Confession: Despite the fact that I graduated from high school almost ten years ago, I still possess every single prom and homecoming gown I ever wore. They’ve set up camp, occupying an entire closet in my husband’s office. And as thrilled as he is to have them there, it’s about time for them to find a new home.
Over the last five years, I’ve heard great things about the Ultra Chic Prom Boutique. The idea behind the event is fairly simple; serving as a fundraiser for The Lydia House, locally-owned dry cleaner Max I. Walker collects, cleans, presses and mends prom dresses that are donated to their cause. They then set up a one day only boutique and sell the dresses for a flat rate of $25 each. The set up enables young women to buy their dream dress for next to nothing and funds raised go to support one of Omaha’s most worthy causes, The Lydia House. The Lydia House at The Open Door Mission provides provides emergency services for women and families in need of immediate assistance in Omaha and its surrounding areas.
Max I. Walker collected over 1,500 dresses for their event in 2011 and are still accepting donated gowns for this year’s event. Are you interested in donating a dress or two? Simply drop your donation at any of Max I. Walker’s Omaha locations. Thinking about visiting the Ultra Chic Prom Boutique? The event will take place in the Palace Ballroom at the Ramada Plaza Hotel & Convention Center on 72nd and Grover Streets on Saturday, February 25th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Be sure to swing by early to check out booths from local vendors such as Ashley Lynn’s Tanning, Qdoba, Nebraska Dance, Gentleman’s Choice, Tip Top Tux, Bangs Salon, Shine Day Spa and Distinguished Young Women of Nebraska. A fashion show featuring local celebrities will take place at 11:30 a.m. with raffle tickets will be for sale and prizes drawn throughout the event. Those wishing to purchase a dress should note that this is a cash only event. For more information on the Ultra Chic Prom Boutique, visit ultrachicprom.com.
Sarah Lorsung Tvrdik is a stylist, costumier, wife and freelance writer based in Omaha, Nebraska. Her style blog can be found at fashflood.com.