Work & Mission

Brides Across America (BAA) is a non-profit committed to loving one another by gifting weddings and wedding gowns to our military & first responders.

Whether it's for love of country or love at the altar, our military and first repsonders deserve our very best. Since 2008, Brides Across America has played a role in making their dreams come true by giving a military or first responder bride a free wedding gown during an “Operation Wedding Gown Event”.

To date we have gifted over 28,000 wedding dresses and over 25 free weddings. Each year we host dozens of Operation Wedding Gown giveaway events at participating bridal salons nationwide. Events are held in July (around Independence Day) and November (around Veteran's Day).

Core Values

BAA believes that one seed planted can grow many leaves.  It is our duty as Americans to support each other and pay tribute to our troops.

Our purpose is to have bridal salons and wedding professionals bring awareness and support by expanding their philanthropy efforts by holding bridal gown giveaway events in their community.

We believe in changing lives and transformation.  If we can change one life and make a difference, we have done what we set out to do.

By taking action today, you can unite with us in passing on the love and making a dream come true.

Our History

In 2008, Heidi Janson established Brides Across America, driven by a desire to honor the commitment of the brave individuals serving in the United States Armed Forces. Starting with a network of salons, the organization initiated its first program, generously supported by donations of time and resources. That inaugural year saw fifty gowns gifted to military brides. Expanding its mission in 2016, Brides Across America began extending its support to first responders, recognizing their daily sacrifices in the line of duty.

Brides Across America has garnered the attention of ABC's Nightly News, People Magazine, HGTV, Steve Harvey and The Doctors Show.  However, the highest honor was received from The Joining Forces Community Challenge at the White House hosted by Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden.  The event recognized twenty organizations for their contributions to improving the lives of military families. Brides Across America continues to support wounded warriors, post-traumatic stress and employment for veterans.

Looking Forward

BAA continues to dream big and inspires us to unite our country and spread more love around the world, one dress and one wedding at a time. Several new initiatives will enable us to expand our mission by creating person- and couple-specific directed giving opportunities -- including gifted weddings, financial support for specific couples, and the ability to honor a loved one through directed giving.