If you have a wedding dress in good condition that you’d like to donate, you have plenty of options. But it is important to follow a few simple guidelines. Whether you donate it to a local thrift store or to a charity, your wedding gown can make someone happy.
One of the best ways to do this is to donate your dress to a charity that specializes in resale. There are numerous organizations in the US that sell used wedding dresses at discounted prices. The proceeds are then used to fund programs that provide support to the disadvantaged.
You can find out what the best places to donate are by checking out the websites of various charities. However, it is also a good idea to contact these organizations before donating. This will ensure that your dress is properly disposed of. Also, be sure to check with the organization to learn about the donation protocol and requirements.
Most charities that specialize in the donation of gowns are volunteer-run. They will usually have a few specific guidelines to follow, such as the dress’s age and condition. For example, a newer dress is more likely to be accepted than one that is over four years old. Similarly, an item that is stained should not be donated. Even a small stain on the dress will add a lot of stress to the charity’s staff.
Some charities even offer cleaning services, which is a great way to get your dress in working order. Especially if you’re a volunteer, it can be extremely helpful to have your dress cleaned. Be sure to ask if you’ll need to pay a cleaning fee. While it’s unlikely that you’ll have to, it’s always a good idea to have your dress professionally cleaned before donating it.
The best way to go about donating your wedding dress is to call up the nonprofit organization that you’d like to work with and ask them. Some of them will have an online form where you can fill out the appropriate details. Others will let you know how long it will take them to process your donation, which is useful if you have an upcoming wedding.
Brides Across America has been outfitting brides across the country with donated wedding dresses for many years. In fact, the charity has given away more than 24,000 dresses to military, first responder, and other brides. Since 2008, they have outfitted more than 26,000 women with wedding gowns. To help brides in need, they’ve held Operation Wedding Gown giveaways in November.
Several charities, including the Salvation Army, offer wedding dress pick-ups. Alternatively, you can visit your local community center and drop off your donation there. Finally, a number of thrift stores are willing to accept your dress as long as it is in good condition. A tax deduction is always a good idea, and you can receive a receipt for your donation.
The charitable organizations above all else are a great place to donate your wedding dress, and you’ll feel good knowing that your wedding gown is being put to good use.