I want to remind all Portland and Vancouver Brides about an incredible event put on every year by an organization called Brides Against Breast Cancer. At this event you can search through thousands of gowns. Gowns are priced between $99 and $799. There is also an enormous selection of veils, in all lengths. More importantly, the proceeds from this nationwide traveling dress sale benefit the Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation, which grants wishes to those battling metastatic breast cancer.
I can tell you from experience this is a fun event. I purchased my bridal gown in October of 2007 at this sale. It was a Christos gown made of ivory taffeta and there is no way I could have afforded it had I purchased it new from a bridal salon. I tried it on, loved it. I looked at the label, thought about how much it would cost full price, and sealed the deal. My gown cost $650. My mom and I selected the perfect veil for $35. However, I tried on equally wonderful gowns that were between $100-250 as well. This tells you, there is enormous selection!
The event is free and runs from October 21st-25th at the Canyon Place Mall in Beaverton. I suggest taking a morning or afternoon off and attending during the week. As you can guess, Saturday will be packed. If you are inclined, there is a special “Power Hour” of shopping on Tuesday, October 20th from 4pm-6pm which costs $20 per attendee.
Bring your mom, your sister, or a friend. As you may already know, wedding gowns can be quite heavy. You may want an extra body to help you in and out of your dress too.
Elizabeth Ann’s Tips for BABC Success
- Don’t be Shy. You will be trying on gowns in a large curtained off room, with all the other brides, their sisters, friends, and moms. No guys allowed. But, you may want to leave the string bikini underwear at home.
- Power Underwear. It is a good idea to wear flesh-colored undergarments, such as Spanx, which may help you slide in and zip up those gowns with ease.
- Volunteers. There will be several volunteers at the event. Let them take the dresses you don’t like back outside quickly to re-rack them for other brides.
- Alterations. BABC usually allows a few tried and true alteration experts to peruse the room and offer advice. They can be extremely helpful in showing you how your dress will fit once it’s properly altered to your figure.
- No Pressure. Don’t worry if you don’t find something you want to purchase, just have fun and look at it as an opportunity to discover styles you like.
I encourage you to check out this event. I will be volunteering on Friday and Saturday morning. I look forward to seeing some gorgeous gowns on equally gorgeous ladies!
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