Ask The Experts: How Much Does It Cost to Preserve a Wedding Dress?

When you say “I do,” you’re not just getting married; you’re making memories you’ll want to keep forever. One big part of that special day is your wedding dress. It’s probably one of the most beautiful dresses you’ll ever wear, so it makes sense that you’d want to keep it looking as good as new for years to come. But have you ever wondered how much it costs to preserve your wedding dress?

This article explores the costs involved in preserving a wedding dress. We’ll also share wedding dress preservation tips to ensure the dress looks as good as the day you wore it.

The Cost of Preserving a Wedding Dress

photo by Cramart’s Photography – full shoot here 

Preserving your wedding dress is a special way to keep the memories of your big day alive. But how much does it cost to make sure your dress stays as beautiful as the moment you said “I do”?

You can expect to pay between $250 (£200) and $700 (£560) to preserve your wedding dress. However, consider that prices can go as high as $1,000, (£800) depending on two primary factors.
According to the wedding dress experts at Sherri Hill, the cost of preservation increases if your dress has a lot of intricate details like lace, beads, or multiple layers. The second factor is where you live. You can expect to pay more if you live in a big city or a high-cost area.

photo by  Paul Fuller – full wedding here 

But don’t let the cost scare you away. Think about it. Preserving a dress involves a lot of careful work. Professionals clean it, fix any damage, and then pack it in a way that keeps it safe from dirt and moisture. They put it in a special box or wrap it in fabric that prevents discoloration.

You also spent a good amount of time choosing the perfect one among the hundreds of wedding dresses you saw for your big day. Preserving it is a way to ensure it stays as beautiful as it was when you first wore it. Knowing how much it might cost can help you budget and plan ahead.

photo by Taylor Denton Photography – full shoot here

Wedding Dress Preservation Process

Before we discuss the wedding dress preservation process, it’s crucial to emphasize that this job should be left in the capable hands of professionals. A DIY attempt can lead to irreversible damage.

Examination and Assessment

First, experts closely inspect your dress. They look for stains, damages, and anything that might need fixing. This helps them determine what needs to be done to keep your dress in great shape.

Cleaning and Stain Treatment

The first step is cleaning your dress. This isn’t your regular washing machine job; it’s a delicate process. Experts use special solutions and techniques to remove both visible and invisible stains. Remember that even stains you can’t see now can become more noticeable over time if not properly cleaned.

Repairs

After cleaning, your dress gets a close look. Any loose threads, missing buttons, or small damages are carefully fixed.

Preservation Packaging

Once your dress is clean and repaired, it’s wrapped up carefully. It’s usually placed in a special acid-free preservation box or a breathable garment bag. These protect your dress from dust, light, and moisture, which can harm the fabric over time.
The preservation box or bag is meant to be stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid the attic or basement, as extreme temperatures and dampness can harm the fabric.

photo by Tara Gillen Photography – full shoot here

Final Thoughts on Preserving a Wedding Dress

• Preserving your wedding dress has several benefits. It allows you to cherish the memories of your special day, pass it down to your kids as a family heirloom, and reduce your environmental footprint by reusing a beautiful gown.
• The cost of preserving your dress can vary, usually between $250 and $700, but it can even go up to $1,000 if your dress has intricate details or if you live in a costly area. However, it’s important to remember that this cost reflects the meticulous care and expertise involved in keeping your dress looking its best. It’s a small price to pay for the memories and sentimental value it holds.
• The wedding dress preservation process is a job best left to professionals. They carefully examine and assess your dress, clean it with special techniques, make any necessary repairs, and then package it in an acid-free preservation box or breathable bag.
• Once your dress is professionally preserved, it’s equally important to store it properly. Find a safe spot in your home, away from extreme temperatures and dampness, where your dress can rest peacefully.

PHOTO BY VLADIMIR SIMONOV – FULL POST HERE

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