After your wedding dress makes its debut down the aisle, and once the reception celebrations are over and decorations have been packed away, the question arises: what to do with your wedding dress? There are a few options for your wedding gown. It falls in one of the few situations: end up in a down store, a donation bin or repurposed. Wherever it goes, one thing that always goes neglected is preserving the dress, which is the most crucial step.
To make your wedding dress last longer and remain in good condition, have it professionally preserved. This is a wise investment, especially if you plan to sell or donate it later. With preserving your wedding dress, it will remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Here’s a fresh breather for you. You’re not the only bride wondering what to do with their wedding dress. The good news is there are several options available that can give your dress a new lease of life.
Here are a few of our favorite options for you to consider.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
For the sentimental bride, there’s the classic route of professional preservation. In this, your gown gets meticulously cleaned and encased in a breathable, acid-free box, safeguarded from light, dust, and the ravages of time. This ensures your dress remains a treasured heirloom, ready to be passed down for generations to come.
Repurposing Your Dream Dress
One of our favorite things to do with gowns is repurpose it for something else. A skilled tailor can work wonders, transforming your gown into a stunning cocktail dress perfect for future anniversaries or galas. Perhaps a chic skirt paired with a statement top becomes your go-to outfit for special occasions. Or maybe you envision delicate heirloom handkerchiefs, imbued with the history of your wedding day, to be passed down as treasured keepsakes.
Donate Your Dress
For brides with a generous spirit, consider giving your pre-loved gown the chance to grace another special day. Organizations like “Brides Across America” connect your dress with deserving brides-to-be who may not be able to afford a new one. The joy of seeing your gown create happiness for another bride is truly priceless.
Selling Your Dress and Passing on the Savings
Not everyone wants to keep their dress! If yours is a designer dress and in good condition, selling it online or at a shop that sells used wedding dresses can be a great way to make some money back. You can make significant money! Plus, another bride gets her dream dress at a cheaper price.
Preserving a wedding dress is crucial before selling it as it makes sure that your dress is not damaged. There are websites like “Sell My Wedding Dress” where you can sell your dress, along with shoes, bridesmaid dresses and other wedding stuff.
Loan it
Don’t let your stunning gown gather dust! This beauty deserves multiple grand entrances. Loan it to a friend, relative, or even a bride-to-be you haven’t met – it’s a chance to share the magic and get your cherished dress back after the celebrations.
Framing a Memory
Sometimes, a smaller token is all you need. Consider framing a beautiful detail from your dress, like intricate lace or delicate embroidery. This framed piece becomes a permanent reminder of your special day, a visual whisper of the love and joy you experienced.
Conclusion
There’s no right or wrong answer. The perfect “what-next” for your wedding gown depends on your emotional attachment, your budget, and your personal style. Maybe you choose preservation, ensuring its legacy for future generations. Perhaps you opt for a creative revamp, breathing new life into the fabric. Or maybe you find joy in sharing your dress, allowing it to grace another love story.
No matter your choice, remember to preserve your wedding dress before you decide to do anything to make sure it lasts long. Your wedding gown symbolizes a momentous occasion, a physical representation of the love and happiness you shared on your wedding day. Choose an option that celebrates the magic it embodies, allowing your dress to continue its journey, filled with love and cherished memories.
