Brides against breast cancer is a national nonprofit organization that has a mission to ensure all brides have a magical wedding day. Their original tour of gowns will unveil thousands of wedding dresses for brides-to-be this Saturday and Sunday at the Tampa Westshore Marriott hotel. Amy Paulishak, V.P. of the national tour of gowns will tell us more.

Known nationwide for its Nationwide Tour of Gowns bridal shows, Brides Against Breast Cancer will contribute proceeds to fund free programs and services offering support, education and hope to cancer patients and their families, according to Amy Paulishak,Director of The National Tour of Gowns. “Our outreach and educational efforts around the country help ensure that people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge and strengthened by action,” she said.

Wedding gown sales are an important fundraising program for Brides Against Breast Cancer. “Our organization makes it possible for future brides around the country to purchase designer wedding gowns at dramatic savings,” said Paulishak. “Most gown prices range from $99 to $799, including hundreds of beautiful new name brand and designer gowns valued up to $8,000.”

Paulishak added that the worldwide support of designers, manufacturers, bridal shops – and women who donate one of their most treasured possessions – their wedding dress — support the organization’s Nationwide Tour of Gowns sales. The proceeds from these events go directly to the services providing support, education and hope for those impacted by cancer.

“We are already receiving dozens of donated boxes filled with satin, beaded, tulle, and organza gowns in every shape and size,” she said. “New gowns are arriving daily at Cancer Support Community, and we welcome every donation.” Gown donations are tax deductible.

Through its Nationwide Tour of Gowns, Brides Against Breast Cancer holds more than 40 shows a year, with an average offering of 1,000 or more new or gently worn and designer dresses. Admission to the shows is free, although a VIP admission ($20.00) gives attendees a sneak peak at the gowns during “Power Hour” and ability to buy first. A seamstress is available on site for consultation.

“Exclusive designer and couture gowns are frequently available at great savings in our shows and locally as well,” Paulishak said, noting that a large number of the gowns presented at each event are brand new designer gowns donated by designers, manufacturers and bridal retailers.

To date, the Brides Against Breast Cancer program has received more than 50,000 wedding gown donations, with an estimated resale value of more than $4 million. This generous endowment is due in part to national media coverage, including magazine articles in Redbook, Family Circle, Woman’s Day, Martha Stewart’s Winter Wedding, Time, Philanthropy World and Modern Bride, along with appearances on Oprah Winfrey, CNN, and hundreds of television and newspaper interviews.

Through professionally led support groups, informational workshops and mind/body classes, Cancer Support Community helps people affected by cancer learn vital skills to improve the quality of their lives and make them better partners with their medical professionals. For more information: www.cancersupportsuncoast.org or www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org