The dress. I had the privilege to wear my mother’s wedding gown. I was honored whenever my Mama first suggested I wear it. I mean, what a blessing to be presented such a sentimental heirloom. It was worn by my Mama on April 16, 1983, when she exchanged vows with my Daddy. It was worn two other times, before it was passed on to me. Once, by my cousin, Robin Allen on June 20, 1992.
In recognition of the Christian marriages established while wearing this gown, I had each of our wedding dates stitched into the lining. The first date is my Mema’s wedding date, January 21, 1963. Although she didn’t actually wear the gown, she influenced the lives of my Mama and I greatly. The second date is my Mama’s wedding date and the third date is Robin’s wedding date. The last date stitched into the gown is our wedding date, May 5, 2012. I chose light blue thread to serve as my something blue.
From the alterations, lace was savored for my sister, my brother’s bride, Bailey, and Robin’s girls, Destiny and Maddie. Ultimately, I hope to have garters made for each of them – so the gown may be a part of their wedding day as well.
Embossed with sentiment and lace, this gown meant more to me than just any dress off a rack ever could have. It was a gift, a treasure, a prize. I will forever be grateful for the extraordinary gift my Mama gave me on that day and the love she’s shown me since the day I was born. I have one very incredible Mama.
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A special thanks to Kim Russell & Emily Flynt with K&R Photography. Feel free to check out more of her work here.