Wedding dresses are a work of art that take a seamstress countless hours to create. So when it’s time to let go of your dress, you want to give it a loving home rather than having it sit in storage or get thrown out. Thankfully, there are plenty of places you can donate your wedding gown to. Here are a few options to consider:
Most Goodwill locations accept wedding gowns and other bridal accessories. Some Goodwill stores even hold yearly bridal events where donated dresses are displayed and sold. But it’s best to contact your local Goodwill in advance to see what their donation policies are, since each location may have a different policy.
The Salvation Army is a household name when it comes to charitable donations, but some people don’t know that the organization also accepts donated wedding dresses and other bridal accessories. The charity sells the dresses in its thrift stores to raise funds for its various charitable programs. Donated dresses are typically displayed at its annual bridal events, but the dress can also be purchased directly online.
Brides Against Breast Cancer is another nonprofit that accepts donated wedding dresses. The organization’s goal is to help women fight the disease by promoting early detection and prevention through its education and awareness programs. Donated dresses are used to fund these programs, so every dollar counts when you donate your wedding dress to this organization.
A more traditional donation option is to give your dress to The White Dress Project, which has been in business since 2008. Donated dresses are resold by the nonprofit at Operation Wedding Gown events for military and first responder brides, and the proceeds go toward the organization’s mission. This organization is a great choice for those who want to make an impact in their community and country.
If you’re interested in donating your dress to The White Dress Project, the organization asks that you fill out an online form and provide information about the gown, such as size and condition. The nonprofit will then provide you with a tax receipt.
Another option for donating your wedding dress is Adorned in Grace, which works to support sex trafficking victims and bring awareness to communities. The organization has a number of stores where newlyweds can purchase new and gently-used wedding dresses, bridal accessories, and formalwear. The sales proceeds help to provide professional counseling for survivors, education on sex trafficking, and more.
Before donating your dress, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the organization’s guidelines. Some charities have restrictions about the age, style, and size of gowns they can accept. And others require that your gown be professionally cleaned before donating it.
You can also find companies that will frame your wedding dress, turning it into a beautiful memento of your big day. This is a great option for those who don’t feel comfortable giving their wedding dress away or who want to keep it as a keepsake.