If you’ve already worn your wedding gown or aren’t planning on passing it on to a future bride, consider donating it. It’s a way to help others, free up storage space, and give back. Plus, it reduces textile waste and landfills.
There are a variety of organizations that accept wedding dress donations. Search online or ask your local charity to learn more. The most important thing to do is familiarize yourself with the organization’s guidelines before submitting your donation. Some may require that your wedding dress be in pristine condition or that you provide specific information such as the size of your gown and its length. Also, be sure to have it professionally cleaned before you donate it.
Some wedding dress charities have a more specific cause in mind. For example, the Emma and Evan Foundation repurposes donated wedding dresses into infant burial gowns or “angel gowns,” bonnets, and keepsake items to be given to families who have lost an unborn child or young baby. This organization requires that your wedding dress be newer than three years old, be in good condition, and have a trumpet or A-line style. They also recommend that you contact the organization to verify your dress fits their guidelines and receive additional donation instructions.
Other organizations, such as Brides Against Breast Cancer and Becoming a Cupcake, use wedding dress donations to support a range of causes, including providing breast cancer awareness and early detection programs. The Salvation Army and other thrift stores also accept dresses and other items for donation, often using the sales proceeds to support job programs, housing, veterans, and more.
In addition, many bridal and wedding expos offer discounted or donated gowns to their attendees. Check with your local bridal expo to find out if they accept gown donations. Additionally, look for local buy/sell/trade groups on social media or online to see if there are any forums specifically dedicated to wedding gowns and accessories.
The KEMP Wyre Forest Hospice, which offers care and support for patients with life-limiting illnesses, has an Angel Gown Network in the UK that accepts donations of wedding dresses and other attire. The dresses are then repurposed into infant burial gowns or angel gowns for babies who have died, and the proceeds are used to support the organisation’s work. Similar networks are forming across Canada.
Other organisations, such as Adorned in Grace, sells pre-owned bridal dresses and formalwear. The sales proceeds help fund professional counseling for sex trafficking victims, advocacy publications, and other initiatives. The charity store’s inventory is always changing, so you can check their website to see what they have in stock when you drop off your donation.