By ANEEKA SIMONIS
MORE often than not, a woman’s bridal gown will hang dormant in her wardrobe as a lasting reminder of her marriage vows.
But some women are choosing to share their sentimental dress by donating it to parents left devastated with the loss of their infant child.
Lang Lang District Funeral Service Director Dianne Comber is one nation-wide volunteer who is transforming wedding gowns into tiny dresses or romper suits for pre-term or stillborn babies.
“A lot of love and a lot of tears go into it,” Dianne said.
“As I sew or knit these suits, I feel as though I am helping the mother edge toward her last moment holding her little angel. I can just feel the emotion she must be feeling as she dresses her baby.”
Ms Comber said she was blown away by the generosity of former brides across the shire who had gifted their special dress to families as they say their final goodbye.
“These families are not expecting to have to organise a funeral for their baby.
“Some of these babies are so tiny that parents would never be able to get something made up quickly that is suitable.
“It’s wonderful what volunteers do for families in a state of grief,” she said.
Outfits are made for infants delivered at 14 weeks up to full-term and can be designed and delivered to specific families across Australia under the direction of Angel Gowns.
“From one wedding dress with the three and a half metre train, I was able to make 41 bonnets, 20 gowns, four romper suits, four wraps for babies too delicate to dress and 12 keepsakes for the parents to keep,” she said.
Pakenham funeral and marriage celebrant Alison Eno was touched by Dianne’s contribution to grieving families and is now collecting wedding dresses for the Angel Gowns group.
“It is such a beautiful gift,” she said.
Bridal gowns can be donated to the Lang Lang District Funeral Service or by contacting Alison in Pakenham at alison@civilceremonies.com.au.
