Month: March 2024

Choosing clothing for burial is often a deeply personal choice. Some families choose to use the deceased’s own clothes, and some prefer the traditional options offered by funeral homes. The most important consideration is ensuring that the outfit matches the person’s culture, religious beliefs, and personal style. A well-fitted suit, dress shirt, and tie are classic choices for men. For women, a simple black dress is an elegant option that conveys solemnity and dignity. Burial garments can also be made of natural fibers such as calico, which are suitable for green burials. They are sometimes designed with false shirt fronts and other embellishments to resemble day wear or evening clothing. These garments are particularly common in Europe, where they’re used with cremation. Many of these garments are available for rent from funeral home providers. They can also be bought at retail stores and online. In addition to gowns and wraps, funeral home providers also carry a variety of accessories to help you customize the look, including hats, shoes, and jewelry. Although it is not necessary, some people prefer to dress their loved ones for their casket viewings and wakes. When the deceased is dressed in a personalized attire, it can help family and friends grieve together. Some of these outfits can even serve as a way to honor the deceased’s unique personality and interests. If you are interested in creating a unique outfit for your loved one, it is best to consult with your funeral director for guidance. It is also important to consider the deceased’s cultural background and religious beliefs. For example, some faith traditions have specific guidelines for burial apparel, and some fabrics are not appropriate for embalming. In order to fill the need for burial garments, a local sewing group has been formed. The group has been able to grow quickly because of the generosity of local residents who donate wedding dresses for the project. A recent donation of clear acrylic from Plaskolite makes it possible to create consistent master patterns that ensure each gown is a perfect fit. The group has also created a pattern for a baby wrap that is specially designed for infants up to two pounds in weight. This is a much-needed garment that will aide in the comfort of these tiny angels, and it will also protect them from the cold. Many of the gowns, wraps, and accessories that are made by the sewing group are available on Etsy. You can also find a variety of patterns for creating burial outfits, from lace toddler christening gowns to crocheted preemie blankets. The pattern for the baby wrap is free, while a burial gown and bonnet can be purchased from Warm Hearts Warm Babies, which offers a variety of embroidered newborn, infant, and preemie baby garments. The company has plans to expand its offerings in the future. It hopes to increase the number of garments in its inventory and offer additional options that will make it easier for families to find what they need.

When your wedding day is over and you’ve returned from your honeymoon, your gown may be hiding in your closet, or perhaps you saved it for your daughter. But if you’re not planning to wear it again, it might be time to donate it. And you’re in luck, because there are many charities that accept wedding dresses for resale. These gowns will then be used to help a range of different causes. According to Zola, there are a variety of reasons why you might want to donate your dress. For example, a lot of gowns end up in landfills, and they can cause harm to the environment. Another reason is that donating your dress could save money and reduce waste because you won’t have to pay for storage or cleaning costs. You can also repurpose your gown into home decor, a keepsake pillow or even a baptism dress for your baby. Just make sure to have your gown professionally cleaned before repurposing it. And if you’re not interested in refashioning your dress, you can still donate it to a charity. Goodwill, for example, accepts wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses to sell at budget-friendly prices. Proceeds from the sales go to help support job programs, housing, veterans and more. The organization is especially accepting of gowns from recent brides who can’t afford to buy their own dresses and are eager to pass them on. Other charities like Brides Across America and Wish Upon a Wedding use donated dresses to gift military and first responder brides with the wedding of their dreams. They’re also happy to take veils, tiaras and accessories. Some of these donations are also used to help terminally ill couples celebrate their weddings or vow renewals. If you’re looking for a place that doesn’t resell the dresses, try Angel Gowns for Angel Babies, a nonprofit that uses bridal gowns to create tiny baby gowns for infants who have died too soon. This organization uses a mix of donated dresses and new, handmade gowns. You can also drop off your dress at a boutique with a heart, the Brides Project. This bridal boutique supports adults and kids that are impacted by cancer and specializes in eco- and budget-friendly gowns. They accept gowns within five years and accessories, and you can book appointments online or by email. The organization does note that due to COVID-19 restrictions, you’ll need to adhere to their guidelines when dropping off your donation. Lastly, you can always donate your dress to a thrift store. These shops often have a selection of wedding dresses for sale and will pass them along to someone who can’t afford a new one. Some of these stores also have other items that you can donate, like furniture and linens. They’ll often provide you with a 501(c)(3) receipt that you can claim when filing your taxes. It’s important to remember that every charity is different and has specific guidelines when it comes to donating a wedding dress. Call or email before you arrive to make sure that you’re following all of the proper instructions.

When a child is born prematurely and doesn’t survive, their parents often take photos of them in hospital gowns. But one selfless bride is turning her own wedding dress into something much more meaningful — gowns for infants who never made it home from the NICU. Edith Schulz, 66, saw an article in a newspaper about a registered nurse at Mayo Clinic named Judi Gibson and her effort to recruit seamstresses to create small burial outfits for babies who didn’t make it out of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). “A lot of people think of a wedding as a beautiful day and a celebration,” says Schulz, a retired labor and delivery nurse from Minnesota. “But, for some families, it’s a sad time.” That’s why she and a team of seamstresses turned her own wedding dress into angel gowns to give to grieving families. The tiny handmade gowns, which look like silk christening dresses for baby dolls, bring dignity to the little lives that never got to go home. The gowns are also a comfort for their parents who are left holding on to a precious memory. The volunteers work with a variety of donated wedding dresses, which are repurposed into tiny outfits that are designed to fit newborns up to 62 pounds. A single wedding dress can yield as many as 10 little gowns, according to the NICU Helping Hands website. While the program accepts gowns from all over the world, its volunteers come mostly from the Minneapolis area. Each repurposed dress is sewn into a gown that resembles a soft christening dress for baby dolls, then donated to NICUs across the country. Those who donate the wedding dresses are asked to provide a $100 monetary donation to cover the cost of sewing and shipping the finished gowns. Women who don’t have a dress to donate can “sponsor” a dress for another woman who does. Almost every year, more than 626,000 babies in the United States are stillborn or die after birth. The gowns, which are stitched together from donated wedding dresses, are meant to honor those children and offer hope to the parents who lose them. Whether you’re attending a special event, taking a walk down the aisle or stepping out to celebrate an achievement, these beautiful gowns will add a touch of celestial beauty to your life. Shop the Jessica Angel formalwear collection to find the perfect dress for your next big moment. From sleek stretch fabrics that flatter to sexy designs with just the right amount of drama, this collection will help you feel like a flawless angel.

The decision to hold a child funeral may be painful, but many parents find comfort in creating a special ceremony that honors their baby. Some families choose to include a religious element while others choose a non-religious celebration. Whether you want to include a naming ceremony, family photos, music, or other mementos, there are countless ways to create a unique and cherished event. It is important to prepare children for what they can expect at a funeral or memorial service, especially if it will be the first time they have been to one. It is a good idea to help them understand that people will be crying, some uncontrollably, and that it’s OK to cry, too. A clear description of the services can also allay any anxieties and worries they might have, like why the casket is covered and what it will look like. Depending on the age of your child and their level of emotional maturity, you might want to consider assigning a trusted friend or family member to be their companion during the visitation, wake, funeral, or burial services. This person can be there to answer their questions, reassure them, and give them extra attention if they need it. They can even offer structure and activities if the child’s attention span begins to waiver. At the funeral, children can often become distracted by what is happening around them or by the presence of adults who are crying. It is a good idea to provide them with a booklet that lists what’s happening during the services so they have a visual to refer to if they become disengaged. You might also want to consider having a lullaby or soothing song played in the background to calm the child or give them something to focus on other than the grief-stricken adults around them. During the burial service, you might want to invite children to scatter flower petals or teddy bears over the grave site. You can have a special photo displayed at the graveside that they can identify and touch as a way to make them feel included. You might also want to include a prayer or poem that your child wrote for their sibling. You might consider inviting a close friend or family member who shares your child’s interests or background to lead the service. This can help them connect to your child’s memory in a personal way that feels meaningful to you and your entire community of loved ones. It is also a good idea to designate someone who can take over communications with the public if you are feeling overwhelmed or exhausted.

Baby clothes aren’t just about looking adorable on your newborn; they’re also about keeping your infant comfortable throughout the day and night. You might need to change their outfit up to three or four times in one day, especially if they spit up, and for this reason it’s best to have plenty of onesies, footie pajamas or sleepers and other comfy clothing items on hand. When shopping for baby clothes, look for the type of fabric and closures that are gentle on your baby’s skin, as these can have a big impact on how easy it is to dress them and undress them when they’re fussy or wiggly. You should also consider a garment’s fiber content, and opt for organic cotton that is grown without harmful chemicals and dyes that could be harsh against their skin. If you’re concerned about your baby’s health, check for GOTS or OEKO-TEX certifications to ensure that the fabrics are hypoallergenic and gentle. Babies can’t regulate their own body temperature, so dressing them in breathable layers is essential to keep them comfortable and happy. You can easily layer a tee and a onesie or long-sleeved bodysuit over leggings or pants to make sure your newborn stays warm, but remember that too many layers can cause overheating. Look for signs your baby is too hot, such as flushed cheeks or a sweaty back. Rompers and 2-in-1 dresses are great options for new babies, as they offer a one-and-done style that makes it easy to dress and undress them. Some of these garments even include fold-over scratch mitts at the sleeves to help prevent very young babies from accidentally scratching themselves. And if you’re heading outside for a walk or to the park, be sure to pack a lightweight polar fleece jacket that will protect your baby from the cold. A good rule of thumb is to have at least seven baby clothes on hand, so that you can rotate out garments as they get worn and dirty. A few extras will be helpful for special occasions like holiday parties and photo shoots, too. Bodysuits are an important part of any baby’s wardrobe. They’re an easy, no-fuss outfit for summer and a simple base layer in winter, and they come in long-sleeve and short-sleeve styles. Some feature snaps on the side for easy diaper changes, while others have a kimono-style front that opens across the chest and is easier on a newborn’s umbilical cord stump. You should also have a few pairs of pants on hand to pull over bodysuits when the weather gets cooler.

When it comes to the funeral process, many people want to make sure that their loved ones are buried or cremated in clothing that truly reflects them. This may include a favorite dress, shirt or pantsuit that evokes fond memories, or a special outfit that is a symbol of their faith or cultural background. This article will cover the basics of burial gowns and discuss some of the reasons that people choose to wear them. Most people who want to be buried or cremated in clothing that they love and feel comfortable in often choose to have a tailor-made garment made for them. The cost of a custom burial gown can be very high, however, and many families have trouble affording the expense. Fortunately, there are several different organizations that offer affordable burial gowns for both men and women. In addition, some people who wish to be buried or cremated in a favorite dress or piece of clothing that they own can do so by donating their clothes to a non-profit organization. This organization will then put the donated clothing to good use, providing a burial gown for someone in need. The type of clothing that people are buried or cremated in will depend on their wishes and the kind of funeral they are having. For example, a person who wants to be buried in their favorite dress or suit can usually do so, while a family that is planning a green burial or natural burial will need to look into more eco-friendly outfit options. For men, classic suits are a traditional choice that exudes elegance and solemnity. A well-fitted, dark-colored suit paired with a formal shirt and polished dress shoes can make for a dignified appearance. Similarly, for women, a classic black dress can convey a sense of sobriety and serenity. Some people who prefer to be buried or cremated in an outfit that reflects their lifestyle and values may choose to wear lounging pajamas or a nightgown. This can be a way for the deceased to feel at home in death, and it is a very personal touch that can help family members and friends find comfort during this difficult time. Many people who want to be buried or cremated are also concerned about their environment. This means that they might prefer to be buried in an organic shroud or other biodegradable material. Burial outfits made from biodegradable fabrics are available for both women and men, and they can be bought or donated to a non-profit organisation that will then provide them to a deceased person or their family. In cases where a baby dies or is stillborn, a family may have little time to look for a burial gown. This is why a few different charities provide handmade clothes for babies weighing one to 11 pounds. These are a great alternative to the disposable bibs that are commonly used for this purpose. Several sewing patterns are available for making these delicate outfits, and the BBC has directions on its website for crocheting a burial gown and lined bonnet.

Many brides dream of having a storybook wedding and wearing a stunning dress. But when the big day is over, a lot of women decide to donate their gowns for a variety of reasons. These include needing extra closet room, wanting to make a difference in the world, getting a tax deduction, and more. If you are considering donating your wedding dress, be sure to read all the requirements and guidelines before you begin the process. Each charity or shop has different requirements. For example, some require that the dress be dry cleaned and in good condition before it’s donated. Others may only accept dresses that are under five years old. In addition, some organizations only accept gowns that are not alterations or custom made. One of the most popular places to donate a wedding dress is to a thrift store. These thrift stores typically sell the dresses for a fraction of their original cost to low-income individuals in the community. Typically, the thrift store will have an online form or phone number to contact for specific donation instructions. The charity will need to know the dress size, designer or brand name, year purchased, and the price paid. In some cases, the charity may offer a receipt for tax purposes. Another popular option is to give your gown to an organization that resells them for a charitable cause. For instance, Adorned in Grace is a nonprofit that sells used bridal dresses to bring awareness and support to survivors of human trafficking. This organization is based in Washington and Oregon and has dress shops that are open to the public. The proceeds from the sale of the dresses help provide mentoring programs, outreach events and more. Some of these organizations have websites or Facebook groups where people can post pictures of their dresses and share information about them. For example, the Shared Dream Dresses Facebook group has over 4,000 members. Women can post pictures of their dresses to the site along with their sizes and other details. Then, anyone who is interested can leave a comment on the picture or contact the woman directly to arrange a meeting. Other nonprofits also resell the wedding gowns they receive to raise funds for their programs. The Cherie Sustainable Bridal store in Maryland stocks dresses that are less than five years old to help brides who can’t afford the dress of their dreams. Some of the proceeds from the sales of these dresses go to Success in Style, a program that helps women prepare for job interviews and find employment. A few charities use the gowns they receive to outfit military and first responder brides for free. These brides can attend Operation Wedding Gown events twice a year to get the dress they need. To donate a wedding dress to this organization, a bride must fill out an online form on the website of the charity and provide a photo of the dress and any veils or jewelry that are being donated.

While many brides carefully fold their wedding dresses and keep them for years, others are repurposing them for a more meaningful purpose. Across the country, volunteers are collecting and stitching wedding dresses into angel gowns for infants who are born still or pass away shortly after birth. The gowns are then distributed to families and hospitals. A local woman, Terry Bauer, decided to start sewing the angel gowns after her retirement from Pickerington Schools. She says the school district cut her home economics teaching position but she wanted to continue using her skills. While scrolling through Facebook one night, she came across a woman who sews the tiny angel outfits. She thought it was a wonderful way to honor the lives of little babies lost before, during or after their time with parents. Since then, she’s crafted more than 1,000 angel gowns for organizations across the country. Currently, she sews for four groups: Columbus Christ Child Society; Touching Little Lives, in Groveport; NICU Helping Hands, in Fort Worth, Texas; and Rest in His Arms, in Chicago. She uses the gowns to honor any infant – from micro-preemies to those delivered full-term. She also makes the outfits for infants whose mothers choose to bury their babies at home. “That’s something so personal that the mother is able to do,” she says. “It gives the baby dignity.” Brandy Spurgeon, a labor and delivery nurse at Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis, has been receiving the dresses for about a year. She says they’re a beautiful and uplifting reminder of her daughter, Karolina, who was born premature and died before leaving the hospital. She says they’re a comfort to other families who experience similar loss. Each year, more than 626,000 babies in the United States are lost due to miscarriage or stillbirth, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. It is believed that about 1 in 4 women will experience an infant loss in their lifetime. The gowns are free to any family who needs them. This article is brought to you by Dignity Health – St. Mary Medical Center Long Beach. Visit the hospital’s website to learn more about its services and to find a provider near you.

A child funeral is a ceremony that honours the life of a baby or young child who has died. It can be a very difficult and emotional event, especially for the parents. There are some things to consider before you plan for a child funeral. If you have other children it may help to involve them in discussions about their sibling’s death and the funeral. This can give them an idea of what to expect and gives them a chance to express their own feelings. It’s important not to over do this though, as talking about a death all the time can have negative effects. Rather, talk about happy memories and fun times that you had together to keep the focus on positivity. It’s also a good idea to explain what will happen at the funeral service and graveside burial to your children. This will help them know what to expect and may ease their anxiety. You should also discuss what to do if they can’t attend. It’s not fair to force a child to go to the funeral when they feel that it will be too upsetting for them. If you are concerned about your child’s ability to cope with a funeral service you should consider asking a friend or family member to help care for them at the services. They can comfort them and take them out of the setting for breaks if needed. The day of a funeral and graveside service can be very upsetting for children, but it’s important to remind them that they will have lots of people there to support them. They will probably be asked to sit quietly and listen for long periods of time, which can be challenging for very young children. To help them manage this you can encourage them to bring their favorite book, doll or tablet and do activities they enjoy. You can also arrange for them to play with a sibling or friend, or to draw pictures or make a card to be buried with their loved one. A viewing can be a very traumatic experience for children, particularly if it’s an open casket. It’s a good idea to prepare your children in advance for what they will see by explaining that their sibling will look like they are sleeping and won’t wake up. You can also reassure them that their sibling will not be in pain and will not feel cold. Many people choose to bury their children in favourite clothes, such as a football shirt or doll dress. It can be a very meaningful way to remember them. Other options include a memorial candle, a personalised stone plaque or a beautiful flower bouquet. Many families also ask friends and family to make donations to a charity that was important to their child. This could be an organization that is searching for a cure for the condition they suffered from or to a community project close to their heart.