100 Dresses For 100 Military Brides

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The old saying goes "something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue." So, how about something for free?

"We still have a lot of beautiful gowns to give away," said Jackie Basney owner of Anelique's Bridal Salon in Blaine.

NewsRadio 830 WCCO's Edgar Linares Reports

The store's fifth Annual Military Extravaganza is on Sunday. They're goal is to giveaway 100 bridal gowns to military women getting married or brides marrying service members.

"Girls have to submit an essay telling us about their love story," said Basney. "We like to get to know our brides. And they can do that up until Friday."

Some of the women tell stories about being in combat and others detail their love story. So far, only 30 essays have been submitted.

Basney says her parents were very patriotic and that's driven her to do this for the last five years.

"I think we forget -- in fact I did until I started doing this -- exactly what happens and what these people go through," said Basney. "What a sacrifice they make for us, for our freedom. If we can give back in some way we need to do that."

The dresses range in price from $700 to $2,000. The giveaway has also inspired other business to donate flowers, cakes, photography, tuxedos and a DJ during Sunday's big event.