When Tess Soholt spotted a wedding dress at a thrift store for just 50 cents, she saw more than a symbol of joy. It was the beginning of a new chapter in her life, one that would help grieving parents whose babies died during pregnancy or at birth. Soholt, a retired labor and delivery nurse, began the project that would become Tiny Angel Gowns. The program repurposes donated wedding gowns into tiny dresses that bring dignity to a baby’s brief life.
At Riley Children’s Hospital, a seamstress is using the same principle to give families solace in the face of tragedy. She repurposes donated wedding dresses into angel gowns for babies who pass away during their time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Melissa Tyo, who oversees the Comfort Committee, said they work with nurses and families to provide support and comfort when a family loses their child. “One of the most important things is to have something for them to remember their baby,” she said. “The gowns are so beautiful and really allow them to have a final moment with their baby.”
Soholt is one of many seamstresses across the country who turn bridal dresses into infant burial garments. Known as angel gowns, the handmade outfits are offered for free to families who need them. The dresses are designed to look like the outfit a baby would wear in heaven, with a lace bodice and delicate hemline. A sash and bonnet are also provided, along with a special pouch to keep the gown safe and protected.
Each outfit is handmade, and Cortes’ team of volunteers at Sunshine State Angel Gowns works with donations from all over the state of Florida. The organization is entirely volunteer-run, and Cortes says she welcomes anyone who wants to learn how to sew. She’s also available via FaceTime for those who may need extra guidance.
For babies who are too small for full angel gowns, Cortes’ volunteers create wraps – each with a tiny blanket and hat. The wraps allow parents to hold their babies, take pictures and spend precious moments together.
The gowns are available to any family who has experienced a loss at a central Florida hospital, and they are provided for free. A parent who needs a gown can contact the hospital directly, or they can reach out to Sunshine State Angel Gowns to request an outfit.
Powell’s outfits are shipped to hospitals all over the United States and even four other countries, but she’s hoping to expand her operation so more families can find relief. She is hosting a fundraiser on Sunday at Rhythm and Smooth in Casselberry to raise money for her organization.
For those who want to donate a wedding dress, Powell asks that you contact the original owner of the dress and let them know you will be turning it into an angel gown. She prefers a white or ivory dress, but she’ll accept any color in between.