I completely understand if you don't feel you can part with your gown, but there are so many ways to be a part of the Project and make your contribution. Small things make a big difference... so even if you have miscellany left over from your wedding, I can sell it here and help the kids.

FAQ's

1. We do not tax receipt for gown donations from individuals. In conjunction with my charitable partners, we jointly decided against this. A primary reason is that when I did, I received gowns that were 20+ years old, or mouldy, water damaged over time and unusable. Given CCRA guidelines, the donor was able to assign the value and we had no control over this. Seeing people assign values of $1000 to a mouldy dress and donating only for the purpose of getting a tax receipt and to clean their basement just didn't fit with what we do here. There are so many wonderful donors who have dropped off the most fantastic gowns ... women who believe in what we do, and want to be a part of it. Given that I work voluntarily to run this, and donated all my wedding gear... I feel it's something that has to come from the heart. For those inquiring, 100% of the profit from gown sales goes to the charities... no if's and's or but's.

2. Individual donors... I would be delighted by the donation of your dress, and receive them regularly from all over Canada.  If the gown is sent via Canada Post using the following hints; it shouldn't cost more than about $15-20 to post it, and it will arrive in great shape. While this might sound odd, the best way to send it is to take it out of its 'gown coffin'.  Turn it inside out, and roll it up like a sleeping bag.  Since there will be acid free paper in the packaging it has from your dry cleaner, you can wrap that around it as extra protection.  Then pop it into the smallest box it will fit into.  This is how gowns are sent from one of my major donors. The Brides' Project address is on our Contact Us page. Also, if you'd like to include a note for the new bride, that would be great!  It's optional, but our clients love getting them.  We carefully track and save these notes, and any requests you have (e.g. to be contacted when it sells).  So, feel free to do that if you like.

3. Corporate donors... we issue BUSINESS receipts. We need a statement of the value of the goods at the time of donation. I will issue you a statement of the value for your accountant, and they are written off your inventory at that value. Tax receipting for "gifts in kind" has changed dramatically after fraudulent activity in the past (not here... but in general), and Revenue Canada guidelines have changed. As your accountant will tell you, this allows you a great write-off while making a very meaningful and important contribution. Thank you.

4. Consignment sales. We are no longer accepting consignment items. They do not sell as fast as our customers would like, and we are too worried about damage to the dresses given our style of operation here. Please see Tara at www.gowngoround.com if you are not in a position to donate. She's great.

5. Purchases from TBP are also not eligible for tax receipts. No matter what the organization, when you purchase something from a registered charity or non-profit organization like TBP, you cannot get a tax receipt since you are receiving goods in return. We welcome customers to donate cash directly should they desire a receipt.

At the present time, I am looking for the following:
- Bridal Salon/wedding supply donors for gowns and other wedding paraphernalia
- Hangers suitable for gowns
- Bridal show sponsorships
- Advertising space
- General corporate sponsorships/donations

Every corporate sponsor is featured on the "Our Sponsors" page. I strive to help you grow your business while providing needed products/services for this endeavour.

Please contact me if you would like to take part in making a difference.