So since Valentine’s Day is on the horizon, I invited Winnipeg/Toronto wedding and event planner Alli of Alli Mae Fresh Events to contribute a post on an exciting opportunity for former brides to make a difference after their wedding day. Through a simple wedding dress donation, former brides are giving their dresses a new home for a worthy cause.

Hi A Pop of Colour readers! I’m so excited to take over the blog today to discuss my passion project – Joy And Back. I work closely with brides across Toronto and Winnipeg to style and coordinate their dream weddings. It’s a privilege to be a wedding planner and get the opportunity to be a part of such an incredible milestone between two people. In my line of work I often see couples working with a limited ‘apparel’ budget because weddings are just so darn expensive. Most of my clients really struggle with the high costs associated with a wedding and brides don’t realize how much their dress will cost until they start shopping.

Inspired by a similar initiative already present in a few markets, Joy And Back is a shopping option for couples on a budget or those looking to make a difference. Former brides donate their wedding dresses and accessories, the items are re-sold at a fraction of their original retail value and all profits are donated to local cancer support and research initiatives. Through Joy And Back a wedding dress becomes more than just a dress to wear once; it becomes a financial, environmental and social way for a couple to contribute on their wedding day, simply by buying (and hopefully) re-donating their dress.

Joy And Back is dedicated to the memory of family and friends who have passed away from or have been diagnosed with cancer. It also celebrates the survivors and allows brides to share their stories and pass on a dress that would otherwise go unused after its first wear. It’s a win-win for all!

Brides have been super responsive to this initiative, but in order to keep it going (and growing), I am eager for beautiful wedding dresses and accessories that are eight years old or less. These donations can make a big impact. One dress that is sold and donated two to three times can result in thousands of dollars in donations for family affected by a cancer diagnosis. Consider donating your wedding dress if it’s taking up room in your closet!

For more information on how you can donate your dress, please visit my website http://allimae.com/joy-and-back/.

Please note this is a guest post. I received no compensation for this post, I just think it’s an awesome initiative and I wanted to help spread the word!