How to Get Perfect Wedding Dress Cleaning From Professionals

Your wedding; that wonderful sweeping romantic event that starts your life down the path of discovery of your eternal love with your new husband.

And let's face it; you, as the bride, were the spectacular centre of attention and beauty at that event. Indeed, weddings are designed to accentuate the bride and yours did exactly that, didn't it?

Why Clean And Preserve Your Wedding Dress?

Of course, a huge part of accentuating your beauty was your wedding dress. This is now one of the most important gowns in your life; loaded with memories, memories of the search for it, the trying of many until you found the perfect one you fell in love with, the memories of the delightful day of the wedding and the fun had by all at the reception after it.

And now you want to preserve those memories forever.

Why do it now?

So now that happy day is over and relegated to your storehouse of wonderful memories.

After the excitement and stress of the wedding and all things leading up to it, most brides just want to kick back and relax a bit. They are in honeymoon mode!

Although the best intentions are to deal with the cleaning of them very soon, over half of all wedding gowns suffer the same fate at this time. They are simply folded and stuffed back into the box from whence they came. Only this time, it is not the brilliantly clean and crisp garment it was when it came out. Stains both visible and invisible remain lurking on the fabric to do their damaging work. About 4 to 5 months later, the bride or mother of the bride finally may decide to do something about it.

However, damage can already be present from these stains after only a few months. Yellowing and browning can occur within just a couple months. Stains can also migrate to other places on the garment. After the wedding, immediate attention to the garment is of utmost importance.

With all the details preparing for the wedding and reception, it would be a shame to cut this level of attention to details short in relation to your beautiful wedding dress.

You wouldn't want to inspect your dress months or years down the road only to find it is too late to do anything about its deterioration.

The Grit And Stains Assaulting Your Dress

With all the beauty and grace at your wedding, there was grit and dirt there too as well, wasn't there? How could there not be? It is almost a certainty that your matrimonial dress was assaulted and violated by some foreign grime.

In and out of the car (or limousine), the floor length hemline of your gown may be caught in the door, picking up grease! If it is left sticking out of the door during the trip, then heaven knows what you picked up in terms of road dirt. Simply walking across lawns and parking lots, dirt and grass stains may be ground into your hemline as well. And this can happen just during the wedding photographs!

Then, of course, there is the reception.

Eating, drinking, dancing, talking and bumping into people, sober and otherwise. Of course, this is the occasion of yours and your husband's nuptials where you are the centre of the celebration and everyone wants to have a piece of your attention! Your friends and loved ones close to you wanting to touch, grab, pull and tug you and your gown. And who knows what your beautiful bridal attire picked up in the washroom? It is inevitable; some undesirable stain is going to be slopped, ground or otherwise transferred onto your bridal gown.

There will be the visible grime of course; grease, road filth, grass stains, dinner and dessert blotches, colourful drink splashes, and maybe even some mysterious makeup intrusion.

Then there is the invisible and insidious soiling; champagne, sugars and colourless alcohol. Even your own body can betray you with perspiration which can introduce acids, body oils, salts, ammonia, enzymes and bacteria to the fabric of your gorgeous gown. These stains are all unseen until they yellow after a time.

What's more is all of these stains can be transferred to other parts of your garment if left alone. It is absolutely best to address the cleaning and preservation of your wedding dress immediately.

Other Dress Damage

Of course physical damage can occur as well such as stepping on the garment hemline, by both you and others. Dancing, bending and tugging will stretch and stress the seams in your waist, bustle, sleeves and neckline. Your delicate endowments such as lace, embroidery and beading on your matrimonial dress, sequins, belts, sashes and jackets can easily be damaged by the events of the day.

A Quick List Of Troubles For Your Wedding Dress:

- food, drink and make-up smudges and stains

- ground in dirt

- grass stains

- yellowing and browning

- oxidation

- mold

- mildew

- ripped and stretched seams

- permanent and unwanted creasing

- light

- dust

- bad odour

So what do you do to keep these undesirables from damaging your wedding gown?

Here Are 9 Easy Tips You Can Do On Your Own (after cleaned by a Professional):

1. Don't store your dress in a plastic bag including dry cleaning bags and the bag your dress came in when your purchased it. Good only for transport or short term storage, the plastic in these bags will exude chemical fumes that can damage your dress over a period of time.

2. Store your dress in a box with tissue; both the box and the tissue completely acid-free. Don't be fooled by boxes promoted as acid-free, when all they have is an acid-free coating.

3. Seal the box with tape. This can help prevent unwanted fingers from handling your dress, curious pet investigations and bugs and other pests from making themselves at home in your matrimonial gown.

4. Although promoted by some cleaners, do not use a vacuum sealed bag.

5. Once cleaned and preserved, store your gown in a cool dry dark place. Your basement can be damp and will promote the growth of mold and mildew. Your attic can get very hot and promote yellowing. The ultraviolet in sunlight can accelerate the deterioration of the delicate fabrics in your wedding dress.

6. If you are storing your dress long-term on a hanger, be sure to sew some straps to the waistline to reduce stress and stretching on the shoulder straps. Again, no plastic. To use what's called a muslin covering or white sheet is the best.

7. Prevent wrinkling in the bodice by stuffing it with acid-free tissue paper.

8. Take your garment out from time to time to inspect it for stains that may appear over time. This way you can address them immediately before they cause irreparable damage.

9. Be generous with tissue when packing the dress to prevent permanent and unwanted creases from occurring.

What Process Does a Qualified Wedding Dress Cleaner Use On Your Dress?

Every dress is different; from a simple dress to a complicated designer full length wedding gown. The design, construction, and the use of various fabrics and accoutrements sewn, weaved and otherwise attached to the ensemble is all important in the determination of a proper cleaning and preservation plan.

Of course, the knowledge of all visible and invisible stains and how to remove them is absolutely important as well.

Inspection

Every dress should be individually inspected by the cleaner, preferably with you or someone you trust in attendance. Your intimate knowledge of the dress and of the accidents resulting in the stains and other damage is paramount to getting the job done right.

A thorough investigation of the entire garment is essential to identify the stains both visible and unseen. A black light should be used to identify the invisible ones.

The fabrics and the various stains in them will determine the most precise treatment to be used on your dress.

The hem should be inspected for dirt and grass stains.

The gown should be inspected for tears and other damage. In addition to recognizing these for repair considerations, this inspection protects both the bride and the cleaners. Both you and the wedding dress cleaners will be aware of all damage to the gown before the cleaning begins.

It is critical as well that you make sure you are not using a cleaner that is a mass-production wedding dress cleaner. Your gown is unique and should not be involved in an assembly line affair.

Spot Treatment

Once you have selected the best wedding dress cleaner for the cleaning and preservation of your family heirloom, the first thing they should do is approach the stains that require special attention with the appropriate cleansing agents. The hemline should be soaked to deal with its stains. The sugar, salt and acid stains in the garment should be hand-cleaned. Inspections between the cleanings to ensure the removal of the stains is critical and may have to be repeated several times.

Cleaning

Whether your gown will be dry cleaned or wet washed will be determined by its fabric content. Some gowns are entirely made up of silk; some entirely of polyester or other materials. Many are made up of a combination of a couple or several of them! Even though most dresses have cleaning labels, they are not to be trusted because sometimes they are simply wrong. The cleaner should test all fabrics to ensure proper treatment.

Like the spot treatment, there should be an inspection done post-cleaning to ensure as perfect as job possible.

Your Inspection

Before final packaging of it, you should be invited to inspect the dress yourself. This way you can see that the cleaning and preservation was completed to your standards. This also eliminates surprises down the road when you unpack your garment and find something wrong. If there are further touch-ups to be done, it is easier to leave your dress there, than to bring back to the cleaner for corrections.

Wedding Dress Preservation

Once you have made the final approval, then your gown should be layered with the acid-free tissue. It should then be packed into an acid-free box. There varying boxes at varying prices for your pleasure.

This is the preservation part of this process and it should be guaranteed for many years by the wedding dress cleaner.

Stepping Into the Unknown With Trust

Humans, by nature, want to be in control. That's why when we approach the edge of the unknown, we prefer to have things all planned out so that we can step into it with confidence and eager anticipation. Yet the very essence of life is change and mystery, and we are often quite suddenly shoved into the unknown despite our carefully laid plans.

Whether pleasant as an exciting new job, or difficult as a sudden illness, we are always being guided by our souls to grow and surrender into life, and to trust even when we don't know where we're headed or what we may find along the way.

Our ability to handle unexpected change is a refection of the deep soul work we have done. Our souls reside in the present moment, unconcerned with known or unknown. Connected to the Source, they aren't attached to a certain way of being in the world, or a certain world at all. If we spend time daily in mediation and quiet, when our external world shifts we have a raft to support us.

If we avoid the quiet place within, then, when our life gets rocked, we panic in fear of being drowned by the waves of life. This is the fear of the ego, trying to cling desperately to the familiar, the idea of who we are and how we move through the world. Sometimes it takes an event or situation that shatters our world to guide us to a deeper sense of surrender and soulful being.

I spoke recently with a friend named Grace who endured a terrible car accident that crushed the left side of her body, took away her ability to speak, and put her in a coma for three months. Four years later, having recovered somewhat from the accident, I asked her what the gift of that experience was. She said, "Well Liah, pretty much everything can be taken away from you. But if you have a relationship with God, and you know how much you are loved, then you can deal with the rest."

She went on to say that although she lost her partner, her job, and her ability to walk and speak as she once did, she felt that now she was living a life that was "a living expression of love" and her life was an offering of love. I could feel the joy in her voice and the deep and sincere gratitude to be alive, even though her physical body was compromised.

The unknown slammed into her life while she was crossing the street on a sunny day. She did not check out of life and become depressed and afraid. She called upon her spirit and the fellowship of her spiritual community to help her navigate the unknown land of being disabled and dependent. Though the journey was arduous, she is presently pain-free, happy, and inspiring others with her story of hope and love.

Whatever challenge you are facing today, know that deep within your being a prayer is being answered. Grace had always wanted to be a living example of Gods' love and now she is. This is an intrinsically loving universe. Let go into the unknown and trust that you are being divinely guided and loved.

Women's Health Clinics: Dignified and Personal Experiences

Women's health is a peculiar thing. While each woman is very unique and has her own ideas of what is and is not right for her body, there is a lot of talk politically and religiously speaking about what a woman should and should not do with her body. While it seems that everyone, everywhere wants to chime in about these things, it is still well within the rights of a woman to have her health be the personalized and dignified health experience that it should be. Luckily, there are women's health clinics that will provide all of the service, information and education that is needed when making potentially life changing decisions.

When dealing with abortion, women need a health clinic experience that isn't just about collecting a payment and getting in and out as quickly as possible. Instead, these experiences start with counseling. The most successful women's health clinics treat the women with respect. They talk to the women about what they are thinking and feeling. Abortion is an emotional decision for most women, so being in a caring environment with someone who knows who they are talking about and what they are doing, can provide the woman with a lot of consolation and information that they are doing the best thing for themselves.

Women can also be educated about the difference between surgical and non surgical abortions. Pregnancies can be terminated in both ways, but there are different reasons and different requirements in terms of timing that need to be considered. While being educated in counseling, the woman can learn about the different methods of termination, so she knows what her options may be, and what each option entails. The level of education and support is important, so that a woman knows exactly what is happening with her body and she'll also know what her options are and why those options are the best for her particular situation.

Women who receive all of this information in a constructive and supportive setting are more likely to end up making the decision that is right for them. There is no pressure, just straight forward information that allows them to make decisions based not just on emotion or information that they have heard from a friend or family member, so they are able to come to a conclusion that will give them the most peace of mind.

Women's clinics that can provide this well rounded, respectful and education are out there and will help women from all walks of life. Clinics are there to provide health services to women who need them, and to educate them about their bodies so that they can remain as healthy as possible, and so they can choose to carry children to term, if they want, that will be happy and healthy. An educated women is always a happier, healthier woman, and they are judgment free, allowing a woman to get the information she needs, as well as the services she needs to live the life she has envisioned for herself.

My Stay-At-Home Wife Has It Harder Than I Do

A strong marriage is contingent on sharing the workload--not just in the house but everywhere. This past summer I worked as an intern at Google and had a long commute. I left at the crack of dawn most mornings and returned home around 7pm.

My wife, Rachel, on the other hand, is a stay-at-home mom. She took care of our 18-month-old each day. I think much of the "Lean In" thinking today would suggest Rachel perhaps had opted out of the workplace too young and taken an easier route. Those people have never stayed home with a toddler all day.. everyday.

Last month, I gave Rachel a weekend completely off parenting duties by going out of town with Jude. In those days, unsupported by any other caregiver, my son nearly broke me. He's a fantastic kid, but he does get cranky, have trouble sleeping and can be as willful as any other 18-month-old. I was exhausted, and the experience gave me a newfound respect for all stay-at-home moms, and especially single parents (I don't know how you do it!).

My point is that this summer when I was working, Rachel had it WAY, WAY harder than me. Too many working dads (and working moms, for that matter) don't fully appreciate the sheer exhaustion of watching a cranky child (let alone multiple children) day in and day out.

Conventional wisdom suggests my wife should be grateful to me for slaving long days at the office and permitting her to relax at home. We've largely internalized the 1950s portrait of a husband coming home to be greeted by his adoring wife and a roasted chicken dinner as something ideal and fair--if not something we routinely practice.

When I come home, I strive to give my wife the chance to put her feet up. Cleaning up diapers, preparing meals, cleaning and responding to the beck and call of our son is a full-time job with no coffee breaks or pauses to read the news or check email.

A large amount of hostility also comes from moms working outside the home. Being a parent is challenging enough without us disparaging each other. When husbands and our society in general better value the work stay-at-home-moms do, we are all better off. That respect helps improve relationships, makes the parenting work feel a little easier, facilitates more equitable household divisions of labor, and accords the proper level of appreciation to motherhood.

Choosing the Ideal Wedding Shoes

The selection of bridal shoes may not be on the top of your list of priorities when it comes to planning your big day. However, it is absolutely essential to spend time searching for a comfortable pair that also complements your gown. You'll find your chosen wedding dress designers will most likely be more than happy to provide some recommendations and these tips below might also help.

Select a Fabric

Many wedding dress designers will advise you to choose shoes made from raw silk or satin. That's because these same materials are likely to be used in the creation of your gown. However, you might also think about buying shoes made from crepe or matt satin as a suitable choice. A contrast such as this can also act as a feature of the outfit.

Consider the Colour

Those who take the traditional approach will undoubtedly be keen to find shoes in the same colour as the bridal gown. However, if you find the perfect pair in a contrasting colour, you might choose to have them dyed to match. You can even choose silver or gold shoes to match your accessories.

Opt for Comfort Over Style

You might well have set your heart on a pair of sleek and stylish high-heeled shoes. However, it would be sensible to try them out first so you are assured of being comfortable on your big day. If you're really worried about the prospect of ending up as a princess with blisters, it may be advisable to make a more conservative choice. You might enjoy ultimate comfort in a pair of satin slippers, or even a pair of exquisitely decorated flip-flops for a beach ceremony.

Think About the Weather

If you're planning a winter wedding you'll need to choose the footwear accordingly. Even if you opt for style over warmth for the ceremony, a pair of fake fur boots can see you through the rest of the reception if needs be - and add to the fairy-tale of a winter wedding. Alternatively for a midsummer wedding you might choose a pair of sparkly sandals or flip flops as mentioned above. Most wedding dress designers will be able to provide information about the seasonal trends.

Find Shoes to Suit Your Budget

It's worth bearing in mind there is a great deal of variation in the price of bridal shoes. It might be possible to find a discounted pair at the local shoe sellers, or alternatively you could head online and search for a pair of luxury Swarovski crystal encrusted shoes. You may even choose to enlist the help of wedding dress designers for a custom made pair.

Fashion Tips for an Apple-Shaped Body to Make You Look Fabulous

Ah, the amazing and beautiful apple-shaped body - how can you tell that you have one? Well, typically, an apple-shaped body consists of a rounded tummy (which is ever-so-beautiful!) and a bigger bust. While this shape is amazing, it's also a little hard to dress, as you can find things to fit your stomach and show off your legs, but your bust is a little large. If you've been trying to find fashion tips for an apple-shaped body, look no further! I've got all of the tips you'll ever need to make you look beautiful, no matter how busty you are!

Don't Hide Your Shape

No matter what shape you are, apple, pear or even hourglass, don't ever hide your shape! Instead, flaunt it a little! You should be proud of yourself and how beautiful you are. So that means, don't hide your shape in baggy dresses, in baggy pants and in clothes that don't fit you. Instead, go for boot-cut or straight-legged trousers with a flat front and a wide waist-band. These are the pants that look the best on an apple shape!

Use Structure

By far, one of the best things about your particular body type ladies, is the fact that awesome structured jackets look amazing on you! Pair them with a flowing dress or long skirt and you're a trendsetter! One fashion tip though, avoid double-breasted jackets, as they can actually make you look more bustier than you are and you don't want that!

Vibrant Patterns Look Lovely

Patterns are something that your particular body shape can pull off beautifully! Vibrant patterns will really make you stand out in a crowd and yet will keep your tummy looking amazing. Pairing your vibrant colored top with some lighter colored bottoms is a great way to really give into your shape. Also, if you are wearing a dress, a-line shapes are fantastic for an apple-shape!

Open Necklines Are a Must

Finally, v-neck shapes are a fashion tip that all apple-shaped women should know! Whether it be a wrap dress or a halter, v-necks are something that will show off your goods - while not giving away too much. A side-tie dress is also something that will draw attention away from those bits that you might not be fond of, so keep that in mind when you're choosing a dress!

So girls, these are just a very few of the top fashion tips that will really make your apple-shape look beautiful! Just remember, no matter what shape you are, you are beautiful and you should flaunt your shape! So ladies, what other fashion tips do you have to share with me?

Choose a Bespoke Bridal Gown and Reduce the Stress of the Dress

Many would-be brides find buying a wedding dress stressful, but it doesn't have to be that way if you opt for a bespoke bridal gown instead of buying something ready-made. Indeed, if you find the whole idea of buying a bridal gown enough to make your hair go grey, perhaps it is time to consider the bespoke route. It certainly is a lot less painful.

You can find your own starting point

If you opt for a bespoke bridal gown you are going to get something that is completely unique to you. This means you don't have to choose something off a rack; instead, you can start from whatever area is best for you. You might have a colour or shade in mind, or a particular style you know suits you, or perhaps even want to copy something you saw in a magazine. Whatever it might be, you can start from whatever point or area you have in mind and work forwards.

You don't have to compromise

Compromise is a word you'll have to get used to if you are going to buy a readymade wedding dress. However you can strike this word from your vocabulary if you are going to get a bespoke bridal gown. There should be no limit to the design or nature of the dress you can have in this situation. This means you can consider all the options and the only possible constraint you will have is your budget. However you may even find the financial side of things is not as expensive as you may have thought.

You'll get help from the wedding dress designer

This is perhaps the most exciting part of all. When you decide to go down the bespoke route you will get all the help and assistance you could need from a professional designer. You will be able to talk with them so they can get an understanding of what you require and what your ideal gown for your big day. This is where your samples and pictures will come in handy, and if you can provide some ideas as to what you want, the designer will be able to work with you to arrive at your perfect design. It certainly makes life a lot easier!

As you can see, there are many reasons why opting for a couture wedding dress takes the stress out of buying your wedding attire. A lot of people assume this route is more stressful and costly instead of the other way around, but this certainly isn't the case.