Local Store Owner Helps Give Military Brides Dream Wedding

The actions that took place on Sept. 11, 2001 have changed America forever. From that moment on, families with loved ones in the military were pulled apart as they saw their spouses fly halfway around the world to places like Iraq and Afghanistan.

So many things that people took for granted suddenly changed into daily burdens that not everyone was ready or prepared for.  That alone can cause a tremendous amount of stress on everyone involved.

Couples with military ties in the family are put under a tremendous amount of stress not knowing what each day will bring. Every time someone watches the news and hears about American soldiers dying, or U.S. troops being put in jeopardy for the ‘Fight for Freedom,’ it could mean their family unit is potential destroyed.

Growing up in a military family, Madison West, owner of 2531 Huntingdon Pike, knows all about the trials and tribulations people go through watching loved ones go overseas.

"My father was 25 years in the navy, and I believe that we owe everything to our military," West said in an interview. "So for me, military and charity goes hand-in-hand."

Because of this, West teamed up with Brides Across America to give away designer wedding gowns to military brides-to-be for free. It took place in July and there were a number of people lined outside her store that morning. Some of the donations were made from Eugenia Couture, Justin Alexander, Liz Fields Bridal, Magnolia Bridal, among others. The gowns donated were valued between $500-$4,000.

The event was primarily for women who had spouses on active duty in the military, or had been deployed within the last five years to Iraq, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Libya or Japan.

Not only did West watch future brides pick out their wedding gown, but the store owner also teamed up with other professionals so each woman had the chance to have her hair and makeup professionally done, had photos taken and gave away flowers for up to 25 brides who made appointments.  

“We have recruited our premiere partners here at Valley Courtyard, working with TLP Studios, I have makeup … they’re getting additional savings on florists, honeymoon travel, alterations. We really wanted to create a unique package and surprise not only the dress, but also a package that would allow them a little more affordability knowing our military work on such a reduced budget. We just want to help and make their wedding wishes come true.”

Yes to the Dress is a relatively new boutique that opened in June. With the great turnout West received this year, she hopes to make this a yearly event.

“We have been given an amazing opportunity to partner with Brides Across America in order to make wedding wishes come true to military brides-to-be,” West said. “I anticipate that we will be holding this as an annual event as long as we have the opportunity to help these service men and women,” West said. “It’s our thanks to say to them our gratitude that they take fighting for our freedoms and liberties.”