I can’t even begin to tell you how big my heart grew when I read this beautiful story. When this brave woman, mother of two gorgeous girls and dedicated wife was diagnosed with stage IV bi-lateral breast cancer, the sweet team at Wish Upon a Wedding came in to shine a bright light on her family during this difficult time. With the help of Platinum Weddings By Kerrie, Brian Leahy Photography and a handful of generous vendors stepping up to the plate, this sweet family lit up the day with their wide smiles and endless love. Don’t miss The Yodsukars touching film below!
Jo-ann and John’s celebration of love was made possible by the Southern California chapter of Wish Upon a Wedding, the world’s first nonprofit wish granting organization providing weddings and vow renewals for couples facing terminal illness and serious life-altering circumstances, regardless of sexual orientation. The organization grants wishes in all 50 states. To apply for a wish or find out how you can help, click here.
Description from the Platinum Weddings By Kerrie… Jo-ann and John fell in love and were married in a city hall ceremony almost 20 years ago, however, it wasn’t until this past fall that the happy and still incredibly devoted couple celebrated their dream wedding. After being recently diagnosed with Stage IV Bi-lateral Breast Cancer, Jo-ann said, “It would be such a miracle if we could experience such a positive occasion during this very difficult time.” This brave, kind-hearted and deserving wife and mother’s dream came true thanks to Wish Upon a Wedding, a national charity that grants wishes for couples facing terminal illness, and a talented team of generous wedding professionals.
Jo-ann’s biggest wish was to make this special day a celebration of love and family, so she was given a romantic and graceful occasion that would always be remembered. While Jo-ann had her own tastes, her vision came to life thanks to the assistance of many accomplished and giving vendors.
The couple’s celebration of love and family took place on a beautiful California day at the unique Rancho Las Lomas, a historic Spanish ranch and zoological garden. Jo-ann and John’s gorgeous day was not only filled with their supportive and loving friends, but it was filled with an array of romantic and delicate details as well. To accentuate their ‘celebration of love’ theme, romantic stationery, classically charming floral arrangements and soft blush and champagne tones were incorporated throughout the ceremony and reception.
For Jo-ann, it was important to have her two young daughters play a special part in the wedding. With no traditional bridesmaids, the couple’s daughters made up the bridal party and joined their parents at the altar. Towards the end of the ceremony, Jo-ann and John shared a touching moment; Shortly after they kissed, the couple stood forehead-to-forehead at the altar for about five minutes while their loving daughters and beaming guests happily watched.
After the couple’s beautiful ceremony, guests joined them for a spirited and lovely reception. To give the reception a romantic feel, a lounge area with an eclectic array of vintage furniture in natural color tones was created. Upon seeing the seating area, Jo-ann could barely contain just how surprised and truly thrilled she was!
One request Jo-ann had was to include a wishing tree as their guestbook. Family and friends wrote and hung personal notes and words of advice on a whimsical wishing tree. Guests also had an absolute blast taking photos in a fun, interactive photo booth.
While the day remained exceptionally happy, some tears were shed before the night was over. John’s father’s heartfelt toast to the couple was a moving addition to the couple’s celebration of love.
Photography: Brian Leahy Photography | Videographer: The Yodsukars | Coordination: Platinum Weddings by Kerrie | Floral Design: Flowers by Cina | Bakery: Cake Monkey | Invitations: East Six | Ceremony Venue: Rancho Las Lomas | Reception Venue: Rancho Las Lomas | Catering: Giracci Vineyards Farms | Lighting: Rancho Las Lomas | DJ: Vox DJs | Favors: Les Beaux Chocolats | Tuxedos: Friar Tux | Officiant: A Very Special Marriage | Beauty: Design Visage | Bridal Salon: Bonny Bridal | Linens: Designer Specialty Linens | Lounge Furniture: Found Rental Co. | Photobooth: ShutterBooth | Seating: Fusion Linens | Vendor: Wish Upon A Wedding