What should I do with my wedding dress after the wedding?
After your wedding, your dress holds memories and sentimental value, but deciding what to do with it can be challenging. Here are several options for what you can do with your wedding dress after the big day:
1. Preserve It
Professional Cleaning and Preservation:
Why: If you want to keep your dress as a keepsake or pass it down to future generations, professional preservation is essential. It involves cleaning the dress to remove stains (like those from makeup, sweat, or dirt) and then packing it in a special acid-free box to prevent yellowing and deterioration.
How: Take your dress to a reputable bridal preservation specialist as soon as possible after the wedding. The sooner you clean and preserve it, the better the results.
2. Repurpose It
Transform It Into Something New:
Why: If you’re not attached to keeping your dress intact, you can repurpose it into something new and meaningful.
How:
Anniversary or Christening Outfits: Use the fabric to create an outfit for your child’s christening or your wedding anniversary celebration.
Jewelry or Accessories: Convert the fabric into a piece of jewelry, a clutch, or other accessories that you can wear on special occasions.
Home Decor: Turn the dress into decorative items like a pillow, quilt, or framed art for your home.
3. Sell It
Resell Your Dress:
Why: If you’re not attached to keeping your dress, selling it can be a great way to recoup some of the costs and give another bride the chance to wear a beautiful gown at a reduced price.
How:
Online Marketplaces: List your dress on wedding resale websites like Stillwhite, PreOwnedWeddingDresses, or Poshmark.
Consignment Shops: Some bridal boutiques offer consignment services where they sell your dress on your behalf.
4. Donate It
Give It to Charity:
Why: Donating your wedding dress can be a wonderful way to give back and help others. Some organizations provide dresses to brides in need or repurpose them for other charitable causes.
How: Look for organizations like Brides Across America, which provides wedding dresses to military brides, or Angel Gowns, which repurposes wedding dresses into burial gowns for infants.
5. Trash or Rock the Dress
Creative Photo Shoots:
Why: “Trash the Dress” or “Rock the Dress” photo shoots have become popular as a way to celebrate the end of your wedding in a fun, artistic way. These shoots involve wearing your dress in non-traditional settings, such as the beach, a forest, or even underwater, to create striking photos.
How: Hire a photographer who specializes in these types of shoots and choose a location that resonates with you. Just be prepared that the dress may be irreparably damaged in the process.
6. Store It
Keep It for Future Use:
Why: If you’re unsure what to do with your dress right away, you can store it properly until you decide. Keeping it in a good condition ensures it will still be an option for any future use you might consider.
How: Store your dress in a cool, dry place, preferably in a breathable garment bag. Avoid hanging it long-term to prevent stretching, especially if the dress is heavy or has delicate straps.
7. Pass It Down
Heirloom for Future Generations:
Why: Passing your wedding dress down to your children or other family members can be a beautiful tradition. They may choose to wear it as-is, or incorporate parts of it into their own wedding attire.
How: Preserve the dress carefully and store it in a way that keeps it in pristine condition. Be sure to share its story with your family, so its sentimental value is understood and appreciated.
8. Host a Party
Host a Wedding Dress Party:
Why: If you love the idea of wearing your dress again, consider hosting a party where you and your friends can all wear their wedding dresses. It’s a fun way to relive the memories and get more use out of the gown.
How: Organize a themed party with your bridal party or other married friends, complete with photos, dancing, and wedding cake. This could be a great activity for a milestone anniversary.
Your wedding dress holds a special place in your heart and can continue to bring joy long after the wedding day. Whether you choose to preserve it, repurpose it, or pass it on, there are many ways to ensure your dress remains a cherished part of your life. Consider what feels right for you, and let your wedding dress continue to tell its story.
4o
