Dear The Bridal Guru,

I bought the perfect wedding dress. My mother and I planned the perfect wedding. Everything was ready to go. Two weeks before the wedding, my fiancé called off the wedding. We canceled everything. In doing so, we lost all our deposits, although some wedding vendors said we could use this later if we got back together or I met someone new. But, there's the gown that I had altered, but never wore. I went to the gown shop to see if I could return the gown, but they said I could not. What am I to do with this gown now?

Nearly Wed

Dear Nearly Wed,

My heart is breaking for you. Most people don't realize the investment these bridal boutiques make in ordering these gowns. Then to have it altered, too; it's very hard to find someone that can wear your exact gown. Hopefully, you understand why bridal gown shops cannot take your gown back. All gowns are, more or less, a special order. They are a one of a kind made to your measurements. What you can do is try and sell the gown. You may know of someone that is getting married and this gown might work for them at a discounted price. There may be a consignment store that can sell your gown. You might mention on social media and show a photograph of your gown. Who knows. Someone may know someone who knows someone and so on. I wish I could help you more. Please note, bridal boutiques are businesses. It's rare that this happens, but, unfortunately for you, your gown is something that cannot be returned. This is not an easy situation, I know. You will find someone that will love your gown just like you did. You will meet the man of your dreams who will love and respect you. You will have the wedding you always envisioned. And you will give thanks to God for all this.

The Bridal Guru

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