A local bride has helped raise funds for Treetops Hospice – first by choosing her wedding dress from the charity’s bridal boutique, and again by donating it back after her big day so another bride can enjoy it.
Keziah first discovered the boutique based in Wollaton after being a bridesmaid for two friends who both tried on gowns there.
She said: “I remembered how beautiful the dresses were and how happy both of my friends were when they bought them from the Treetops shop.
“I also loved the idea that what I spent on my dress could help support quality end‑of‑life care in the community.”
During her appointment, Treetops’ bridal fitting volunteer Alison guided her through the collection.
“The boutique is small but beautifully laid out, and you can see every dress,” Keziah explained.
“I initially went in wanting a big princess dress, but Alison encouraged me to try lots of styles. I ended up choosing something completely different – the dress I went for was slim, elegant and just perfect.”
Alison helped her picture the final fit and referred her to a trusted alterations specialist, making the whole experience simple and enjoyable.
Front of Treetops Bridal Boutique
After her wedding, Keziah knew she wanted the dress to return to the place it came from. “I knew I wouldn’t wear it again, and I didn’t want it gathering dust at home. I wanted someone else to enjoy it, and for the money to go back into the incredible care Treetops provides.”
“Nathaniel and I wanted our wedding to be an opportunity to give back, so donating the dress felt like the perfect way to be generous and kind.”
Keziah hopes her story encourages more brides to consider second-hand dress shopping – particularly as more couples look for sustainable and affordable wedding options.
“You can find stunning dresses, with some even in brand‑new condition, at really affordable prices. By shopping at Treetops’ bridal boutique, you’re supporting a charity that makes a huge difference to local families.
“Go with an open mind and you might just find your dream dress in something completely unexpected, like I did.”
Her gown is now back on the Treetops bridal boutique rails, ready to help fund more expert care and create more memories for another bride.
Lead photo:Keziah and her husband Nathaniel on their wedding day.
About Treetops Hospice
Treetops Hospice is a leading end-of-life care charity in Derbyshire, for adults with life-limiting conditions, people who have been bereaved, and their families.
The charity offers support from the point of diagnosis onwards for patients living with conditions such as cancer, motor neurone disease and heart and respiratory illnesses.
Last year, the Treetops nursing team supported over 2,000 patients, with over 34,000 hours of end-of-life care delivered.
The bereavement counselling team provided more than 5,000 hours of sessions – including over 1,500 for children and young people. The Wellbeing team also offers vital information, guidance, and emotional support to those who need it most.
A donation of £34.50 helps provide a counselling session for a bereaved child. A donation of £108 helps provide nursing care through the night for a patient at the end of life.
Donations are warmly welcomed to help secure the future of the hospice and its services: www.treetopshospice.org.uk/donate
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