A Steel City Wedding Wish

Wish

Aug 21

On July 11, 2019, William and Shelley stood before family and friends at the Bella Sera Event Villa to recommit their lives to one another in a touching vow renewal ceremony.

William and Shelley’s story first began about 25 years ago when they met through a mutual friend. Shortly after they started dating, they quickly fell in love. Not long after, they were blessed with two children, just 10 months apart. The couple married in 1997 and were met with the hard work of trying to develop their fairly new relationship, while raising young children. While it wasn’t always easy, Shelley and William’s relationship persisted and they grew closer together as the years went on.

A few years ago, William’s health began to change and he started experiencing some troubling health problems. Despite numerous doctor visits, they were never able to get any good answers. On April 11th of last year, he had a stroke and collapsed at the grocery store. He spent the next 77 days in the hospital with a slew of harrowing complications including having a heart valve replaced, being intubated for months and spending 34 days in a coma. On more than one occasion, he was clinging to life.

After many months spent searching for answers, William was ultimately diagnosed with interstitial lung disease with pulmonary fibrosis. His conditioned as progressed considerably and his only hope for survival is a double lung transplant, which as of now, he has not been able to qualify for.

We fell in love with this beautiful couple from day one and could not wait to grant their wish for a vow renewal. From start to finish, Shelley and William’s special day could not have been more perfect. Our friends over at Wanderlust Weddings and Events recruited an all-star team that went above and beyond in making Shelley and William’s wish one they will never forget.

From the vibrant, cheerful flowers, inspired by William’s tradition of buying Shelley yellow roses, to the decadent feast, guest cookie table (a time-honored Pittsburgh wedding tradition), gorgeous ombre cake and beautiful ceremony music, the day was quite a dream.

Shelley and William held hands and cried during their emotional ceremony, officiated by their dear friend and pastor of many years. They ended the ceremony with a passionate kiss, which kicked off a night of dining, dancing and celebrating with friends.

We are so very thankful for all of the wish granters who stepped up to shower Shelley and William with all the love. From the bottom of our hearts – thank you, thank you!

Wish Granters:

Wedding Planner: Wanderlust Weddings and Events

Venue/Catering:Bella Sera Event Villa and Catering

Photographer: Lavender Leigh Photography

Videographer: Post Script Films

Music: Jason Kendall Productions

Florist: Community Flower Shop

Baker: Bella Christie’s and Lil Z’s Sweet Boutique

Linens: All Occasions Party Rental

Hair: Ritual Hair Company

Make-up: B Morgan Makeup

Stationery: Angela Pro Design