I’ll be honest, my senior prom was LESS than delightful.
Everything was beautiful. The venue was in downtown Chicago, we took a limo to get there, and student council did an amazing job planning everything. My mom bought me the most perfect prom dress and I did my own hair and makeup. I got my shoes on sale and the boutonniere was ready to go. The problem was…I kept knocking heads with my date, SO MUCH…that he got saucy with me. He said, “I’m just glad this isn’t my prom.” Thanks for the stab.
My dress was the most beautiful gown that reminded me of Belle from Beauty and the Beast. I went to a boutique where they make a note of what high school you go to and make sure no one else at that prom has the same gown. Yes, I was one of those girls. It was like Say Yes to the Dress, high school edition. Girls were crying, mothers were throwing fits. Thankfully, that was not my experience. I was in wonderland! I put on dresses and they glammed me up in front of the mirror. It was honestly one of the best experiences, just me and my mom. Getting to try all these dresses and playing with accessories. I just didn’t realize at the time how fortunate I was that my mom allowed me to wear an expensive gown for essentially a high school dance.
But prom is MORE than just a high school dance. It’s a rite of passage. It’s the celebration that marks the end of high school the beginning to the next chapter of life. It’s your Cinderella moment. People get to see you dolled up and make a moment out of it. Everyone should have a chance to experience it.
The dress is focal point. Every girl dreams of their perfect prom dress. The unfortunate part is not every one can afford a gown, but every girl deserves her Cinderella moment.
[line]
When I found out about The Gifted Gown, I was immediately gravitated toward it. It is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization that provides gowns (prom and wedding), tuxedos/suits, and accessories for free. No. Questions. Asked. How amazing is that? Everything is donated to this organization from small dress boutiques to anybody who wants to get their formal wear out of their closet! I had the opportunity to join other Indianapolis based bloggers for a photo shoot, showing off a few of The Gifted Gown’s most beautiful clothing for the upcoming prom season! When I visited the boutique, I was amazed on how many dresses the owner, Julia, had. Gowns of every size, short and long, simple to extremely elegant ballgowns and sleek mermaid dresses. Gowns that fill your dreams for a price you can afford. There more boxes in the back of the store, donated from small businesses from all over Indiana. The fact that so many people believe in this organization makes me heart so warm.
What I LOVE the most about The Gifted Gown is their mission which rings soundly with that here at Teacups & Hiccups.
“The Gifted Gown is dedicated to cultivating self-esteem and to the empowerment of women and men in our community. We gift new and gently-used formal attire to people expressing financial hardship who deserve a helping hand with their special occasion celebrations. We provide a chic, fun and family-friendly shopping experience in a boutique environment for those who use our services.” – The Gifted Gown
They believe in kindness, community, and support. I can’t stress enough about how much empowerment is so important, especially in today’s society. When I read that their mission revolves around self-esteem and empowerment, I was immediately drawn in.
This organization was built on helping other people, how honorable is that? The Gifted Gown is giving the opportunity for girls, women, and men to enjoy their event without having the worry of “what am I going to wear.” This was honestly one of the best organizations to work with and I’m so glad Julia started this. You can check out more about The Gift Gown here.
[line] How Can You Get Involved? [line]
Donate : If you have any dresses/suits/tuxedos that are taking up room in your closet, you can donate those items. It may be time your formal wear need a new home. Giving back to community is one of the greatest feelings. You can actually drop off your items in designated area in Indianapolis or call/email The Gifted Gown for instructions. Learn more here.
Volunteer: The Gifted Gown loves helping hands, from hosting a drive to becoming a personal stylist. The more the merrier, besides, community is imperative. Learn more about volunteer opportunities here.
[line]
It is a gift to be alive and well. It is also a gift to give back to our community.
I was so happy to be a part of a photo shoot showcasing The Gifted Gown with other Indianapolis bloggers. All of our blogs are from different backgrounds, but we share the love for our community and helping fellow Boss Babes in Circle City.
Check out some pictures from the photo shoot below.
Photography by Kaylee Creighton Photography.
[line]
[line] Special Thanks to:[line]
- Julia from The Gifted Gown for introducing this wonderful organization to me! She has the kindest soul with the most giving heart. @thegiftedgown on Instagram
- Sarah (@indydressed) from IndyDressed for organizing everything! She is a lifestyle blogger who writes about every thing from fashion to food! She is a proud Hoosier and celebrates our little, but fierce community of creatives.
And
- Kaylee from Kaylee Creighton Photography for the amazing photos! She is so talented, funny, and great to work with! @kayleecreightonphotography and @kcpstyled on Instagram
Check out these amazing, BEAUTIFUL Indy bloggers I got to strike a pose with and who YOU need to get to know!
Brittney (@theprettyplus) from The Pretty Plus. Brittney writes about beauty, lifestyle, fashion, and so many other wonderful topics about life! She is authentic through and through.
Sierra (@eclectickurves) from EclecticKurves. She is a fashion blogger who celebrates the differences that makes each and one of us unique. As she says, “Style should have no size constraints.”
Jalysa (@jalysadelyn) from JalysaDelyn. Jalysa is a blogger who writes about fitness to general wellness, and has amazing quotes on her instagram! She is a yoga instructor in Indy, so maybe you’ll see her around!
[line] Extra Thanks to Our Vendors[line]
Sweet Treats: Treats by Kelly Englert (@sweetsntreats317)
The Oscar ballot Prints : by Graphics by DD on Etsy.
Sarah’s Hair: Michelle at Studio 2000 Salon and Spa.
Jalysa’s Hair & Makeup: Tiffany and Tina at Ulta Beauty
My makeup : Beautycounter & Tarte Cosmetics
