Author: angelgownsbydiane

Child funeral is a term used to describe the process of planning and holding a memorial service for a deceased infant, toddler or young child. The decision to involve children in this way varies widely among families and is usually determined by the level of comfort they feel and the amount of preparation that has taken place. Involving children in family commemorative rituals helps them understand that death is a natural part of life and is not something to be afraid of. When children are involved in a child funeral, it is important to have an open line of communication and to prepare them for what they will experience. This will allow them to express their emotions and questions freely and without feeling judged. It is also important to reassure them that it is okay to be sad and scared, as these feelings are normal. The most important factor in determining whether or not a child should attend a funeral is their emotional readiness. Children process grief differently than adults, and their understanding of death varies by age and developmental stage. Toddlers may not fully comprehend the permanence of death, and older children often struggle with complex emotions such as sadness, fear, confusion and guilt. It is best to avoid leaving a child alone during the wake, funeral service or burial if possible. Having a trusted friend or relative stay with them can help them feel safe and secure. It also gives them someone to turn to if they need to leave the room or take a break. While the decision to include a child in a funeral or memorial service is a very personal one, most parents find that having their children present is the most meaningful way to honor their deceased child. It is also important to provide a variety of ways for children to participate in the ceremony, including reading a favorite poem, story or letter; singing their favorite song or lullaby; writing messages to their loved one on a message board or matted picture frame; and sharing a special momento from home. If the body will be viewed at the visitation or funeral, it is important to explain that the person in the casket will not wake up and that they are simply resting. Some children may be frightened by the appearance of their loved one in the casket and may not want to view it. If this is the case, a closed casket or urn can be arranged. Involving a child in the planning of their own funeral or memorial service can be very healing for many families. This can give them a sense of control and help them connect to their loved one in a way that feels meaningful to them. For example, some children choose to dress in their favorite color or wear a shirt or sweater with the deceased’s name on it. Other children have preferred songs or poems read during the service, and shy children can be encouraged to write a special message on a memory book or matted picture frame.

When it comes to baby clothing, the options are seemingly endless. While it’s tempting to purchase every cute outfit that catches your eye, building a functional wardrobe that meets your baby’s needs and keeps them clean and cozy requires careful consideration. Newborns grow fast, so it’s important to focus on a few basics that are essential for keeping them comfortable and safe. Onesies and rompers are great choices, since they combine a top and bottom into a single garment. They’re ideal for everyday wear, whether your baby is lounging at home or going out on a stroll. Choose clothes that are soft to the touch and breathable, as newborns can become fussy when their skin is itchy or uncomfortable. Clothes that are too tight or made of rough materials can also interfere with your newborn’s growth and development. Opt for cotton clothes, as they’re typically softer and easier to wash than synthetic fabrics like polyester. Brushed or pima cotton are both popular options that feel luxuriously smooth and cool against your newborn’s skin. Infant clothes should be fitted but not snug, as newborns need flexibility and freedom of movement to explore their environment. Look for flexible elastic bands around the wrists, ankles and waist to allow your baby’s natural movement. Newborns spend 16-18 hours a day sleeping, so comfortable pajamas are essential for their health and well-being. Sleep-promoting sleepwear, such as a swaddle blanket or sleep sack, helps them settle into a restful pattern and can reduce their startle reflex. Choosing soft, lightweight pajamas that are easy to take on and off for diaper changes is another good way to make nighttime diaper changes as stress-free as possible. Keep in mind that babies need extra layers during cold weather, as they’re more sensitive to temperature changes than adults. A cotton onesie layered with a sweater or knitted jacket is an effective way to keep your little bundle of joy warm without overheating. A hat, mittens and socks complete the winter ensemble, helping your newborn stay comfortable while adjusting to the cooler weather. Babies require a lot of clothing, due to their frequent diaper changes and the risk of spit-up and spills. It’s a good idea to opt for quality clothing that can hold up to repeated washes and resist shrinkage, such as organic or 100% cotton. Also look for garments that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free to avoid irritating your baby’s delicate skin. As a new parent, you may want to consider a few specialty garments that are perfect for special occasions or activities. Swimwear, formal dresses and costumes are a few examples of items you’ll want to have on hand when your little one wants to dress up or get dressed up.

Choosing and making the proper burial attire for your loved one is a very personal process. There are many different options available: from a simple, wrapped shroud to multi-piece religious garments, from handmade tatting to silk, from plain shrouds you can add art to, and from your own grandpa’s shirts to something made out of recycled fabrics and ribbons. Whatever your choice may be, you can feel confident that it will bring a sense of comfort and respect to the deceased. In addition, the use of burial gowns has been shown to be beneficial for the grieving family members. There are a number of places to purchase or make your own burial clothes, including funeral homes. The staff at these establishments offer a great deal of expertise in handling end-of-life arrangements and can guide you through your options. They are also likely to have a good idea of what has been traditionally worn by their clientele. Another source for clothing is the deceased’s closet. If your loved one has specific requests or prefers a particular outfit to be their burial attire, you can often find what they want in the closet, such as a favorite suit or a dress that they liked wearing for special occasions. Many people choose to embellish their burial apparel with things that are meaningful to the deceased, such as a piece of their favorite jewelry or a teddy bear. These elements aren’t necessarily appropriate for everyone, so consult your local funeral directors if you have any questions about what can or cannot be worn for the burial service. Some items are not suited for a person who is being buried in a casket, and it’s best to avoid them in case you run into any complications with your choice. For example, you’ll need to consider whether the person who is being buried will have their arms raised for viewing or lowered into the casket, and a shirt with sleeves that won’t fit the body properly will be problematic. Those who are being buried in a green burial will often wear an eco-friendly, natural shroud made out of cotton or linen. The simplicity and biodegradability of this type of burial garment makes it a popular choice among those who want to honor their deceased loved ones while protecting the environment. If you have an old wedding dress that no longer serves its original purpose, there are several organizations that accept donations of bridal gowns for the purposes of making angel gowns and burial shrouds. For example, The Emma and Evan Foundation uses donated wedding dresses to create burial gowns for infants who have died. These garments are gifted to grieving families as a lasting tribute and a reminder of their loved one’s life. The organization provides details for mailing or dropping off your donation.

If you’re decluttering your closet, donating your wedding dress is an easy way to get rid of one of your most sentimental pieces and help others at the same time. Several nonprofit organizations accept wedding gown donations, either to sell or give away. The Salvation Army is an international faith-based charity organization that operates numerous programs and services throughout the world. In addition to adult rehabilitation and prison ministry work, the charity also provides disaster relief, housing, clothing, food, and other household goods and accessories. Accepted items include wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses, and bridal accessories. You can donate your gown by visiting a local Salvation Army thrift store or by completing an online form. Brides for a Cause is a non-profit bridal store that collects and resells donated wedding dresses to raise funds for dozens of women-focused charities. Since 2012, the company has raised over $1.2 million through the sale of donated dresses. They accept gowns that are less than five years old and professionally cleaned. Donors can drop off their donation in person at a store location or ship their gown to one of their roadshow events. Adorned in Grace is a faith-based nonprofit that uses wedding dress donations to raise money for anti-trafficking programs in various communities. The donations are used to support victims of human trafficking, provide training for churches on how to recognize and prevent human trafficking, and provide counseling and advocacy services. The nonprofit also needs new and gently-used veils, gloves, and other bridal accessories. You can drop off your donation in person at the bridal boutique or ship it according to their online instructions. The organization will also accept men’s ties that can be turned into bow ties for bridesmaids, groomsmen, or children’s wear. Before you donate your wedding gown, make sure it’s in good condition. Look for stains, rips, and tears, and check for mold, which can develop in moist environments like basements. If you notice any damage, have it repaired by a seamstress before you donate it to a charity. Some brides keep their wedding gowns for sentimental reasons, or because they want to pass them down to future generations. If you can’t part with yours, you could consider preserving it to use for a vow renewal ceremony or other special occasions, or making a baptismal, Christening, or dedication gown out of it. You could also incorporate a portion of your wedding gown into a keepsake like a pillow or purse. If you don’t have any future plans for your wedding dress, donating it is an easy way to give back and declutter your closet. It’s also a great way to get a tax deduction, if you choose to itemize. However, some brides prefer to take the concept of giving back a step further by planning a charitable wedding. If you’re interested in planning a wedding that supports a certain cause, check out our expert advice page for ideas.

One in four women experience a loss of a baby through miscarriage or still birth. Angel gowns help families who say goodbye to their little ones. Volunteer seamstresses transform donated wedding dresses into unique, one-of-a-kind burial gowns for tiny babies, often in sizes that are hard to find, like the micro preemie. They don’t let any bead or scrap of lace go to waste. They can make as many as 18 different, tiny angel gowns and wraps from a single dress. They also create blankets, hats, two onesie sets and heart-shaped memorial trinkets that are given to the baby, their parents and family. These beautiful keepsakes are often used for first and last photos, or at a family’s memorial service. The organization is expanding to places like Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where they placed the first Butterfly Room in Virginia and are working to support bereaved families with cooling units and a comforting place to say goodbye. It’s a national program with networks in Canada too. If you have a wedding dress to donate, and don’t want it to go to waste, check out this website to find an angel gown network near you.

A child funeral is a time for family members to share memories, remember the person who died and say goodbye. It is also an opportunity for children to learn about death, the grief process and participate in a family ritual that can help them understand and cope with loss. Often, this will be the first time that a child has experienced the death of someone close to them. This is a highly emotional and stressful situation for anyone, but for children, it can be especially difficult. The way that children understand and react to death varies widely depending on their age, developmental stage and previous exposure to loss. However, in all cases, they require honest information and open communication about the event and its implications. They need to be able to express their feelings and questions without fear of being judged or punished, and they need to be included in decisions, discussions and family commemorative rituals whenever possible. Explain the funeral process ahead of time: where it will take place, who will be there and what they may see, hear and feel. Allow their natural curiosity to guide the conversation and answer their questions as honestly as you can. Providing them with a clear roadmap of what to expect can relieve anxiety and make them feel more prepared. Consider appointing a trusted, known adult as your child’s funeral buddy, who can be available to take them for a walk or provide distraction during the service if needed. They can also help explain what is happening and what to expect throughout the ceremony. This allows you to focus on your own needs and emotions while knowing that your child is being cared for by a loved one they trust. At the graveside, offer to let your child touch their sibling’s casket (if this is culturally appropriate) and share memories if they wish. If it is a closed casket, explain that their sibling is still present and that the body is not cold, in pain or afraid. This may also be an opportunity to clarify any other misconceptions they might have about death. Afterwards, allow them to sprinkle a bit of glitter or light a candle on their sibling’s memorial. Many children find this a comforting activity and it can help them feel like they participated in the funeral. Talk about your child’s funeral and memorial services in a positive, life-affirming way. This will help them develop healthy coping skills and maintain a more positive outlook on life in the face of serious illness, loss and death. It will also give them a framework for future conversations about their loved ones as they grow older. You can use these talks to reinforce the message that everyone has their own unique way of grieving and no one method is right or wrong. This article is based on the book “Saying Goodbye: A Child’s Guide to Funerals and Memorial Services” by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph.D.

Newborn babies require a lot of clothing. Choosing clothes that are comfortable, practical and a good fit is important to help them sleep, move and grow. In addition, many parents prefer to choose organic baby clothes and other sustainable options for their little ones. Eco-friendly materials are not only better for the environment, but they also provide a softness that babies appreciate and can minimize irritation. These materials also promote ethical and responsible corporate practices. Newborns spend 16-18 hours a day sleeping, so it is vital that their clothes are comfortable and soft. Too-tight or rough clothing can irritate the skin and limit movement, which is not good for babies’ development. Stylish and functional infant clothes are available to keep newborns comfortable all through the day and night, including bodysuits, infant rompers, footed pajamas, dresses and skirts, knit sweaters and layette sets, plus a wide range of accessories such as socks, hats, mittens and bibs. Keeping up with baby’s ever-growing wardrobe can be expensive, especially since they outgrow outfits so quickly. To avoid overspending, look for a versatile style that can be worn for both warm and cold weather. A onesie is an excellent choice, with sleeves and a bottom that zips and fastens. They can be worn with a jacket or coat for outdoor trips. A hoodie, with its soft fleece fabric, is another option for cold weather. The warm material keeps babies cozy, while the hood protects their faces from cold winds or sunburn. Some hoodies also include fold-over scratch mitts to prevent babies from accidentally scratching themselves. During warmer weather, rompers or 2-in-1 dresses (a dress top half with a romper under section) are a popular choice. They are ideal for combining dressy elements with the convenience of a nappy-changing outfit, and can be supplemented with bibs during feeding time. Babies need socks and hats to stay warm, particularly during the winter months. They lose heat through their heads and feet, so having 3-5 pairs of soft cotton hats and socks in rotation is helpful. These items can also be useful for trips outdoors or when the temperature drops in indoor settings. The best baby clothing is soft and durable to withstand diaper blowouts, spills, spit-ups and other everyday wear and tear. Durable baby clothing is made of fabrics that are gentle and smooth on the skin, such as organic cotton or bamboo rayon fibers. Look for snaps or poppers instead of traditional buttons, which can be difficult to grasp for tiny hands. Newborns like to be swaddled, which can help them feel secure and comfortable. Swaddle blankets or sleep sacks wrap babies tightly, mimicking the feeling of the womb and helping them sleep soundly. A few swaddle blankets and sleep sacks are essential in your newborn’s wardrobe, but as they grow older and become more mobile, it is recommended to transition them into regular clothing, such as sleepers or footed pajamas. If possible, opt for organic cotton and/or eco-friendly fabrics for the highest quality, and consider buying a few extra pieces to allow for growth.

The death of a loved one is a difficult time for everyone involved. There are many details that need to be taken care of, including funeral arrangements and clothing choices. While this may seem like an odd thing to think about, it is important that the final attire respects the deceased and reflects their personality and style. It is common for burial attire to lean towards formality, especially with men’s and women’s clothing options. Suits, dress shirts, and ties are a popular choice for men, while dresses or skirts are often preferred for women. However, the level of formality can vary depending on the preferences and culture of the deceased as well as their family’s beliefs and values. For example, some families may choose more casual clothing such as a favorite outfit or a t-shirt with a special message on it. Others may prefer a more traditional option such as a classic black dress that exudes elegance and solemnity. In addition to these considerations, religious beliefs or customs can also play a role in the selection of burial clothes. If your loved one has made their funeral or memorial plans prior to their passing, they may have specified an outfit that they would like to be buried in. In addition, many funeral homes offer a wide selection of burial clothing as part of their services and can guide you through the available choices. Additionally, there are several local organizations that can provide you with a range of burial apparel from wedding gowns to baby blankets. For infants, it can be difficult to find clothing in small sizes. For this reason, Missy Ray founded Angel Gowns of WNY in April 2014, a nonprofit organization that aims to make one-of-a-kind angel gowns for every infant that passes away before their parents can hold them in their arms. The angel gowns are made from donated wedding and prom dresses and are able to be provided for free to families who request them. A few things to remember when selecting burial clothing are that items should be comfortable and easy to move in, since the body will begin to swell after embalming. Also, items with rubber, plastic, or metal should be avoided because they can cause damage to the cremation chamber. If you have any questions, be sure to contact your funeral home for guidance or assistance. Often times, people choose to donate their own wedding gowns or prom dresses so that other women and children can be dressed in them for their loved ones’ funerals. This allows people to pay tribute to the deceased and also provides them with a beautiful keepsake from their life. Additionally, some people choose to purchase or borrow gowns so that they can have something that is as close to their loved one’s style as possible during a very difficult time. This option is also a great way to support the work of nonprofits such as Angel Gowns of WNY.

For many brides, their wedding gown is one of the most sentimental items they own. While some brides choose to preserve their bridal gowns for future use (like at a vow renewal or their child’s wedding), others find that the work involved with maintaining a dress and storing it in a closet outweigh the benefits of keeping it. That’s where wedding dress donation comes in. Donating your gown to a charity or thrift shop can free up closet space, provide a tax deduction and help someone else’s special day, too. While reselling your wedding dress can be an option, it can also be more work than it’s worth. Between getting your gown professionally cleaned and mended, taking high-quality photos, and waiting for it to sell, the process can take six months or more. In addition, there’s no guarantee that you’ll recoup your initial investment. “You could always repurpose your dress as a piece of decor, but it’s just not the same,” says Drew Edwards, founder of Brides Against Breast Cancer Charity, who advises that donating is the best way to ensure your gown has a meaningful, positive impact. Founded in 1997, Brides Against Breast Cancer resells gently used dresses in order to raise money for early detection and awareness programs. They’ve sold over 50,000 donated wedding gowns in the past two decades, and the proceeds from those sales have funded research, education, and support groups for breast cancer victims. The organization has an online shop where brides can schedule a time to drop off their dress in-person, and they’ll send you instructions for shipping the dress if you can’t make it. The Brides Project in Michigan resells donated wedding gowns to raise money for cancer support services, like counseling and nutrition workshops, for those affected by the disease. Their online store features both gently worn wedding gowns and new bridal accessories. They accept donations year-round and offer a drop-off box in Ann Arbor, or you can ship your wedding gown to them by following their online guidelines. A Maryland-based bridal boutique, Cherie Sustainable Bridal, sells preowned gowns to support Success in Style, a nonprofit that provides professional attire and basic interview skills to those in crisis. It accepts wedding gowns less than five years old, as well as dresses from the bride’s maids and flower girls. It doesn’t require you to have your gown professionally cleaned before donating, but they ask that you contact them for their mailing address and donation release form beforehand. If you’d rather assist a sex trafficking victim, consider donating your wedding dress to Adorned in Grace. The faith-based organization carries wedding dresses and formalwear, and the sales proceeds fund professional counseling for trafficking survivors and awareness publications. You can drop off your wedding gown at a Goodwill store in quarantine, or contact the nonprofit directly for mailing instructions.

1 in 4 women will experience an infant loss either through miscarriage or stillbirth. It is not easy for families to say goodbye to their precious little one. Angel gowns are a way for parents to say their last farewell in comfort. These are created by volunteer seamstresses from donated wedding dresses that are remade into beautiful one of a kind burial gowns and angel wraps. Each angel gown comes in a kit that includes the special dress, blanket, two hats and heart and memorial trinkets. These kits are given to hospitals, bereavement groups and funeral homes. KOMO’s ANALANE POWELL: The process of creating the tiny angel gowns takes a long time and is very meticulous work. The seamstresses use every piece of the white fabric and beads to create something that is unique for someone so precious. They can make up to 18 one of a kind little gowns and angel wraps from a single wedding dress. They even create special baby blankets made out of the material that are used in hospitals for the smallest babies. If you have a wedding dress that you no longer want, look up an organization that accepts them in your area. You can also donate supplies like lace, ribbons and sewing materials. Some of these groups even need donated men’s ties for making little bow ties for the boys’ angel gowns and wraps.