If you are looking for an easy way to get rid of your wedding dress, consider donating it to a charity. You’ll be helping out a cause you believe in and you’ll be getting a tax write-off. However, there are a few things you should know before you start the process.
First, you’ll want to make sure that you’re donating to a reputable organization. While there are tons of nonprofits out there that accept your donations, they all have different guidelines. Some of them require you to pay a cleaning fee, while others don’t. There are also charities that charge you extra for washing your gown.
Aside from donating your wedding dress, you may have other items to offer. These can include accessories such as veils, shoes, or jewelry. In fact, you can even find a number of thrift stores that will take your items and use the money to fund their programs.
Generally, you should not donate a worn out dress. Instead, look for an item that is in good condition. Whether you’re donating a dress or other items, you should have a bag or suitcase ready to transport your donated items. Make sure you pack your items properly so they don’t become ruined in transit.
One example is a charity called Brides Across America, which will help you find a new home for your wedding dress. This charity will donate up to 2,000 dresses each year, and you can donate yours via mail or in person. Also, you can sign up for a monthly giveaway of free gowns. The organization will contact you with details about when and where you can drop your dress.
Another example is the Georgia Breast Cancer Coalition Fund, which will donate your dirty wedding gown for a $50 donation. The organization uses the revenue to fund breast cancer research and other worthwhile causes. It also prioritizes trumpets, flares, and ballgowns, so you might want to sift through your donations first.
Finally, there is a charitable charity called the Emma and Evan Foundation, which will accept all types of wedding-related items. They provide a variety of free keepsake items to families who have lost infants. As well, they will accept prom and bridesmaid dresses.
To find out what charities accept your wedding dresses, visit the website of the Charity Guide, which is an excellent resource for finding local charities. Most organizations will ask you for specific details about the items you’re donating, so be sure to check in with them beforehand.
Lastly, you should be sure to follow the charity’s instructions. For instance, you might not be allowed to wash your items, but you can give them disinfectant spray. Similarly, you might not be able to take pictures of your gowns, but most places have social distancing protocols in place.
The best part is that you’ll be donating something that will be appreciated by many. Depending on the size of the organization, it might even be possible for you to get a tax write-off for your donation.