Military Brides Receive Free Wedding Gowns

CRYSTAL (WCCO) -- Thanks to a Minnesota bridal salon, some Twin Cities military brides were able to say "yes" to the dress without having to commit to the price tag this week.

Diana Ellingson, owner of The Wedding Chapel in Crystal, said she has always admired those in the military and wanted to help.

"When I heard about this, I thought well this is my way of how I can give back to these people who have made sacrifices for our county," said Ellingson.

NewsRadio 830 WCCO's Samantha Smith Reports

So, she decided to take part in Brides Across America, which is a non-profit organization that gives military brides free wedding gowns.

Thanks to the organization, Ashley Grove was able to find her "dream dress."

"It's awesome, because not everybody knows like what all it entails, so being able to have people that will help you regardless is really nice to know," said Grove.

The Wedding Chapel was the only Twin Cities bridal salon to participate in the program.

Ellingson said more than 50 brides took advantage of the opportunity during the two-day event.