in this issue
Dresses for Military Brides
NH Dress Shop Donates Dresses to Military Brides
The US military and wedding dresses don't seem to have much in common. Heidi Janson, owner of the Bridal Stock Exchange in Seabrook, NH, however, found a way to unite this unlikely pair. A realization that our country needs to do more to support our troops led Janson to the idea of giving away bridal dresses to military brides. On July 8th and 9th, donated bridal gowns were given to brides with fiances serving in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as brides serving in the military themselves. Capri and Chinel, based at Hanscom Airforce Base, heard the shop was giving away designer gowns and jumped on the opportunity. Dressed in their fatigues and gorgeous diamond engagement rings, they were excited to try on dresses. 
Before Capri is deployed to Iraq, she looks forward to planning her wedding in Columbus, GA. Although she was disappointed at first to find she would be heading to Iraq, Capri decided to think positive and realize it would help save money for the wedding.
Demi of Stoneham, MA tried on three gowns, all beautiful, before settling on one. Her fiance is currently stationed in Mississippi in the Navy and will be deployed to Iraq in September. 
While the wedding is planned for next August, most of the wedding details have been finalized. With her fiance gone, Demi plans on staying busy to take her mind off things and looks forward to her big day.
One bride flew up from Cincinnati, Ohio to receive her free wedding gown. She tried on three gowns and ultimately chose the one she didn't think she would like.
The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq don't seem so far away when you meet with these brides. Naturally, they worry about their fiances, but they remain strong and look forward to the day when they will be able to wear their wedding dresses.
The Bridal Stock Exchange sells popular styled wedding gowns on consignment at 25-75% off retail price. Today's economy makes it difficult for brides to afford pricey gowns, but purchasing a dress used only once is a great way to save money without sacrificing style. The shop is located in the Cains Brook Mall at 255 Lafayette Road in Seabrook. Call 617-877-6396 for an appointment. www.bridalstockexchange.com