Ideas for Keepsakes for a Wedding Dress

Consider dying a small part of your dress blue to be given to future generations of brides.

Perhaps you spent months looking for the perfect wedding dress. Or maybe your dress is a family heirloom that has been meticulously stored for generations of brides. Regardless of how you came upon your dress, it is only worn a few short hours. For brides looking for alternatives to storage, here are a few ideas to turn your dress into a living keepsake.

Baptism Gown

The train or skirt of many bridal dresses can easily be transformed into a Christening gown for couples who plan on adding children to their family. While some brides are well skilled with a needle and thread, many brides may need to find a trusted seamstress to help with this process. The person who helped tailor the wedding gown can be an excellent resource when finding qualified professionals.

Evening Dress

While you cannot wear the entire dress again, there might be a trim, ribbon or bow that can be used in a new evening dress. As with the baptismal gown, it is best to consult with a professional seamstress or dress designer as to appropriate fabrics and designs that will best highlight your selection. Perhaps this dress could be saved for a special occasion, like a wedding anniversary.

Lockets

Lockets have been treasured jewelry-box items for generations. Many women place pictures of family or lockets of hair inside and wear the piece close to the heart. This is also a wonderful storage place for a piece of your wedding dress. Speak with your photographer to see if a wedding picture can be scaled to fit inside the locket as well.

Teddy Bears

Consider having part of your dress made into a teddy bear that can stay in a bedroom or be given as a special gift to a child. Depending upon the amount of material in a dress and desired size of the bear, more than one could be made. Part of the groom's tuxedo, tie or vest could also become part of the bear. Local toy-makers or seamstresses could help design and construct a bear.

References

• Threads: Gorgeous Wedding Gowns Transformed to Heirloom Christening Gowns
• Tammy Bears