Author: angelgownsbydiane

When the wedding festivities are over and your beautiful gown is hanging in your closet, a new bride might be wondering, “What now?” Instead of leaving it to collect dust, donate it! Many bridal charity outlets (like Oxfam in both Dublin and Bangor, Barnardos Bridal in Dun Laoghaire and Wexford and St Vincent de Paul in all counties) are happy to take your dress off your hands. Plus, donating your dress has other benefits: it’s potential tax-deductible and helps reduce the amount of carbon emissions created by the textile industry, according to Zola. As a bonus, it frees up more space in your closet for the next bride to make her own memories in! And, if you do decide to sell or store your dress, keep in mind that a local thrift shop is another way to give it a second life while supporting a great cause. For instance, Cherie Sustainable Bridal in Maryland accepts donated dresses and other bridal accessories to support Success in Style, a program that helps people in need get jobs. The nonprofit also runs a retail boutique, Cherie Amour, where it sells the gowns for less than their original cost and donates the rest of the proceeds to the organization. Other shops accepting gowns and other bridal accessories include Brides for a Cause in Portland, which donates the majority of the revenue from each sale to charities that benefit women. In addition, the Emma and Evan Foundation repurposes wedding dress donations into infant burial gowns, known as angel gowns, and bonnets that are given to grieving families for free. This non-profit, which focuses on supporting families who have lost children, has several locations in the US and Canada. Before you take your dress to a charity outlet, Chapman recommends doing some research on the company to ensure it’s reputable and that the proceeds from your dress are actually going to the charity you choose. She also suggests getting in touch with the charity to confirm its dress acceptance criteria and donation guidelines. Ultimately, if you’re not interested in reselling or donating your dress, consider keeping it as a piece of home decor. You could display it on a mannequin, use it as a backdrop for photos or turn it into a cherished keepsake for your children. If you’re a crafty goddess, you can even transform it into pillows and other home décor pieces! Remember to clean your dress before donating it, as some organizations might not accept dresses that have been worn. And before dropping it off, check with your chosen charity to see if they have any additional requirements, like having a certain time frame within which you need to donate the dress. It’s important to do your research so you can be confident that your wedding dress will help a worthy cause and bring joy to a new bride, too.

During this season of giving, many are searching for ways to give back. For some, the most fulfilling way to contribute is by providing comfort for others during times of grief and loss. For families whose infants are lost, at any stage of pregnancy, angel gowns can offer them a small bit of peace during their time of mourning. These gowns are created by seamstresses across the country using donated wedding dresses and donated material. The women work on a volunteer basis, which means there is no charge for the gowns and they are offered to hospitals, birthing centers, funeral homes, and directly to families. The NICU at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center extends its deepest gratitude to this special group of volunteers and their hard work. Each gown has been made with so much love, honoring the life of a baby taken too soon and helping to ease some of the pain associated with these tragic circumstances. Brandy Smith, a nurse in the NICU at Riley, knows first-hand how meaningful these gowns can be. The family of a young woman who recently passed away received one of these gowns, and she says it meant the world to them. “To know that someone took the time to make a beautiful dress in her memory, it helped us to not feel as suffocated and hopeless as we were feeling,” she says. Judi Mangiaracina, the founder of Angel Gowns, says she is proud that her organization has grown to include seamstresses throughout the United States. She credits the dedication of these women as the reason behind their success. Some of the seamstresses are retired, and some are stay-at-home moms, but they each find the time to sew these angel gowns during their free time. They even have a Facebook group where they communicate and share ideas about how to best create these garments. The program accepts bridesmaid dresses, mother-of-the-bride dresses, and prom gowns that are less than five years old in light shades of blue, pink, or purple. They also accept accessories such as shoes, jewelry, veils, and pins. The seamstresses use these items to create the angel gowns, which are then provided to hospitals, funeral homes, and directly to parents. Lisa McCoy, the placement coordinator for Angel Gowns, enjoys connecting with grateful hospital staff and arranging placement for the gowns. She has a passion for making people smile and feels her job is a great way to do that. She lives in Utah with her husband and six children, and when she isn’t sewing, she is volunteering at her local church. Dignity Health – St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach is dedicated to delivering high quality, compassionate care to patients and their families. Visit the website to learn more about the services they offer.

A child funeral is a very personal event, tailored to your family’s needs. You can choose a service in a place of worship, a funeral home, community venue or even hold a memorial at your own home. You can also choose a funeral director, independent celebrant or even a close friend or family member to lead the ceremony. If you decide to go with a religious funeral, your chosen priest or celebrant will help you design a ceremony that feels right for you and your baby. It is important that you talk to your child about what will happen. Children often have questions and concerns, so if you can answer their questions in a clear, simple way it will make them feel more prepared. It is also helpful to visit the cemetery or crematorium with them so they know where it will be held and can look at what it will be like. Most people will choose a coffin for their baby, although some parents prefer a urn. You can decorate it with flowers or special items that your child loved, such as a favourite toy or balloons. Many families also like to write a letter for their baby or young child, which can be placed in the coffin or urn. This is a chance to say ‘I love you’ one last time. Siblings may also want to write a message or poem for their brother or sister. These letters can be kept in a memory box afterwards. You should also consider whether you want a guest speaker at the funeral. This is a great opportunity to share the story of your child, and it can comfort other people too. However, if you don’t feel up to speaking at the funeral, don’t let anyone discourage you. It is more important that you speak from the heart than to try and sound ‘professional’. Children can sometimes become restless or bored at a funeral so it is a good idea to bring something that will keep them occupied. A book, a favourite toy or even a small snack could help. It is also worth bringing an extra adult with you who can take care of them, especially during any pauses in the service when they may be tempted to wander off. Many people find that a spiritual element is very comforting at a funeral, so you should decide if you would like to have a reading or prayers or not. You should also choose someone to carry your child out of the ceremony if they become distressed or overwhelmed, and you may wish to ask this person to stay with them after the service too. Finally, it is a good idea to protect your child from fawning sentimentality by not letting other mourners touch them or give too many hugs. This is particularly important if you have other young children. If you are going to enlist help, make sure they have a quiet space to retreat to when needed.

Newborns are small and delicate, so they need special care when it comes to their clothes. A good baby clothing brand prioritizes environmental and social responsibility by using organic materials, reducing their ecological impact, and providing healthy products that will not irritate the skin. These companies also use safer dyes to ensure that babies do not get any harmful chemicals on their skin. They are also concerned about the welfare of workers involved in production processes. This way, they can make sure that the people who work on their clothes are treated fairly and well. The best brands offer high-quality and durable baby clothes that are long-lasting. They are designed to withstand spills, infant spit-up, and other messes. In addition, they are made from soft materials that do not irritate the skin. They are also made with breathable fabrics to prevent heat buildup in hot weather. This way, the baby will feel comfortable and warm all day and night. Many parents are concerned about the quality of their newborn’s clothes. They want to choose a quality brand that provides a range of functional clothing options, including dresses, bodysuits, sleepwear, and outfits. They also need to consider their budget and the number of pieces they want to buy. It is important to remember that babies grow very quickly, so they may outgrow their clothes in a short period of time. It is a good idea to purchase a few sizes of each outfit so that they can be worn again. Most new parents know that organic cotton is the ideal material for baby clothing. Organic cotton is soft and durable, and it is naturally hypoallergenic. It also resists shrinking, pilling, and fading. This means that the clothes will last longer and be less expensive in the long run. In addition, they will be able to be worn and passed down by future siblings or friends. Babies are delicate, so they should be dressed in soft and breathable materials. Tight clothing can restrict their breath, which can cause discomfort and lead to rashes. It is also important to keep in mind that a newborn’s skin is sensitive, so it is essential to use only mild detergents when washing their clothes. In the colder months, the most important thing is to keep the baby warm. The best way to do this is by wearing a few layers of clothing, a thick hat, and mittens. It is also important to protect the baby’s bare skin with a coat or zip-up down snowsuit when going outside. A baby romper is a one-piece suit that covers both the top and bottom of the body, making it easy to dress and undress. Baby bodysuits are similar, but they have fasteners between the legs for diaper changes. Newborn footie pajamas are another option, as they combine comfort with warmth by covering the feet. Some of these garments even have attached mittens to help keep the baby’s hands from scratching themselves.

Choosing attire for your loved one’s viewing and funeral is an important personal choice that is deeply meaningful. This can be a complex decision that requires you to consider your loved one’s preferences, culture, and religious beliefs. Ultimately, your selection will be a final gesture of love and respect. Burial gowns are a way to pay tribute to your loved one and give them dignity during their final journey. Whether you’re looking for an outfit that matches their style or something that will honor their cultural heritage, there are many options to choose from. If you’re not sure where to begin, you can lean on the guidance of professional funeral directors who are trained to offer compassionate care and guidance during this difficult time. Historically, funeral attire has been designed to resemble day wear or evening clothing. For example, a man might choose a suit and tie and a woman might choose a formal dress or blouse. Today, however, funeral professionals can provide burial outfits in a range of natural fibers, which are suitable for green funerals and woodland burial grounds. Some outfits are even designed to look like a shroud. If your loved one wished to be dressed in a particular way for their final journey, it’s important to honour those wishes. Whether you have their written request or not, honouring those requests will help to ensure that your loved one is treated with the respect they deserve. Some faith traditions have specific guidelines for burial clothing. It is important to consult with a religious leader or clergy member to ensure that your choices comply with these religious customs. In addition, certain colors and symbols may hold special significance. For instance, if your loved one was an animal lover, you might want to consider a gown or coat made from fur or silk. You might also want to consider an outfit that is designed to be embroidered with their name or a special message. Another consideration is the weight of the garment you choose. The clothes you select should be light enough to fit into the casket without adding too much weight. In some cases, heavier clothing can interfere with the body’s movement and cause discomfort. While it’s tempting to add jewelry to an outfit, keep in mind that it will likely be buried with the body and will not be returned to your family after the funeral. Additionally, some pieces of jewelry will not lie well on the body while laying down and could end up misaligning or getting lost in the process. For infants who will be stillborn or die in the NICU, volunteers such as Ardath Hinds of Whittle Springs, Tenn., have been sewing beautiful burial garments for them. She and her team have sewed hundreds of tiny outfits for infants that will never come home. They are called Angel Gowns and include dresses, bonnets and a blanket. “They need this at such a tragic time,” she says.

After the guests leave and the gifts have been unwrapped, you might still find yourself staring at your wedding dress hanging in your closet. Instead of letting it gather dust, why not donate your gown? It’s a great way to give back, help someone else and make the world a better place. Plus, you can even get a tax deduction. If you don’t want to have your dress go unused, there are many charities that will take it off your hands. Some resell the dresses while others use the proceeds to support their missions. Some of the organizations that accept gown donations include the following: The Brides Project This bridal boutique with a heart in Ann Arbor, Michigan, sells donated wedding dresses to raise funds for free programming for families effected by cancer. The organization also provides high school girls with retail work experience. Angel Gowns for the Little Ones This nonprofit organization uses wedding dresses to create tiny baby gowns for infants who pass away before their first birthdays. The organization accepts donated dresses and also accepts donations from designers who want to contribute to the cause. Dreams in White This charity aims to provide wedding dresses and other accessories for low-income women who cannot afford the cost of a traditional wedding. Donated gowns are resold at discounted prices and the profits are used to fund the organization’s mission. The organization has been in operation since 2008 and has donated 28,000 dresses. Cherie Sustainable Bridal This Maryland-based company is a green bridal store that sells preowned gowns and accessories. Proceeds from the sale of the dresses are invested in international non-profits that empower vulnerable young women to choose an independent future for themselves. The company also focuses on reducing its carbon footprint by using recycled materials to make its dresses. The White Dress by the Shore This Massachusetts-based wedding dress rental company recycles and reuses gowns, which are restyled by its seamstresses to reflect new trends. The wedding dress rental business has a variety of styles available and offers a flexible return policy. The White Dress by the Shore has several locations in New England and offers a variety of rental packages to suit your needs. It also provides a number of customization options, including lace and embellishment upgrades. Before donating your wedding dress, contact the organization to see what they need and what their guidelines are. Some organizations will require that your dress be professionally cleaned. Others will not. Most of the charities that resell gowns will provide a receipt for your donation. You can use this as a tax deduction when you file your taxes, according to Zola. If you’re planning to donate your wedding gown, it’s a good idea to inspect the dress for any major rips and tears. If you notice any, have a seamstress repair them in advance of the donation. Lastly, wash or dry clean the dress and pack it up to ship it off in its container. This is especially important during the pandemic, as the COVID-19 virus can linger on fabrics and items for days.

For parents who have suffered the unthinkable loss of their newborn, a small measure of peace may come with the gift of a beautiful angel gown made from a donated wedding dress. Each gown is lovingly crafted by hand with so much love to honor the life of a baby taken far too soon. The nonprofit NICU Helping Hands accepts 15,000 wedding dresses each year, which seamstresses transform into gowns for photo shoots and funeral services. The organization keeps a waitlist of families who have lost their baby and then matches them with nearby seamstresses. One of those seamstresses is Judi Gaber, a nurse who works with families who have suffered the same unfathomable loss that her own family experienced. The grandmother of six and mother of two says the experience is “so emotional” when she sees the parents whose babies are born too soon, especially when they receive their angel gown. It is for that reason, that Gaber volunteered to turn wedding dresses into gowns that she hopes will bring some comfort to the bereaved parents she works with. Gaber has helped care for countless families who have had to say goodbye to their tiny infants due to miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS or a traumatic birth injury. Last year, Gaber spotted an advertisement for the Little Angel Gowns program in a newspaper and knew she had to get involved. The Michigan-based non-profit turns donated wedding gowns into burial clothing for infants who don’t make it home from the hospital. Founder Dawn Lafferty has built an impressive team of women and men who turn wedding dresses into tiny wraps, gowns, headbands and hats for infants too small to wear regular newborn clothes. The sewing team is comprised of a group of retired and active community members who volunteer their time to the cause. The work is done by a team of highly skilled pattern designers, seamstresses and embroiderers. Lafferty and her team have been creating around 7,000 angel gowns for the past year and a half, which are delivered directly into the hands of grieving families in the hospital. Each gown takes between 30 and 60 hours to make, but for those who are interested in getting involved, the organization is looking for more seamstresses. It’s also accepting donations of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses or formal dresses in light shades of pink, blue and purple. The International Program allows donors to follow their dress as it makes its way to a developing country (Guatemala is currently the country where dresses are going) and virtually meet with the seamstress who is working on the gowns you have donated. You will be able to see the process of making the garments and hear about how it is impacting her life and her community.

A child funeral—also called a visitation, wake, memorial service, homegoing service or celebration of life—is a ceremony that honors your child and helps everyone in the family process their grief. A service can be held in a chapel or home, place of worship, or at the graveside, depending on your preferences and your child’s needs. Some children choose not to attend a funeral or other services, which is completely normal and okay. If you decide not to bring your child, it is a good idea to designate a friend or family member to take care of them during the services and activities. This allows you to fully participate in the service and gives your child someone they can turn to if they become uncomfortable. If you choose to bring your child to a visitation or funeral, prepare them beforehand by explaining what will happen. If they are old enough to understand, you can also ask them what they want or need from the service. Some children like to help plan the service, so let them be a part of it in any way they are comfortable. This may include writing or decorating a tribute poster, choosing music or readings for the service and/or choosing flowers or gifts. Describe the casket to your child so that they know what to expect. It is helpful to use pictures or videos of the deceased to help them better understand what they will see. Many parents find that it is comforting for their child to see their sibling lying in the casket, especially if they were able to select the outfit their sibling was wearing. It is important to remind your child that their emotions are normal during this difficult time. If they start to show signs of being overwhelmed, encourage them to play or go to the bathroom. It is also helpful to explain that other people may be crying or having a hard time, too. It is a good idea to bring some quiet toys or books to help them during this time. Consider having a children’s room during the services, where kids can color, play or make a card for their sibling. This is a great way to keep them busy and give you a break from the crowd of people who may be grieving. If your child is buried or cremated, you can have a special headstone that is engraved with their name, birth and death dates and a graphic or photo of them. It’s a great way to remember them forever and share their story with the generations that come after them. If your child is a baby or toddler, you may wish to have them buried or urned at the same time so that you can hold a memorial service for both of them at the same time. This will be particularly helpful for young siblings who can’t quite grasp the concept of death. You can also record the memorial service for them so they have it to watch when they are older.

Newborn clothes aren’t just for cuteness; they’re a necessity to keep your little one warm and comfortable during their first year. Start with a solid base of bodysuits and onesies, then add layers to create outfits for any occasion. The right mix-and-match pieces can make your baby look like a mini trendsetter in the making. Depending on how often you’ll be doing laundry, you might want to double the amount of newborn essentials in the list below. If you are planning to do laundry more frequently, consider stocking up on clothing items that can be worn more than once before washing (like reversible jackets or dual-sided bibs). For daytime wear, consider rompers for a sunny outing. They’re a comfortable option for any weather, and come in a variety of styles, from ruffled shoulders to sweet prints. They also pair well with baby hats and socks to protect your bundle of joy from sun, wind, and cold. At night, you’ll need some footie pajamas to keep your newborn warm from head to toe. These are similar to bodysuits except they have built-in feet to prevent overheating during the night. For extra warmth, you may also consider a blanket for swaddling and a cozy sleeper gown. For playdates and family outings, dresses and skirts will provide the comfort and style you’re looking for. From twirl-worthy florals to baby girl stripes and black-and-white prints, your little lady can sport these trendy outfits with confidence. You can find stylish gender neutral baby clothes from brands like Colored Organics, which features a line of contemporary clothing with cool colors and prints, including skulls, stars and stripes. The brand also partners with charitable organizations to support families in need. Another popular option is Hanna Andersson, which has been a favorite of parents for decades. The company offers print-forward designs that can work for little boys or girls and is backed by the GOTS certification to ensure that every step of the production process is eco-friendly. They’re also partnered with beloved pop culture franchises and characters that are a hit for both baby girls and boys. Babies aren’t known for their patience, so don’t be afraid to shop around for the best price on the items you need most. You’ll often find deals on the newest styles and sizes from major retailers, but you can also look for gently-used baby clothing on sites like Poshmark and ThredUP to save money. Aside from price, it’s important to think about what you’ll be using the clothes for. Will you be using them for photos? Will you need them for a specific occasion, like a family portrait or a wedding? If you plan to use them for special occasions, consider splurging on a few designer pieces. These are typically made of higher quality fabrics and have details like matching parent versions to create a coordinated ensemble. They also tend to be more durable and can be passed down to future babies.

In many cultures around the world, people are buried or entombed in clothes that have special meaning to them. These garments, known as burial outfits or funeral attire, may be something that a loved one was wearing at the time of their death, a favourite garment, or an item of clothing with a sentimental value. These clothes can be worn for viewing or in a coffin during a funeral service. It is a common practice for families to choose an outfit that reflects the person’s lifestyle, culture or personal style. Choosing clothes for a funeral can be a distressing and emotional experience. In addition to considering your deceased friend or relative’s personal preferences, you will also need to take into account their religious beliefs and any wishes the family might have. In most cases, funeral directors will provide a range of suitable outfits that can be worn in the casket. While these are typically formal outfits, some families choose more casual clothing to align with the deceased’s personality or cultural background. Burial gowns are typically made from soft or satin-like fabrics. They resemble smart night gowns, pyjamas or dressing gowns, and they are available in both men’s and women’s styles as well as a unisex option. They are usually designed to be easily dressed over the body by the funeral director, and they can be purchased in a wide range of appealing fabrics and colours. In addition, a variety of styles are available for different types of funerals, from traditional suits to floral print dresses that are often worn at woodland burial sites. Baby bereavement gowns are designed to fit infants who die before, during or after birth. They are typically white and resemble Baptismal or Christening dresses. They are available in a range of sizes including small baby bereavement gowns to suit micro-preemies (babies born less than one pound at full term). A funeral dress is a long, flowing garment that resembles a skirt or a dress. It’s generally adorned with lace or embroidery, and it comes in a range of designs for both girls and boys. It can be paired with matching bloomers or trousers, and it is available in a variety of materials, from soft cotton to velvet. A large selection of funeral dresses can be found online, and some are even designed to look like wedding dresses or evening gowns. Some people who have a green burial choose to wear natural fibres such as calico, which is an eco-friendly alternative to cotton. This type of natural shroud is suitable for burial in a natural cemetery or woodland graveyard. A calico shroud is also commonly used to dress people who are being cremated. For a green funeral, you can also buy a burial shroud that is designed to be naturally biodegradable. It’s typically made from bamboo or a plant-based material, such as hessian, and it is available in a range of attractive colours. These shrouds can be customised with a message and are popular amongst people who want to minimise their environmental impact or for those who don’t want to use a traditional casket.