24 Mar Brides Camp Out Overnight to Save on Their Dream Dress

The Wedding Gala is Goodwill’s largest event of the year. It’s also one of the most exciting. This year was no different. The first bride showed up nearly 13 hours before the sale even began.

Not only had brides come early, but some had traveled hundreds of miles to attend Goodwill’s 5^th Annual Wedding Gala. Brides on a budget came from Florida, Illinois, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky and all across Tennessee for a chance to find their dream dress at a deeply discounted price.

This year’s sale featured more than 1,500 brand new designer dresses that were donated by area bridal boutiques. More than 700 of those were wedding gowns worth as much as $6,000, all priced under $400. All other dresses including prom, bridesmaid, flower girl and mother’s dresses were priced under $30.

When the doors opened at 6 a.m. on March 15, more than 500 people were lined up outside the store. The wait definitely paid off. The first four brides in line all found their dream wedding gown.

When the four-hour sale ended, more than 500 dresses had been purchased. By close of business Sunday, 699 dresses had been sold. A large assortment of jewelry, veils, belts, shoes and other accessories were also purchased.

It is a special moment when a bride finds that perfect dress. It’s even more special when you think about how those purchases benefit Goodwill’s mission. What a huge day for all of those brides on a budget, and for Goodwill.