Catherine’s Bridal visits Millais Secondary School

Earlier this month, Dawn Williams, Horsham Shop Manager, and Lisa Hepburn, Community Fundraising Assistant, took Catherine’s Bridal on the road for a very exciting event.

They visited Millais Secondary School in Horsham to showcase and sell our stunning collection of pre-loved prom dresses to Year 11 students — offering them an affordable, sustainable, and stylish way to prepare for their big night.

Dawn shares more about this fantastic initiative:

“Baz, the Chairman of Millais PTA, visited our Horsham store and shared his vision of helping students prepare for prom whilst also raising awareness for our hospice. The event was designed not only to provide beautiful and affordable outfits but also to educate students on sustainability and the impact of charity shopping.

“We took approximately 80 dresses in a variety of colours, styles, and sizes, as well as sparkly shoes, glitzy handbags, and even suits, shirts, and waistcoats, to cater to everyone’s needs and tastes.“

“The Millais PTA had some dresses for sale as well. And after the event, they kindly donated any that were left to our hospice for us to sell in our charity shops.

“Around 100 students came along with their parents, all eager to find their perfect prom attire.

“In total, we raised £224, with 20 per cent going to Millais PTA and the rest towards our expert care.

“We all had a wonderful time and felt very welcomed by the school. We really hope we made a difference to the young ladies of Millais.”

Lisa agreed and said:

“It was a great evening with lots of interactions from the girls who were all really happy to be trying and buying pre-loved. Many said that they would visit us in store to look at the other 70-odd dresses we have there. It was a real flurry of excitement and happy parents having saved a fortune on buying a brand-new dress.”

Baz, Chairman of Millais PTA said:

“The Pre-Loved Prom Dress Sale was a fantastic success, with many dresses finding new homes and raising valuable funds for St Catherine’s Hospice and Millais PTA. We are incredibly grateful to St Catherine’s for their generous support in providing the beautiful pre-loved dresses, and to everyone who attended, donated, and purchased on the night. Your support has made a real difference, and we are delighted to have been part of such a meaningful event.”