How to Sell or Donate Your Wedding Dress After the Wedding
Your wedding dress holds precious memories, but after the big day, you may find yourself wondering what to do with it. Whether you want to sell it and recoup some costs or donate it to a meaningful cause, there are several ways to give your gown a second life. Here’s how:
Selling Your Wedding Dress
1. Clean and Preserve It
Before selling your dress, have it professionally cleaned to remove any stains or dirt from the wedding day. A well-preserved gown will increase its resale value and attract more buyers.
2. Determine Its Value
Research similar dresses online to get an idea of your dress’s market value. Factors like brand, condition, and demand will affect pricing. Designer dresses in pristine condition can fetch higher prices.
3. Choose the Right Platform
There are several websites and local options for selling your wedding dress:
Online Marketplaces: Stillwhite, PreOwnedWeddingDresses, and Nearly Newlywed are great platforms tailored to bridal resale.
Social Media & Local Groups: Facebook Marketplace, bridal forums, and wedding consignment shops are other excellent options.
4. Take High-Quality Photos
Great photos can make or break a sale. Showcase your dress with clear, well-lit images from multiple angles. If possible, include professional wedding photos of you wearing it.
5. Be Honest in Your Description
List key details like designer, size, alterations, and any minor flaws. Transparency builds trust and helps you find the right buyer faster.
Donating Your Wedding Dress
If selling isn’t your style, consider donating your gown to a meaningful cause. Many organizations accept wedding dresses to help those in need.
1. Bridal Charities
Brides Across America – Provides free wedding dresses to military and first responder brides.
Wish Upon a Wedding – Supports brides facing serious illness by offering donated gowns.
2. Local Nonprofits & Churches
Many thrift stores, churches, and shelters accept wedding dresses to help low-income brides find affordable options.
3. Angel Gown Programs
Organizations like The Angel Gown Program repurpose wedding dresses into burial gowns for infants who have passed away, providing comfort to grieving families.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to sell or donate your wedding dress, you’ll be giving it a new purpose beyond your wedding day. Selling allows another bride to cherish your gown while donating can make a meaningful impact on someone’s life. Whichever option you choose, your dress will continue to bring joy and love to others.