Month: July 2023

The last visual image of a deceased loved one is a powerful moment, and it’s important to present them in an outfit that honors their character. A good rule of thumb is to dress a person in what they would have worn themselves, but recent funeral trends are trending away from tradition. Many people choose casual t-shirts, sports jerseys or work or military uniforms. Others may choose lounging pajamas and slippers or a negligee, or even wedding dresses. A funeral director can help a family find the right clothes to bring their loved one to their final rest. Traditionally, men wear suits and women wear dresses for viewings and open casket funerals, but today, people often want to express their personality in what they choose. If your loved one wanted to be buried with specific clothing, it’s a good idea to ask their doctor for advice before you make any purchases. If they’ve recently undergone a serious surgery or accident, you’ll want to consider whether the neckline will be too low or their arms will show scars after the body has been autopsied and embalmed. You can also ask a close friend or family member to assist with the shopping process. Many people are happy to do this, and it gives them a meaningful task that will help them process the loss of their loved one. They can text you photos of choices and ask your input, or you can take them to a local store that carries clothes for burial or cremation. Many funeral homes have a selection of burial clothes that can be purchased or borrowed. This can be convenient if your loved one lost weight or their favorite clothes don’t fit anymore. Rigor mortis can stiffen the body and make it difficult to move the clothes, so funeral directors are willing to cut the back of an outfit so that it’s easier to dress the body. If your loved one wants to be buried with personal items or jewelry, your funeral home can advise you about this. They will likely ask that anything of value be left to the side, and it can then be given to the family after the service. If your loved one is being cremated, the jewelry will need to be removed, and it will probably be donated to charity or given to someone else to wear. If your loved one has been buried in a natural or green cemetery, they will need to be dressed in clothes made of biodegradable materials. This can be an issue if you were planning to use clothes that your loved one already owns, but it’s possible to rent or buy burial clothes specifically for green and natural funerals. These clothes are usually made from untreated, natural fibers and do not have any synthetic linings, plastic threads or metal zippers. In some cases, the clothing must be hand washed and air dried before it’s ready for burial.

If you’ve recently divorced or just have an extra dress taking up space in your closet, don’t just toss it — donate it. Several organizations are accepting wedding dresses for charity and will give them new life. But you need to be picky when choosing a place to donate your dress. Many of these dress donation charities support a specific cause, so make sure you know what kind of work they do before handing over your gown. For example, NICU Helping Hands Angel Gowns, which provides memorial attire to families of babies who died before birth or shortly thereafter, accepts donations of used wedding and bridesmaid dresses that seamstresses then remake into burial gowns. The organization also creates infant memorial clothing including cloth nappies, baby blankets, and hats. You can find a donation location near you here. Another charity that makes a difference is Gift of a Wedding, which helps terminally ill couples celebrate their last days together with family and friends. Founder Patricia discovered that couples in this difficult situation are in need of more than just financial assistance. That’s why she started the nonprofit to provide brides-to-be with their dream wedding at no cost. Those looking to donate their dresses can get in touch with the organization via its website, where they can fill out an online form that includes the details of their dress. The charity then carefully reviews the information before accepting it for use. In some cases, donors can receive tax deductions for their wedding dresses. This is because donating a wedding dress can be considered a charitable contribution, and tax rules vary by state and locality. But you should consult with your tax professional before claiming a donated wedding dress on your taxes. One thing to remember when donating your gown is that the organizations that take wedding dresses for charity often require that they’re in good condition. Check for tears or other damage and make sure that the gown has been dry cleaned before sending it off to its new home. Some of these charities will sell the dress and bridal accessories at affordable prices to women who can’t afford new wedding dresses. The funds will then be used by the charity to help with a particular cause, such as breast cancer. Several other charity wedding dress donation programs focus on a specific cause, such as helping military wives or people who can’t afford to buy a gown. You can contact these charities to see if they are accepting dresses for their cause, as well as the deadline for doing so. During the COVID-19 pandemic, most Salvation Army thrift stores have been accepting wedding dresses for donation. They will need to be dry cleaned before donating them, and you should call ahead or schedule a pickup appointment on the charity’s website to ensure that they’re still open. This organization has locations in Washington and Oregon, but also operates an online store. Its dress shop sells dresses and bridal accessories under 10 years old, so you should be able to find a home for your gown here.

INDIANAPOLIS – Most brides carefully fold their wedding dresses and save them to hand down to future generations, but for one woman those gowns serve a different purpose. The founder of Sunshine State Angel Gowns, which turns donated wedding dresses into bereavement outfits for babies who lose their lives during pregnancy or at birth, says every dress tells a story and the little ones who wear them receive dignity. Sadly, many women experience infant loss including miscarriage and stillbirth. It’s a taboo subject that many aren’t even aware of, but the mother who lost her daughter at just 17 weeks tells WBTV she knows firsthand how important these dresses are to grieving families. Heather Kennedy, who started Kennedy’s Angel Gowns after losing her daughter to placenta abruption, is helping to raise awareness about the work of this group. She says these gowns are more than just garments, they help to lift the stigma surrounding pregnancy and infant loss and open up conversations about it with friends, family and strangers. “It’s a difficult conversation to have with people, but I think talking about it helps you heal, it helps you deal with it,” she told the station. The dresses are meticulously crafted from donated gowns, and Kennedy’s Angel Gowns sends them to hospitals across the country. According to their website, the organization has sent over 30,000 of these little garments to parents who’ve experienced loss. The group is currently working on expanding to other states, and it is hoping to partner with NICUs to make sure these gowns are available. A recently retired labor and delivery nurse, Tess Soholt, stumbled upon a dress at a thrift store in Golden Valley and decided to buy it. It was then that she knew her dress would serve a much bigger purpose. Her new chapter in retirement includes making gowns for babies who don’t make it past the hospital. She calls it a full circle. “It’s almost like a blessing in disguise to be able to bring this baby into the world with love from his or her family, and to wrap that baby in a gown that someone has already loved,” she said. Soholt has made about 20 of these gowns, and keeps a plastic baby model by her sewing machine to remind herself why she does what she does. She’s hoping to expand her reach beyond Brevard County, and she’s grateful for the support of other likeminded women who help out. She needs more material, ribbons, gallon zip-lock bags and gowns to keep up with the demand. Those who want to help can donate a dress, or give financial donations to assist with supplies. The money goes towards the memory boxes that are given to grieving families along with their gowns. They’re delivered directly into the hands and hearts of a parent who’s suffered loss. It’s a gesture that can help ease their grief and give them hope for the future.

The funeral is a sacred time for all of us. But for children, it can be especially difficult and confusing. While the decision to attend or not is ultimately your child’s, they will benefit from clear and honest information about what to expect. Whether you are having a viewing, open casket, or cremation service, it is important to discuss with your children what will happen at the visitation, ceremony, and post-ceremony activities. This will give your child a chance to express their feelings, questions and concerns before the day of the event. It is also helpful to explain the logistics of the event, such as who will be attending and what they may be asked to do, including being quiet and sitting still for long stretches of time. If your children are old enough, consider asking them to participate in the service in some way (read a poem, sing a song, or deliver a speech) so they can feel like their feelings matter. Shyer children can still participate by lighting a candle or leaving a memento in the casket. If your child wants to view their sibling’s body, offer to show them at a private viewing before the funeral. This allows them to see what others are seeing and makes the experience less daunting. Be prepared to answer their questions and reassure them that their sibling’s body will be cool to the touch, does not feel cold or pain, and can only be seen from the front. If they decide not to view their sibling, it is their choice, but they will miss out on the opportunity to see their family members grieve together and share special memories. If your children are young and will be attending the service with you, consider asking a trusted friend or relative to take them out for a short time if they begin to get restless. This will allow you to concentrate on the proceedings without putting added emotional strain on yourself or your other children. It is also helpful for younger children to have a favorite toy or cuddle partner to comfort them, and having a small snack on hand can help ease their hunger. For infants or very young children, a live stream or recording of the funeral can be a good option to allow them to see and hear their sibling’s name being said as well as to interact with those present in their own way. This can be a meaningful way for them to say goodbye and will give them a chance to process their feelings at home.

Whether you’re shopping for a baby shower gift or simply want to add a few essentials to your newborn’s wardrobe, there are lots of options out there. From sustainable brands to high-end designer pieces, the style and budget possibilities are endless. But while it may be tempting to go big, the best thing you can do for your little bundle of joy is choose natural and organic clothing. Babies’ skin is up to five times thinner than ours, which makes it more susceptible to irritation and rashes from synthetic fabrics. That’s why it’s important to stick with natural materials like cotton, silk, and bamboo rayon. Organic fabrics are made without harmful fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides — chemicals that are also used in the production of conventional cotton. These toxic substances absorb into the fibres and can be absorbed by your baby’s delicate skin, potentially leading to irritation, rashes, and even more serious health issues. Another factor to keep in mind is that infants’ clothes need to be durable and breathable. They’ll likely be worn and washed several times per day, so they should be able to stand up to the test of time. Organic cotton and bamboo fabric are incredibly strong and sturdy, so they’ll last through lots of washings while remaining soft and comfortable. They also breathe better than conventional cotton, which can suffocate your baby and make them feel sweaty and uncomfortable. Finally, you’ll also want to look for clothing that fits well. A common mistake that new parents make is buying a size too small, especially with onesies and footie pajamas. Babies grow so fast that they can outgrow their clothes within a few months, so it’s important to go by length or weight recommendations. For daytime, you’ll need plenty of onesie sets and a few footed sleepers for napping and lounging around the house. It’s also a good idea to have a few sets of long-sleeved onesies in case the weather turns cold. And don’t forget about cozy slippers to protect those tiny toes from drafts. As for sleepwear, this super-soft organic cotton baby sleeper gown is a definite must. It’s designed to be as functional as possible with fold-over flats that convert it into a footed sleeper and cuffs on the hands to prevent scratching (it’s also tagless). Plus, the design is so adorable, with phases of the moon printed in neutral navy and beige tones. If you’re unsure what to get your little one, a set of classic cotton leggings from parent-favorite brand Primary is sure to be a hit. This five-pack includes a few pairs in coordinating colours so you can mix and match. Plus, they launder easily, which is a must when you’re changing your little one’s outfit multiple times a day.

The way you dress your loved one for their funeral leaves a final impression. It is an opportunity to honor them, and help others remember them as they were in life. It is for this reason that it is so important to choose an outfit that will make your loved one look beautiful and dignified. A person’s burial clothes should be based on their style and preferences. This includes the type of clothing they normally wore and any accessories that were meaningful to them. For example, if a man has a favorite suit or shirt they like to wear, it would be appropriate for him to be dressed in it for his funeral. If your loved one has left specific instructions on how they want to be buried, you should try to follow their wishes as much as possible. This will make it easier for family members to find the right outfit for your loved one. Traditionally, men are buried in suits and women are buried in funeral gowns. These dresses typically have long sleeves and high necklines. They also are made of easily adjustable fabrics. It is a good idea to check with your religious leaders to see what kind of attire they recommend. Many people decide to dress their loved ones in their favorite outfit for their funeral. This is often a comfortable option, especially for those that wish to have an open casket. It may be something as simple as lounging pajamas and slippers or a negligee. Other people decide to bury their loved ones in special blankets or even in sheets. These are called shrouds. They are typically made of lightweight, soft fabric that covers the body. Some are decorated with embroidery, leaves or flowers. It is a good idea to check with the religious leader to learn what kind of attire they suggest for your loved one. Some religions have strict dress and hairstyle guidelines for their deceased followers. For those who are unable to afford to purchase an outfit for their loved one, there are organizations that will repurpose donated wedding dresses, bridesmaid and flower girl gowns, prom and formal dresses and bridal accessories into infant burial gowns (called “angel gowns”), bonnets and other keepsake items for grieving families. One such organization is Emma and Evan Foundation. This foundation accepts donations of these types of clothing and other items for free and makes them available to grieving families. You can also purchase a shroud for a deceased child, which is a similar but less costly option. These can be purchased from many different online and retail stores. It is important to remember that your loved one’s attire for their funeral will be seen by many other people. It is for this reason that it is a good idea to not wear anything that is controversial or arousing. It is also a good idea to avoid clothes that may make your loved one uncomfortable, which could lead to an unpleasant experience for everyone.

If you’re a bride who has had a wedding, and then later realized that the dress isn’t a style you want to keep forever, or maybe you just don’t have room in your closet, there are several charities that will take it off your hands. Some organizations specialize in vetting the dresses they accept, so it’s worth researching your options. Many of the charities will also offer tips on how to pack and ship your dress safely. During the pandemic, millions of people have been struggling financially, which means that wedding dress donations can really make an impact. Some of these wedding dress donations are even tax-deductible, so you can save some money while making a difference. Plus, according to GreenDrop, donating your clothing instead of throwing it away can help reduce the amount of pollution caused by manufacturing new clothes and textiles. Many thrift stores will take donated wedding dresses, and their proceeds are used to fund job programs, housing, veterans, and more. One of the largest thrift store chains is Goodwill Industries, and you can find a branch near you by visiting their website. They have specific details on what they do and don’t accept, and they walk you through the vetting process to ensure your dress isn’t damaged in transit. Other organizations specialize in repurposing the dresses they accept. For example, Angel Gowns in Oneida, N.Y., transforms donated wedding gowns into beautiful infant burial gowns. These are offered to hospitals, birthing centers, funeral homes, and directly to grieving families free of charge. In addition to these repurposing companies, you may be able to donate your wedding dress to a local boutique or studio that specializes in upcycling. For instance, some of these businesses will create a gorgeous cushion cover or table runner from the fabric of your dress. You can even use the fabric to decorate a wall in your home. Another option is to donate your wedding dress to a school that teaches sewing. This way, aspiring fashion designers can practice their skills and create something special from the pieces of your dress that you don’t need anymore. You can also pass the dress down to your daughter or granddaughter and have them repurpose it for a costume for Halloween or a themed party. Just make sure you have the gown professionally cleaned and boxed before handing it over to your loved ones. If you don’t want to sell your wedding dress, but don’t have a place to store it, there are a few charities that will give it to a bride in need for free. This is especially helpful for brides who have had to cancel their wedding due to the pandemic. The organization is a nonprofit that helps provide dresses to needy brides, and they are always accepting donations of wedding dresses and other bridal accessories.

When a baby dies during pregnancy, birth or shortly after, families need something to wrap their little one in. Across the country, seamstresses are taking discarded wedding dresses and making them into angel gowns for infant burials. The program, which started in 2013, is part of a national network. But a new group in the Akron area is expanding the concept, forming a network of volunteers that will send the gowns to hospitals and funeral homes nationwide. When Edith Soholt found a dress at a garage sale that would be perfect for an angel gown, she knew she had to do something. The retired labor and delivery nurse was well aware of the heartache that accompanies stillbirths and newborns who don’t make it out of the hospital’s NICU. But when she read about a registered nurse in Indiana who was recruiting seamstresses to make the gowns, Soholt knew she had to help. During her 37 years as a nurse, Lori Gulley has cared for many families who experienced the unimaginable loss of a baby. So when she saw a Facebook request for someone to sew the small garments, she volunteered immediately. “I think it gives the family a sense of peace that they have something to dress their child in,” she says. She’s now one of thousands of seamstresses across the country who’ve made angel gowns from donated dresses, helping grieving parents give their babies a little bit of comfort. In the United States alone, 1 in 4 women will experience infant loss through miscarriage or stillbirth. For many families, the moment they lose their baby is also the last time they get to hold them. That’s why so many are appreciative of the gowns that volunteer seamstresses are able to create from used dresses. “I know how much they mean to the families that receive them,” Gulley, who lives in Naples, Fla., tells Fox News. “It is a gift that is so very special.” In addition to being a registered not-for-profit organization, Angel Gowns of WNY is a local branch of the national program that started in Texas in 2013. They are hoping to expand their service to hospitals around the country, which will require more seamstresses. But for now, Gulley and the other volunteers work out of her home and a church basement in Darwin, Minn. They turn donated dresses and prom gowns into the final outfit for an infant who died during birth or shortly after, along with a knitted hat and blanket and a keepsake charm with either a cross, a heart or a Bible verse. The kits are given free to families who need them. You can support the effort by donating a dress, money or by spreading the word about this important program. You can find out more about Angel Gowns of WNY by visiting their website. You can also find out more about the national program by checking their Facebook page.