If you have a wedding dress you’re looking to get rid of, there are many ways to do so. For one, you can donate it to a charity that will help women who need it the most. Alternatively, you can sell it to a store that buys and resells used dresses. Both options can be a great way to help a cause while also making a little money, too!
Several charities take wedding dress donations and either distribute them to people in need or they sell them at greatly reduced prices. In some cases, you can even receive a tax deduction if you donate your gown to a nonprofit.
The Salvation Army is a well-known charitable organization that accepts and sells wedding dresses to raise money for their various programs. Each SA location has different policies on what they accept, so it’s best to contact your local Salvation Army and ask about their wedding dress donation policy before you bring your wedding gown into their store.
Goodwill is another popular option for wedding dress donations. They often hold yearly bridal events that feature donated wedding dresses, tuxes, and other wedding-related items. If you prefer to donate your dress to a charity that gives it a second life, consider Brides for a Cause. This nonprofit bridal boutique collects and resells wedding dresses to support dozens of women-focused charities, including organizations that aid single mothers, survivors of abuse, and veterans.
Angel Gowns of the Capital Region – This organization repurposes donated wedding dresses into infant burial gowns or “angel gowns” and bonnets for families who’ve lost a baby. The organization, based in Albany, NY, is comprised of volunteer sewers who make these items for free.
Adorned in Grace – This charity supports human trafficking victims by raising funds to provide them with clothing, accessories and other essentials. They also provide training for survivors to improve their livelihoods and independence.
Fairytale Brides on a Shoestring – This nonprofit provides lower-cost bridal dresses to low-income women in the Washington, DC area. They also provide retail opportunities for high school students who are interested in the fashion industry.
The Cancer Support Community – This charitable organization provides free support groups, workshops, nutrition and exercise classes, and stress reduction classes for those living with cancer or a related illness. They also host annual giveaways for those impacted by cancer, including wedding dresses.
Give A Way – This Facebook group is a place for women to post photos of their dresses for sale or for someone else to purchase them for a good cause. They have an ongoing “60 in 60” campaign to gather 60 donations by the end of October. The dresses will be given to brides who need them the most, such as women who are in financial crisis or those with a life-threatening medical condition.
Donate a Dress to Wish Upon a Wedding – This nonprofit helps provide couples with terminal illnesses or other health conditions with the wedding of their dreams. They can choose from a wide variety of donated dresses and can pick a gown to match the theme of their special day.