If you want your dress to last until your daughter grows up or to remain in perfect condition for sentimental reasons, take these protective measures:
Have your dress and veil cared for by a professional dry cleaner immediately after the wedding. Point out where any sugar-based beverages spilled on the dress---it may be invisible later, but can stain later.
Ask the dry cleaner to test the beads and trim with solvent before cleaning. Some dresses can't be dry-cleaned if beads are glued on; the glue may dissolve during the cleaning process, and you cold lose all of the decoration.
Remove protective shields and bra inserts because they can cause staining over time.
Have your dress hand-pressed and wrapped in an acid and linen-free tissue paper. Store it in a box that's free of acid. Use the acid and linen-free tissue paper to protect against creases and to puff up sleeves and bodice. Avoid "vacuum-packed" boxes and cellophane windows what keep air from circulating and can discolor fabric. Never wrap it in plastic.
Beverly Harris Weddings & Events
(310) 487-9698
