Lyla Dejesus
Wedding dresses are often preserved so that they can be passed down to future generations or worn again at vow renewals or anniversaries. While it is generally safe to open a preserved wedding dress, it is recommended to handle the dress as little as possible as exposure to dust, dirt, and
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What You'll Learn
The cost of wedding dress preservation
The experience of the preservation company, the price of the dress, and the geographic location can also impact the price. Prices tend to be higher in cities with high costs of living. The turnaround time is another factor, as expediting the process may result in additional fees.
On average, wedding dress dry cleaning can cost around $225, but this can increase if additional insurance or rush processing is required. The cost of a full wedding gown preservation service can range from $300 to over $1,000, depending on the company and the specific dress. Some companies offer packages that include cleaning, minor repairs, pressing, steaming, and shipping and handling, which can help save costs. It is important to choose a reputable and experienced company to ensure the best results and avoid irreversible damage to the dress.
It is worth noting that bargain basement wedding gown preservations can be found for as low as $99, but caution should be exercised with these services, as the quality may not be up to par. It is recommended to include the cost of wedding dress preservation in the wedding budget to avoid unexpected expenses after the event.
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The process of preservation
The process of preserving a wedding dress is a special cleaning and packaging process that ensures the garment retains its quality for years to come. It is not as simple as dry cleaning and storing the dress in a box. Wedding dress preservation begins with an experienced specialist's assessment, who creates a unique treatment plan according to the dress fabric, stitching, and details.
Firstly, it is important to get a clear picture of the cleaning process. Wedding dress cleaning and preservation should be done by dry cleaners who specialize in cleaning gowns and use solvents that are gentle and pure enough for a gown. Other solvents used for regular dry cleaning might contain impurities that can leave your wedding dress with a strange smell.
Secondly, the preservation process involves cleaning, treating, and packaging the dress using museum-quality techniques and materials. This process ensures that the dress is protected against aging factors such as light, humidity, and insects. The dress is packaged in acid-free tissue paper and stored in an acid-free, lignin-free box. Lignin is an organic substance found in wood pulp that can damage the material of the gown. The acid-free tissue paper will help protect the fabric of the wedding dress and prevent creases, while the acid-free storage box will provide a breathable environment that maintains the wedding dress's quality.
Finally, the storage location of the wedding dress plays a significant role in preserving it. It should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a closet or a guest room, away from heat sources, excessive moisture, or direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can cause damage and discolouration, causing the gown to turn yellow. It is also important to keep the wedding dress away from any cooking or smoking odours, as they can permeate the fabric over time.
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DIY preservation vs professional preservation
Wedding dress preservation is a special cleaning and packaging process that ensures the garment retains its quality for years to come. While some brides choose to donate, sell, or repurpose their dresses, others prefer to preserve their wedding dresses, especially if they plan to rewear them or pass them on to their children.
DIY Preservation
If you opt for DIY preservation, you should be aware of the risks involved. Wedding dresses are made of delicate fabrics that require special care. At-home preservation methods may not effectively remove visible and invisible stains, such as sweat, dirt, and oils, which can break down fabrics over time, causing staining, yellowing, and even fabric decay. Additionally, DIY preservation may not provide adequate protection against future stains and discolouration.
Professional Preservation
Professional preservation, on the other hand, offers several advantages. Firstly, professionals are trained to spot and treat all types of stains, both visible and invisible. They will create a unique treatment plan based on your dress's fabric, stitching, and details, ensuring effective stain removal and fabric preservation. Secondly, professional preservation companies use specialised techniques and materials, such as acid-free tissue and pH-neutral display chests, to ensure the long-term protection and preservation of your dress.
Professional preservation services also offer peace of mind, as they are experienced in handling delicate fabrics and can provide guarantees for their work. They can ensure your dress is properly assessed, cleaned, repaired, pressed, and safely packaged using archival materials optimised for long-term storage.
While professional preservation may incur additional costs, it is a worthwhile investment to ensure your wedding dress remains in pristine condition for years, decades, or even centuries.
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How to repurpose your wedding dress
Wedding dresses are often preserved so that they can be passed down to future generations or worn again at vow renewals or anniversaries. However, this does not mean that you cannot repurpose your wedding dress. Here are some ways to do so:
Donate or Sell
If you are not too attached to your wedding dress and simply want to get rid of it, consider donating it to a local charity or selling it online. There are organisations that will take donated wedding dresses and repurpose them into burial gowns for infants. You could also sell your dress to a second-hand bridal store, but it is best to do so quickly while the style remains fashionable.
Repurpose
If you are feeling crafty, you could repurpose your wedding dress into something else. For example, you could turn it into a ring bearer pillow, getting-ready robes, lingerie, or cocktail attire.
Pass it Down
If you are planning on having children, you could preserve your wedding dress so that your child has the option to wear it at their wedding. However, be aware that your child may not want to wear it or may have different tastes, so it is best to also give them the option to repurpose it.
Re-wear
If you loved your wedding dress, why not wear it again? You could wear it to a fancy dress party or take it out of the display box to try it on and wear it around the house. If you do decide to re-wear your dress, be sure to get it professionally cleaned and preserved to ensure it stays in good condition.
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How to store your wedding dress
Wedding dresses are often expensive and intricate, so it's important to store them properly to preserve their beauty. Here are some tips to help you store your wedding dress:
Get it Professionally Cleaned:
Before storing your wedding dress, it is recommended to get it professionally cleaned by a trusted bridal dry cleaner. Even if the dress appears clean, there may be dirt, bacteria, or stains that can cause discolouration or damage over time. A professional cleaner will use specialised techniques to ensure your dress is in pristine condition before storage.
Handle with Care:
When handling your dress, always ensure you have clean hands or wear white cotton gloves to prevent any body oils or dirt from transferring onto the fabric. Be gentle and handle the dress as little as possible to avoid stains and creases.
Choose the Right Storage Location:
Avoid storing your wedding dress in an attic or basement, as these areas can be prone to temperature fluctuations and humidity issues. Instead, choose a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area within your primary living space, such as a closet or under your bed. Ensure the location is away from direct sunlight, water damage, and cooking or smoking odours, as these can damage the fabric over time.
Use Appropriate Packaging:
Do not store your wedding dress in an airtight container or plastic dress cover, as these can trap moisture and bacteria. Instead, use a plastic-free cloth garment bag or an acid-free archive box to protect the fabric and allow for proper ventilation.
Regular Inspections:
Even with proper storage, it's important to regularly inspect your wedding dress. Every six months, check the dress for any signs of damage, pests, or discolouration. If necessary, refold the dress to prevent permanent creases and address any issues promptly to maintain its excellent condition.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your wedding dress remains in the best possible condition for years to come, preserving the memories of your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can rewear a preserved wedding dress. Many brides opt to rewear their wedding dresses, especially if they have been well-preserved and stored in a viewing box.
If you have preserved your wedding dress with a professional preservation service, it is likely still in good condition. You can examine the hem of the dress by removing the sealing stickers from the bottom of the Display Chest. Put on the included white gloves to avoid transferring any bodily oils, and carefully check for any yellowing or staining.
If your dress is damaged, you can research wedding dress preservationists with experience dealing with yellowing or discolouration. They will be able to advise on the best course of action to restore your dress.
Store your wedding dress in a cool, dark place away from humidity. Avoid attics or cellars, as these areas are prone to temperature fluctuations and water leaks. Keep your dress in an acid-free archive box to prevent acid transfer, friction, and staining.
Wedding dress preservation ensures your gown retains its beauty and stays in pristine condition for years to come. It is a specialised cleaning and treatment plan that targets specific stains and details on your dress. Preservation also allows you to view your dress without fear of it staining or yellowing over time.
