While some brides choose to save their wedding dresses for future daughters, others prefer to donate their gowns so they can be worn again. It’s a great way to give the dress a second life and help those who are less fortunate. Plus, donating your wedding dress to the right organization or platform is a tax-deductible expense.
Before you decide to donate your wedding gown, familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines and requirements of each organization or shop. Some may have specific criteria on the condition of your gown or on how it should be packaged. For example, some places will not accept lace or beaded dresses if they’re damaged or ripped. It’s also a good idea to have your dress professionally cleaned and make any necessary repairs before shipping it off for donation.
Depending on the dress and organization, you can expect to receive between a few hundred dollars or more for your gown. You will usually be asked to provide a receipt for the donation. If you have any questions regarding the process, contact the charity or store directly to learn more. Also, keep records of all correspondence to ensure a smooth transaction and for your own personal records.
There are many organizations that accept donated wedding dresses. Some are local, such as thrift stores or community centers. There are also national and international groups that collect and sell used wedding dresses to raise money for different charitable causes. For example, Michigan-based The Brides Project resells used wedding dresses to fund programs and services for the Cancer Support Community of Greater Ann Arbor, including support groups and counseling services.
Some groups also repurpose used wedding dresses into items like home decor and heirloom keepsakes. They may also resell the gowns to raise money for medical research or to help women who are experiencing domestic violence. For instance, the Facebook group Shared Dream Dresses repurposes used bridal dresses to provide survivors of domestic violence with prom or wedding gowns to wear to their special events.
As with all donations, the final destination for your dress will depend on your personal preferences and the goals of the organization. Some will offer pickup or drop-off options while others will only accept dresses shipped to their physical location. Lastly, some charities and shops only accept gowns that are in excellent condition or have been recently cleaned.
If you want to ensure that your dress is in good shape for its new owner, it’s a good idea to have it professionally cleaned before packing it for shipment. You should also consider the storage conditions for your wedding gown, as certain materials and fabrics can develop mold if they’re not stored properly. For this reason, it’s important to pack your dress in a garment bag or wrap. This will protect the dress from dust, pests and other contaminants that can ruin it. For added protection, consider using acid-free packing materials.