Congratulations, you've tied the knot and the wedding is over! Now, you're probably wondering, "What do I do with my wedding dress after the wedding?" This iconic gown has been a symbol of your special day, and it deserves a thoughtful aftercare plan. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you decide what to do with your wedding dress post-wedding.
Preserve Your Wedding Dress: Professional Cleaning and Storage
Before you decide what to do with your wedding dress, it's crucial to clean and preserve it properly. Wedding dresses are often delicate and expensive, so it's worth investing in professional cleaning services. They have the expertise and equipment to remove stains, odors, and any debris gently. After cleaning, consider the following preservation methods:
- Acid-free boxes or bags: Store your dress in an acid-free box or bag to prevent yellowing and damage from sunlight and moisture.
- Garment bags: Hanging your dress in a garment bag can help maintain its shape, but ensure it's not exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
- Professional preservation services: Some cleaning services offer long-term preservation options, such as sealing your dress in a protective covering or encapsulating it in a nitrogen-filled bag.
Display Your Wedding Dress: Showcase Your Special Day
If you're emotionally attached to your wedding dress and want to keep it as a memento, consider displaying it. Here are some creative ways to showcase your gown:
- Wedding dress display forms: These forms allow you to display your dress in a way that maintains its shape and showcases the details.
- Shadow boxes: A shadow box is a deep picture frame with glass that allows you to display your dress along with other wedding memorabilia, like your veil, bouquet, or invitation.
- Custom mannequins: Commission a custom mannequin in your size to display your dress in a way that highlights its unique features.
Repurpose Your Wedding Dress: Create Something New
If you're looking for a way to honor your wedding dress without keeping it as-is, consider repurposing it into something new. Here are some creative ideas:
- Alter it into a different garment: Transform your wedding dress into a cocktail dress, a jacket, or even a pair of pants. This allows you to continue wearing a piece of your special day while updating its style.
- Create keepsakes: Turn your wedding dress into keepsakes for yourself or loved ones. You can make a clutch, a piece of jewelry, or even a teddy bear for your future child.
- Donate it to charity: Organizations like Brides Across America and The Princess Project collect wedding dresses to give to brides in need. This is a wonderful way to pay it forward and help another bride have a special day.
Sell or Rent Your Wedding Dress: Make Some Money
If you're looking to make some money back from your wedding dress, consider selling or renting it. There are several online marketplaces and apps dedicated to buying and renting wedding dresses. Some popular options include:
- PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com
- StillWhite.com
- RentTheRunway.com
- Anovia.com
Before listing your dress, make sure to clean and preserve it properly, and take high-quality photos to showcase its details. Be honest about any imperfections, and set a price that reflects the dress's condition and original value.
What to Do with Wedding Dress After Wedding: A Summary
Deciding what to do with your wedding dress after the wedding is a personal choice that depends on your emotional attachment, available space, and future plans. Whether you choose to preserve, display, repurpose, sell, or donate your wedding dress, make sure to clean and store it properly to maintain its beauty and value. By following this guide, you can ensure that your wedding dress continues to be a cherished symbol of your special day, even after the wedding is over.
