity is currently accepting dresses before dropping them off. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, some charities may be limiting their dress donations or requiring them to be professionally cleaned. You should always call the charity in advance to ask about their specific guidelines and requirements. St Richard’s Hospice runs a preloved bridal boutique that raises funds to help patients and families across Worcestershire. The organisation’s website says that the shop only accepts dresses in good condition. They ask that the dresses are cleaned, with the label still attached if possible. They also require that the gowns aren’t ripped or stained. Another charity that takes on donated dresses is Dresses for a Cure. This charity provides a platform for brides to sell their wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses to raise money for breast cancer research. They also have a database of brides in need, who can request a gown for their special day. A few other charities that take on wedding dress donations are Brides Do Good, Adorned in Grace, and Gift of a Wedding. Brides Do Good is an ethical bridal boutique that sells new designer and donated wedding dresses, with a third of profits being given to chosen charity projects that work to end child marriage around the world. Gift of a Wedding repurposes donated wedding gowns into infant burial gowns, bonnets, and other keepsakes for grieving families who have lost their newborn. The organisation works with local funeral homes to make these gowns available for free to bereaved mothers. You can donate your gown to Gift of a Wedding by filling out their online form. Another great option is the Salvation Army, which accepts wedding gowns, shoes, and accessories. Each local branch has its own policies, so it’s best to contact your nearest one in advance to see what their guidelines are. The charity also suggests having the gown dry-cleaned, which will make it easier for charity volunteers to inspect it. If your dress doesn’t fit the criteria of any of these organisations, it can be repurposed into other items to be kept as a memento or gifted to family members and friends. The fabric can be repurposed for home decor, or it can be embroidered or patterned to create new formalwear, such as cocktail dresses and baptism gowns for children. Alternatively, the buttons and beads can be used to make DIY jewelry or other keepsakes. Using a dress to support a cause that is close to your heart can be incredibly rewarding, so don’t let it sit in your closet forever!