I love the Internet, you never know what you might find along the way to somewhere else. I had some ideas and decided to surf the web to confirm my thoughts and stumbled upon the link, Fairytale Brides on a Shoestring.
I quickly learned that Fairytale Brides on a Shoestring is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) bridal shop and the founder, Donna Vaccarezza, is called “Your Budget Fairy Godmother.” Too cute, but there is really a serious mission behind all this beauty!
Donna is a delightful, committed New Yorker who loves to give back. She is an inspiring woman whose careers are as varied as the dresses in her boutique. Her career began as a nurse, and she cultivated her diverse skill sets following these job paths: teacher, therapist, sales professional with Mary Kay Cosmetics, and ultimately working in retail. Donna swears, “The Lord has been directing me, and all these wonderful experiences brought me to where I am today.”
The Fairytale Brides on a Shoestring Boutique is a special place. A portion of all sales proceeds goes to two other not-for-profit charities: Victims’ Rights Foundation, which performs volunteer support services on behalf of victims of violent crimes and attacks, and The Rockville Pregnancy Clinic, which serves those facing pregnancy related and sexual health issues, to empower their clients to make healthy life-affirming decisions.
Many of the gowns are donated by brides and for-profit bridal salons, and are a mixture of gently worn or brand new. And these donations are tax deductible. Are you thinking of donating? Be aware, though, Donna is at capacity, so don’t start rummaging through your attic.
Since Donna is also a fashionista, I wondered what was trendy on Fairytale racks and what were her brides requesting. Donna did not disappoint, she says, “anything lace, simple and, of course, the sleek and slender silhouettes.”
While Fairytale Brides has ball gowns, they are not being requested. But what is hot in Montgomery County Maryland is plus size bride dresses, and Donna told me, “We have sizes up to 30w and plus size women are great customers.”
So, there you have it. Brides are indeed rocking the wedding aisle with gently used wedding gowns, jewelry, tiaras, and an assortment of accessories. And those who donate are getting a tax deduction at Fairytale Brides on a Shoestring Boutique.
Check out Fairytale Brides online at www.fairytalebrides.org and be sure to join them for their Fairytale Brides Fundraising Event. Fashion. Fun. Philanthropy. And giving back with style with a Fashion Show & Silent Auction on Sunday, February 22, 2015 from 1-4pm at the Rock Creek Mansion, 5417 West Cedar Lane, Bethesda, Maryland. Be sure to tell them Marsha sent you!
