Your wedding dress is more than just a piece of clothing; it holds immense sentimental value and cherished memories from your special day! Preserving and storing your wedding dress properly ensures that it remains in pristine condition for years to come, allowing you to pass it down as an heirloom or simply keep it as a treasured memento. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to preserve and store your wedding dress, ensuring its longevity and preservation.
Cleaning:
Before storing your wedding dress, it's crucial to have it professionally cleaned. Even if your dress appears clean, invisible stains such as perspiration, makeup, or dirt may be present. Seek a reputable wedding dress preservation specialist or cleaner experienced in handling delicate fabrics. Be sure to mention any stains or spots you're aware of to ensure they are effectively treated. Cleaning your dress will prevent discoloration and the setting in of stains over time!
Timing is Key:
Arrange for your wedding dress cleaning as soon as possible after the wedding. The longer stains and dirt sit on the fabric, the more challenging they become to remove. By addressing this promptly, you maximize the chances of restoring your dress to its original state.
Choosing the Right Storage Materials:
When it comes to preserving your wedding dress, the materials you use for storage are crucial. Opt for acid-free, archival-quality boxes, tissue paper, and muslin fabric. These materials will prevent yellowing, discoloration, and fabric deterioration over time. Avoid plastic bags or covers made of synthetic materials, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew or mold growth.
Proper Folding Techniques:
When storing your wedding dress, it's best to fold it properly to avoid putting unnecessary stress on the fabric. Begin by stuffing the bodice and sleeves with acid-free tissue paper to help the dress maintain its shape. Layer more tissue paper between each fold to cushion and protect the fabric. Ensure that the folds are large enough to avoid excessive creasing while still fitting comfortably within the storage box.
Choosing an Appropriate Storage Space:
Selecting the right location to store your wedding dress is vital. Aim for a cool, dry, and dark area, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity. Basements, attics, and garages are generally not recommended due to their fluctuating temperature and humidity levels. A closet or under-the-bed storage area within the house can be suitable alternatives.
Regular Inspection:
While your wedding dress is safely stored, it's a good practice to periodically inspect it. Open the storage box and examine the dress for any signs of discoloration, mold, or insects. If you notice any issues, consult a professional preservationist to address the problem promptly.
Preserving and storing your wedding dress allows you to maintain its beauty and sentimental value for years to come. By following these essential steps, you can ensure that your dress remains in excellent condition, ready to be admired and cherished by future generations. Proper cleaning, suitable storage materials, folding techniques, and an appropriate storage space are key to preserving the fabric, color, and overall integrity of your wedding dress. With a little care and attention, your dress will continue to evoke memories of your special day for many years ahead.
If you prefer to entrust the preservation of your wedding dress to professionals, Mariella Creations offers exceptional preservation services to ensure your gown receives the utmost care. With a legacy spanning over a century since 1913, we have established ourselves as experts in the industry. Our preservation service involves hand-dipping and cleaning your gown rather than relying on machines, ensuring a meticulous and personalized approach.
We offer convenient kits for you to send us your wedding gown for preservation. The process typically takes approximately 3-4 weeks, during which we carefully clean, preserve, and store your gown in an acid-free, archival-quality box. Once the preservation is complete, we will ship your gown directly to your house, ensuring its safe and secure arrival!
By choosing Mariella Creations' preservation services, you can trust that your cherished wedding dress will receive the utmost care, ensuring its longevity and pristine condition for generations to come!