MURRELLS INLET, SC (WBTW) – Prom season is right around the corner, and most girls in high school dream of wearing the perfect dress. However, once a year when shopping at Inlet Bridal, when they find a dress for prom, one thing is missing- the price tag.
Christine Nelson started Joan England’s PROMises six years ago, naming the event that gives away free prom dresses in honor of her late mother.
“The whole gist of PROMises is that everything is free, we just ask that you pay it forward. Do something nice for somebody you don’t know,” Nelson said.
Nelson asks people to donate their gowns and prom dresses they no longer use to the cause. This year she received 310 dresses from across the country, along with dozens of shoes and accessories to match.
“If you put it out there that you’re looking to donate dresses to girls who can’t afford them, people really come forward and do so much,” Nelson said.
High school students like Adrianna Hernandez were able to find their perfect prom dress.
“It means a lot because I wouldn’t be able to get a dress, or a good dress like that, without being here,” Hernandez said.
When the senior at Horry County Early College High School took her first look in the mirror while trying on the dress, she was pleasantly surprised.
“I didn’t think it was gonna fit me because it looked tiny and it looked long, but I think it looked really good, so I was very happy with it,” Hernandez said.
Nelson says it’s that happy feeling that makes it all worth it.
“Generosity goes a long way. I think if somebody is kind to them, they in turn will do something nice for someone else,” Nelson said.
All of the leftover dresses from Joan England’s PROMises will be given to Conway High School and a local foster care center.
For more information about the event or how to donate, click here.