Volunteering in Style: Transforming Lives While Making an Impact

I never imagined modeling as a form of volunteering until last November when I got a text asking for volunteers to model dresses at the Illinois Bridal Expo.

For context, I started volunteering at a bridal boutique called Bridal Boutique by New Name as a bridal consultant last September. They are a Christian non-profit whose proceeds assist individuals impacted by human trafficking. I found the opportunity while browsing on a volunteer match website (I LOVE fashion, and combining volunteering with fashion = a perfect match for Ashley). Driving to my first appointment as a bridal consultant, I had no idea what to expect, but it was so much fun! From hearing the excitement of the bride-to-be and helping her look through the beautiful dresses to seeing her friends' reactions, it was a blast! I left the appointment excited to do another one.

When texted in November, I was happy to volunteer to model the beautiful gowns I'd only ever helped others try! Fast-forward to January and it was time for my dress fitting—we decided on two gorgeous gowns: a sweetheart-neckline A-line dress with detachable delicate lace sleeves and a long-sleeve, open-back, loosely fitted silhouette dress.

Expo weekend itself was a whirlwind. Joy filled the air in the convention center on Saturday and Sunday as I connected with brides-to-be. I heard about their wedding plans and dream dresses and shared all about the boutique with them. By the end of the expo, I had engaged with hundreds of brides-to-be and scheduled dozens of appointments (and did it all while modeling the two stunning boutique dresses).

I left the weekend feeling grateful to be a part of such a wonderful, niche organization that combines fashion and helping those in need.

FYI, we are always looking for new volunteers :)

Sign up to Volunteer Here: https://www.bridalboutiquebynewname.org/volunteer-opportunities

Ashley Johnson

Bridal Boutique by New Name Volunteer