Jason Masters

So you’ve said “I do” and now the excitement of your big day is over, but there is still one key item to tend to: your gown.

Some brides are sentimental and dream of their future daughter wearing the gown, while others may decide to sell the dress to get back some of their hard-earned cash. Either way, no one wants to see a beautifully designed gown yellowed, permanently creased or worse—molded.

Wedding gown cleaning and preservation is very important, but you already know that, seeing as this is one of our most-asked questions. Our advice? Call your cleaners.

 

How it works:

Many dry cleaners offer gown cleaning and preservation services, although it takes time. Sometimes cleaning can take between two and three weeks due to the adequate drying time needed. If you time it right, you can even have the gown dropped off after the wedding and pick it up once you have returned home from your honeymoon.

Cleaning starts as low as $40 at some cleaners, but to have your gown both cleaned and preserved can run between $100 - $200. Preservation itself can be done in many forms, the organic method being arguably the most popular type of preservation in today’s eco-friendly society. In this scenario, all-natural processes and treatments are used, and the garment remains odor-free and even safe for skin in the event of future wear. All gowns are boxed with a display window for viewing, and while it is sealed, you can take the garment out of the box to touch, admire or to try-on again!

So without further ado, here’s a list of recommended local businesses offering these services:

  • Hangers Cleaners - 6 locations in Little Rock  
  • Oak Forest Cleaners - 2 locations in Little Rock
  • Superior Cleaners - Hot Springs
  • Classic Cleaners - Conway, Jonesboro, Bentonville
  • Linda’s Classy Cleaners - Camden
  • Alma Cleaners - Alma
  • Elite Cleaners - Fayetteville

 

From the experts:

If you’re looking for serious preservation, many Arkansas bridal boutiques recommend the family-owned Wedding Gown Preservation Company in New York, which has been in business for over 100 years. Using the organic method, three additional accessory items can also be preserved with the dress at no additional charge, and the company even offers personalized services that can include a photo on the box or special script chosen by the bride. (Perk: Brides purchasing from The Bridal Cottage in North Little Rock receive a $25 gift certificate to go toward preservation!)

 

Do you have a secret go-to for wedding gown preservation? Tell us in the comments below!