How to Give Back After Your Wedding…

Today is National Philanthropy Day, a day where we honor the concept of giving to others who need it. What better way to recognize such a wonderful day than to highlight six ways to give back via your wedding? Let’s get right to it, shall we?

1. Donate your wedding dress. There are a number of worthy charities that accept wedding gowns. A couple of our favorites are The Angel Gown Program that turns wedding gowns into clothing for infants that pass in the hospital, and Brides Across America that donates gowns to military brides.

2. Give some of your wedding money to couples facing serious ailments. Organizations like Wish Upon a Wedding help couples dealing with life-altering circumstances such as serious illness. You could take up a collection at your wedding or agree to contribute a percentage of your wedding gift money to a cause like this one.

3. Feed the homeless. Research local shelters and find out what types of food donations they accept. Then make arrangements with your caterer to keep any excess food safely packaged so you can donate it to the shelter after the reception. If this isn’t possibly in your area, donate some time at a food shelter before the wedding with your wedding party.

4. Share your floral. Your wedding floral should be enjoyed as long as possible. Find out if your venue offers transporting floral to local nursing homes or hospitals, or see if a member of your wedding party would be willing to drop it off at a location that accepts floral donations.

5. Register for donations to a local charity. There are several websites that allow you to register for donations to your favorite charities. If you’re an established couple who doesn’t need much, this is a wonderful way to involve your guests in philanthropy.

6. Honeymoon somewhere you can help. Countries in Africa and South America need aid, so why not help provide it while on your honeymoon? You don’t have to spend the entire time handing out food, clothing, and supplies, but even one or two days will make a huge impact on their lives as well as yours.

What would you add to this list? Add your ideas in the comments!