On the off chance you haven’t heard already, I wanted to take a moment to write about something fantastic coming to the wedding industry right in our own backyard – here in St. Louis. It’s Wish Upon a Wedding and it’s exploding nationwide right now! Founded in San Francisco in January 2010, Wish Upon a Wedding is the world’s first wedding wish granting organization. What’s great about Wish Upon a Wedding is that they base their work on the “concept that two people in love should never be denied the chance to marry their soul mate, even if they only have months (or weeks) to live. Their primary purpose is to serve as a charitable foundation, dedicated to providing weddings and civil union ceremonies at destinations across the United States.”

St. Louis was fortunate enough to be selected to start a chapter courtesy of the hard work put in by St. Louis founding president, Lacy Branch. Just last week, Lacy organized the very first board meeting to get things rolling. I was honored to be asked by Lacy to participate in the St. Louis Board as marketing chair and several other area vendors were gracious enough to step in as well! In fact, the St. Louis Wedding Industry has already overwhelmed us with a huge outpouring of support and offers to volunteer!

Among the founding board members you will find some of St. Louis’ finest:

• Lacy Branch, Lacy Branch Events – President
• Lisa Gallagher, Belli Fiori – Vice-President
• Annemarie Schumacher, Schumacher Creative – Public Relations Chair
• Rob Schaefer, Steven Becker Fine Dining – Event Planning Chair
• Kimberly Grubbs, Bevo Mill – Fund Raising Chair
• Ashley Rath, Dishy Events – Marketing Chair
• Emily Testrake, Sisters Flowers – Medical Outreach Chair
• Beth Barr, Two Blue Doors – Co-Volunteer Coordinator Chair
• Holly Cunningham, Hollyberry Catering – Co-Volunteer Chair
• Kristin Weis, Kristin Ashley Events – Secretary

The St. Louis chapter is gearing up and getting ready to take shape! And as you’ve probably seen on Facebook, we’re looking for St. Louis Wish Granters and Volunteers of all types! If you’re in the industry and looking to make a difference, this is a great opportunity to lend a helping hand! If you’re not in the wedding industry, not a problem! It’s not a requirement in order to help out!

Also, if you don’t have the time, but have the miles, those help too! Wish Upon a Wedding is looking for individuals to donate air miles to help loved ones make the trip for each special day!

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled in the coming weeks for details regarding the St. Louis chapter launch party! I know I and the other board members are looking forward to being a part of this great organization and helping to make couples’ dreams a reality!

Cheers