Month: September 2023

A lot of brides treasure their wedding dresses for the rest of their lives or even hand them down to the next generation, but some selfless women are donating those dresses for a much more special cause. They are turning them into “angel gowns” that are gifted to families who lose their babies in the hospital. Usually, the tiny babies are just wrapped in hospital blankets, but these gowns offer families something that is more sacred for their last photos and memorial services. A single dress can be made into dozens of angel gowns, and the seamstresses say it’s a very healing process to make the delicate dresses that are then donated to hospitals in NICU units across the country. Mayo nurse Lynn Gaber says the gowns help provide hope and comfort for parents during a very difficult time. “They’re the most beautiful way to hold and wrap their little ones,” she tells KHOU. Gaber started the project after her son was born prematurely in 2014 and she saw how the hospital’s nurses helped her family through their compassion and care. “These little angels were so loved by their parents, and a way for their parents to say goodbye is through these beautiful gowns,” she says. Jean Lee, who is part of the group of volunteer seamstresses that make the gowns, is a labor and delivery nurse who knows how common infant death is. In fact, there’s one baby every minute who doesn’t get to go home with his or her parents due to still birth or miscarriage. Her group, called Angel Gown Sewers, has 44 seamstresses from all over South Jersey who take donated wedding dresses and turn them into gowns for those precious babies who die before leaving the hospital. The gowns are delivered to hospitals and bereavement groups around the area, including Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte. Melissa Tyo and Jessica Clarke-Pounder, who oversee the Comfort Committee at the hospital, say they’ve seen the importance of the gowns in helping to support families during their NICU stay. “We see that this is a very important ministry that’s touching the hearts of many families,” Clarke-Pounder says. “We’re very grateful for the help that we get from the community,” she adds. “It’s so heartwarming to see people come together and be there for each other.” The project is run entirely on donations, with each bride who donates a dress asked to give a $100 monetary donation as well. Women who don’t have a wedding dress to donate can also sponsor a gown for another woman in need. To learn more about the angel gowns, or to donate a dress or money, visit the website.

A child funeral can be a deeply meaningful experience for the entire family. However, a funeral can also be overwhelming for a toddler and may even be too much to bear. For this reason, parents should weigh the pros and cons of a funeral and consider carefully what will be best for their child. Toddlers are often very sensitive and can pick up on the emotions of those around them. This is especially true for those who are grieving. People can weep, yell, collapse, and say things that may be frightening for your child. For this reason, it is important to discuss the funeral and explain what will happen in a way that your child will understand. Ideally, it is best to talk to your child about the funeral and death in general before they ever attend. This will help them be prepared and less likely to act out. However, if you feel like it is too soon or that your toddler does not yet understand the meaning of death, then you should consider skipping the funeral and simply having a private memorial service with them at a later date. For children who want to attend, it is a good idea to talk with them about what will happen at the funeral and memorial service. For example, it is important to explain that people will wear dark clothes and be quiet for long periods of time. It is also helpful to tell them who will be there, including relatives and close friends. You should also let them know that it is OK if they feel uncomfortable or do not want to go and that they can always leave if they need to. It is important to reassure them that they will be loved no matter what decision they make. Once your child has decided to attend, it is a good idea for them to have a “funeral buddy.” This is a trusted adult that can play with or read to them, keep them company, and help explain different activities and rituals. It is also a good idea to take them on a tour of the funeral home and other venues before the services so they feel familiar with the place. Some families choose to have their children publicly participate in the service by reading a poem or letter or leaving something special, such as a picture or stuffed animal, at the coffin. This is a wonderful way to allow your child to express their grief in a safe and supportive environment. If you decide to have a funeral, it is important to have a clear understanding of what the cost will be. It is a good idea to create a budget in advance so you do not get any unexpected bills. It is also a good idea to have a fund set aside for funeral expenses. For more information, check out our help with funeral costs page. You should also consider talking with your child’s pediatrician about the funeral and what to expect.

Newborns grow fast, and they will need a lot of clothes. The best baby clothing is designed to withstand diaper explosions, spit-up, repeated washing, and general wear and tear. Look for soft fabrics, durable materials and a simple design that will make changing your little one a breeze. New babies need a mix of long-sleeved bodysuits, short-sleeved onesies and leggings. Look for organic cotton, bamboo and Modal sourced from beech trees, or other high-quality fabric that will keep your newborn’s skin happy. Choose styles with little details that will add to your baby’s wardrobe, like ruffles or kimono ties. Choose a neutral color palette or cute prints that will coordinate with any gender-neutral nursery decor, whether you prefer a classic look or a bright and fun option. A good layering system will allow you to dress your baby for any weather, from warm and cozy winter to cool and summery spring and fall. Babies can get overheated easily, so light layers are the way to go. Avoid heavy jackets as they can interfere with safety harnesses, and instead opt for a light fleece coat that will keep your baby warm without being too bulky. Choosing the right shoes is also important, as your infant will be crawling and walking around in them. You’ll want to find shoes that are designed for young children, and look for shoes that have padded soles for comfort on wood floors or other hard surfaces. You’ll also need plenty of socks to protect your baby’s itty bitty feet, and opt for options with sturdy elastic tops that will not pull off easily or slip off at all. You’ll want to purchase a few special occasion outfits as well, like a coming home outfit or a outfit for a family photo session. Look for outfits in a range of sizes, so your baby can wear them again when they’re older. In Western countries, babies typically wear a variety of clothes including bodysuits (also called onesies) or babygrows, PJ’s with short or long sleeves and legs, sleeping bags, which enclose the entire body except for the head and arms, swimwear all-in-ones that have attached bottoms and enclosed toes, and rompers, which are similar to jumpers but with detachable pants. In colder climates, they might wear snowsuits that have a hood and foldback mittens. If you’re looking for a stylish, high-quality line of babywear, try Molo. This brand offers stylish activewear, tracksuits, dresses, shirts and tops, trousers, skirts and shorts, knitwear, nightwear and swimwear for girls, boys and unisex. Choose from a wide range of colors and designs that will compliment your baby’s wardrobe, or mix-and-match with other Molo pieces to create unique outfits for your newborn. The Children’s Place also has a great collection of outfits for newborns, including pajamas, mix-and-match essentials, playsuits, rompers and outerwear, all of which will keep your baby cozy and comfy. The Children’s Place offers a range of sizes as well, so you can choose the size that is most appropriate for your baby, and it has many gender-neutral styles to suit any nursery theme or color scheme.

When someone dies, family members often struggle to find clothes for them to be buried in. Many funeral homes stock a range of burial gowns that make it easy for families to dress their loved ones for their final rest. The gowns, which resemble smart night gowns or pyjamas, are designed to be comfortable and to make it easier for the funeral director to dress the body. They are available in a range of fabrics and colours. Some are also designed to feature religious motifs. Depending on the deceased’s preferences, you may want to choose clothing that reflects their style or personality. Some people opt for a black ensemble, which exudes elegance and solemnity. Others choose dresses in pastel hues, which convey a sense of serenity and peace. If you’re concerned about the expense of purchasing new clothes for your loved one, you can ask your funeral home to see if they have a collection of pre-owned items that could be used in the funeral service. If you’re planning a green funeral, consider using materials that are made with organic fibers, or that are grown, dyed, woven and sewn locally. This type of funeral is gaining in popularity, and it can help preserve our natural resources. You can also find outfits that are made with recycled materials, such as clothing donated by a deceased family member or purchased from a thrift store. These clothes are often made from cotton, linen or other fabrics that are woven or knitted using environmentally friendly practices. In addition, there are a variety of eco-friendly shrouds that have been produced by manufacturers and DIYers. These can be made from cloth such as t-shirts, sheets or towels, and are available in a range of sizes. It’s usually fine to place personal effects in the casket with your loved one, whether it’s a book or a wedding ring. You can even buy special urns for this purpose. The most important thing is to choose something that will be respectful and fitting for your loved one. In some cultures and faith traditions, a special garment known as an interlocutor is used to cover the body before it is prepared for burial or cremation. In observant Jewish and Muslim communities, this ritual is usually carried out by an experienced individual who knows the appropriate garments to use, the knots to tie and prayers to say. In the United States, a specialist called a funeral director often performs this role. Choosing the right clothing for your loved one to be buried in is an emotional and delicate task. If you’re unsure about what attire your loved one would prefer, talk to a funeral home staff member who can guide you through the process. They can usually arrange for you to view a selection of clothing in a full or half couch casket and recommend what might suit. They can also advise you on any accessories that may be suitable.

Wedding dresses are often treasured keepsakes from one of the happiest days of your life. But if you’ve had enough of your dress collecting dust in your closet and you want to give it new life, there are plenty of charities that can use it. Plus, it’ll free up some valuable closet space! For instance, there are some surprisingly unexpected places you can donate your wedding gown to. Some of them, like the Angel Gown Organization, are based locally in Albany, New York. These volunteer groups are composed of people who sew beautiful infant burial gowns (also known as Angel Gowns) to support families who have lost their tiny babies too soon. The gowns are offered to hospitals, birthing centers, and funeral homes completely free of charge. Another way to donate your wedding dress is to post it on a Facebook group called Shared Dream Dresses. Stacy Stulgis, who founded the group, says that it’s been an amazing experience for her. Thousands of women have already joined the group, posting pictures of their dresses with size information and other details. Other brides who have gotten engaged can then leave comments to let the donor know if they are interested in the dress. Then it’s up to the donor and bride-to-be to work out details. If you don’t have much time to find a new home for your old dress, you can always sell it in person at a consignment shop. But that route can take up to three months or longer to sell your gown. And you may have to pay commission fees, which can cut into your profits. There are also some e-commerce websites where you can post your dress for sale. But beware of scammers. Make sure you’re using a reputable seller, and check out customer reviews. Alternatively, you can recycle your wedding dress by turning it into something else. There are tons of fun ways to reuse your gown, from making pillows and baptism dresses for kids to transforming it into a cocktail dress. And if you’re not into cutting up your dress, you can always save the fabric and turn it into a gorgeous quilt. If you’re thinking of donating your dress, it’s important to have it dry cleaned before handing it over. Even though most organizations don’t require it, it will make the process easier for everyone involved. Plus, it will make sure there are no major stains that might be difficult to get out. And if you do have a small stain, just be grateful that it’s not a bigger problem and that your dress can still be used by someone else. And don’t forget to label your donation box with useful information, such as the dress’s size and brand or designer name, the year it was purchased, and its original price. It will save the charity volunteers a lot of time and effort in sorting through your donation! And remember, when you give your wedding dress a second life, you’re helping a future bride feel beautiful on her big day.

In the grand tapestry of life, there are moments of incredible joy and heartbreaking sorrow. During the most difficult times, families must find a way to endure. In those instances, there is a beacon of hope that shines brightly. This hope is embodied in the work of a group of dedicated and passionate seamstresses who are sewing bereavement gowns for babies who lose their lives before, during, or immediately after birth. This small gesture, known as an angel gown, is a special keepsake that provides comfort to grieving families. In the United States, 626,000 infants are stillborn or die from miscarriage each year. These precious angels are often the last thing on parents’ minds as they are trying to focus on their surviving children, preparing for a funeral or memorial service, and saying goodbye to a loved one. This is why the work of groups like Angel Gowns of WNY, which is based in West New York City and was started by Missy Ray, is so important. Missy’s organization receives donated wedding dresses, which are then transformed into beautiful, one-of-a-kind angel gowns for infants who don’t get to go home with their parents. The Williamson family is one of many who have experienced the loss of a baby in the NICU. After their son, Eli, passed away at nine months gestation, they wanted to do something in honor of him. That’s when they discovered Hillary’s Cherished Gowns, a volunteer organization in Akron that sews bereavement gowns for infants who do not survive their NICU stay. Earlier this month, the nonprofit’s seamstresses and volunteers delivered their first box of angel gowns to Providence Little Co Of Mary Hospitals in Torrance and San Pedro. Each angel gown kit comes with a special gown, blanket, two hats, and heart and memorial trinkets. They are designed for smaller babies and can be used for the very first and last photos, at memorial services, or when family arrives to say goodbye. The goal is to provide one of these angel gowns to each newborn that will pass through the NICU, and it’s an ongoing effort for Missy Ray. She says that people can help by donating dresses, spreading the word about her organization, or simply donating money to help cover the cost of materials. Next time you see a dress at the local thrift store or garage sale, think twice before putting it back on the rack. Instead, consider donating it to an organization like Angel Gowns of WNY. You may never know how much it will mean to a grieving family. To learn more, visit the organization’s Facebook page.

The death of a child is one of the most painful experiences that parents can endure. While there is no comfort to be found during this time, the grieving process can be eased slightly with proper planning and preparation. Although it may be difficult to talk about with your children, ensuring they understand the entire funeral process is vital. It is important to remember that every child is different and they may feel the need to express their emotions differently. It is important to be honest with them and let them know that it is ok to cry or not cry during the service. It is recommended to give your children a clear roadmap of what will happen during the funeral services, including when and where they will take place. Be sure to include details about the casket (whether it is open or closed) and any notable changes that will be made to their body. It is also helpful to give your children a choice about whether they want to see their sibling’s body and if so, how long they would like to spend at the venue. Many children will find it more comforting to participate in the funeral services than just be a passive observer. This can be as simple as letting them light a candle or share a favorite memory during the ceremony. For those who are too shy to do so, it is a great idea to allow them to write a message for their sibling or to place a memento in the casket or urn. Some families will choose to bury their child immediately while others will prefer to have their cremated remains buried later. This can depend on religious beliefs, personal preferences and if you have any family or friends who will want to attend the funeral service. Once the funeral is over, it is normal for the family to feel both physically and emotionally exhausted. It is also not uncommon to feel a resurgence of grief as if your child had died all over again. It is a good idea to ask for help and support during this difficult time from family, friends and professional grief counselors. If you are not able to afford a funeral for your child, there is a nonprofit organization named Final Farewell that provides emergency funeral funds and guidance to families who have lost a child. They have helped thousands of families across the United States to say their final goodbyes. The charity has a very dedicated team of volunteers who are able to meet the needs of each family that they assist. You can learn more about their work by visiting their website. They also have an app for your smartphone or tablet to download so that you can access the information on-the-go. The website has a number of helpful guides and tools that will be of use to you during this difficult time. You can even request help from the charity via text messaging.

Whether you’re shopping for your own little bundle of joy or a baby shower gift for a loved one, there are plenty of fabulous choices when it comes to the best baby clothes. From the classic onesie to the must-have footed pajamas, it’s hard to go wrong with any of these adorable options! But when it comes to buying baby clothing, there are some factors that should be kept in mind. It’s important to choose clothes that are made of organic cotton or natural materials like linen because babies have thin skin that can easily absorb toxins from synthetic fabrics. Organic cotton is breathable and lets air circulate, so it’s not only good for your child’s skin but also for the environment. Babies should never wear clothing that contains chemicals, pesticides or herbicides because these substances can be harmful to their health and aggravate skin conditions. In addition to being soft and comfortable, organic cotton is long-lasting and durable so it can withstand repeated washings and use. It’s also hypoallergenic, which means it won’t cause any irritation to sensitive skin. Plus, it’s easier to clean and doesn’t pill as quickly as synthetic fabrics. Another great thing about organic cotton is that it’s sustainable. Conventional cotton uses 25% more pesticides and herbicides than any other crop, so avoiding these substances is even more important for the environment. Plus, organic cotton is biodegradable so it won’t leave any footprints on the planet! If you’re looking for a baby clothes brand that is known for its gender-neutral designs and quality, look no further than Carter’s. This is one of the best baby clothing brands for newborns because it offers a wide selection of onesies, bodysuits and graphic tees that are perfect for any little one. Plus, it’s also a fantastic option for gifting because its clothes are stylish and affordable. When it comes to buying baby clothes, keep in mind that infants grow fast. It’s recommended to purchase the size that fits your baby’s current measurements rather than their age. That way, you’ll have enough clothes to get them through the first few months until they start growing out of them. The most popular baby clothes are bodysuits and sleepwear, which include rompers that have open legs and arms and can be worn throughout the day or night. Other must-haves are footed pajamas, which are outfits that have easy snaps from head to toe, and sleeping bags, which enclose the body except for the arms and neck.

Choosing what your loved one will wear at their funeral can be difficult, but it is also important to choose something that will honor them. Often, people will dress in clothing that reflects their personality and lifestyle. It’s also not uncommon to accessorize the outfit with jewelry that was significant in their life, such as their wedding or engagement rings. If they leave instructions on their final wishes, this will make the decision of what to wear easier as well. If they do not leave instructions, loved ones can look for clues to their preferences in their closet or take a look at what they wore regularly. While many funerals are viewed as solemn and somber, some cultures view them as celebrations of life. They encourage colorful clothing and tend to be more informal than traditional services. As a result, they can be more fun than other funerals, and can even feature a procession with motorcycles or classic cars. When selecting a burial outfit, it’s important to consider the culture of your loved one and their religion. For example, Catholics tend to prefer more formal attire, including a suit for men and a dress or blouse for women. This is because the church views such clothing as respectful and in keeping with their value of sanctity. A funeral gown is a type of outfit that’s designed to be easy for the funeral director to dress the body in while it is being prepared. These dresses are typically made of soft, satin-like fabrics and resemble night gowns or pyjamas. They are available in both men’s and women’s sizes and can be tailored to fit a person’s specific size. They can also be customized to include a religious motif, such as the Sacred Heart for a Catholic funeral. Many funeral homes provide a selection of burial clothes to choose from. In addition to the typical dresses and suits, some may also offer a variety of hats, shoes and accessories. In addition, some companies specialize in creating garments for babies and young children. Beverly Duckett, for example, handcrafts tiny angel gowns and other clothing for infants who are stillborn or die at birth. Another option is to purchase a custom-made burial dress or uniform from a designer such as Leon Harris of LH Design. His company offers dresses that can be worn by both men and women, and come in 16 colors for the lace styles and eight for the beaded pearl designs. In addition, they can be trimmed to different necklines such as boat, V or bateau. If you’re not sure what to buy, a simple white ensemble can be a dignified choice. A knee-length dress or midi-length dress paired with a matching skirt or dress pants and closed-toe shoes is appropriate for both men and women. Subtle pastel colors convey a sense of serenity and tranquility. For more information on purchasing burial clothing, or if you have questions about what to wear at a funeral, please contact us. A member of our team would be happy to assist you.

After a couple’s wedding day, their dress can become an item that collects dust in the back of their closet. Rather than putting it on display, a bride could donate the dress to a charity that can give it another life. Many charities and thrift shops accept wedding dresses for resale and even allow donors to receive a tax deduction, though some may impose restrictions on what’s accepted. Donating a wedding dress is not only environmentally responsible, but it also helps people in need. The production of new clothing and textiles produces huge amounts of carbon dioxide and other toxins, according to GreenDrop. When old garments are discarded, they also contribute to the waste problem, clogging landfills and polluting waterways. The best way to help the environment is to reuse old clothing and other household items, instead of throwing them away. One of the biggest charities that accepts wedding gowns for resale is Goodwill. It has locations across the country and sells donated clothes in its thrift stores at a discounted price. The proceeds are used to fund various charitable programs. It is important for women considering donating their wedding dress to check with their local Goodwill store first to see what their policies are. Each location has its own pick-up services and donation guidelines, so it is best to call in advance. Similarly, the Salvation Army accepts wedding gowns and other items for resale. The dresses are sold in its stores at a discounted price, and the proceeds are used to support its various charitable programs. Some of these include breast cancer awareness and detection, helping women overcome addictions, and providing education for families of young children with disabilities. The Emma and Evan Foundation repurposes wedding gowns and other bridal gowns into infant burial gowns, bonnets, and keepsake items for families that have lost an unborn or newborn baby. It accepts wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and other formal wear. The organization will also repurpose flower girl and pageant dresses. While donating to a nonprofit organization is the most common option for a wedding dress, there are also for-profit bridal consignment shops that can take your dress and other bridal accessories. Some of these organizations have online portals that can make the process easier, and they also provide receipts for each sale so that you can claim a tax deduction. When donating your dress to any charity, it’s important to research the organization in advance. Some will have strict guidelines about what is acceptable, such as requiring that the dress be professionally cleaned and in good condition. It is also a good idea to label your box with information about the dress, including its size and original cost, so that it saves charity volunteers time when sorting through donations. This will also prevent mistakes and confusion. Also, if the charity requires a cleaning fee, be sure to factor that into your overall donation amount. During the COVID-19 pandemic, some dresses and accessories can develop mold if they sit too long in storage.