A tribute to Emily

Wish

Apr 13

On March 15, 2023, Tony and Emily gathered with friends and family to unite their lives in marriage and to celebrate a love story that persevered despite unimaginable loss.

Tony and Emily first met online in 2020. As they chatted, they felt an incredible connection to one another. Eventually, Emily invited Tony over and he ended up never leaving. Just two months after meeting, Emily went to visit her dad, who was suffering in the late stages of ALS and who would soon pass away. While on her trip, she learned that she was pregnant. Nine months later, Emily gave birth to a beautiful baby girl.

When their daughter was just one year old, Emily started experiencing some concerning issues with her hands. After multiple tests with a neurologist, it was confirmed that Emily had ALS. Sadly, her disease progressed rapidly, and she lost her battle this past week.

It was a pleasure meeting this beautiful young, vibrant mother who loved Steampunk Festivals and who worked as an accomplished pastry chef. We were honored to help this couple in the midst of their very hard journey and to grant their wish for a wedding. All of our love goes out to Tony and their family as they grieve this significant loss.

We found the perfect partner in our new friend Beth Utano of Utano Event & Wedding Planning and were truly humbled by the incredibly special day that she planned in just a matter of 3 weeks. Beth assembled an amazing group of kind, wonderful wish granters who went above and beyond to shower Emily and Tony with so much love.

Video production donated by: Select Wedding Films, Syracuse, NY

We are eternally grateful for this remarkable team:

Planner: Beth Utano, Utano Event & Wedding Planning

Venue and Catering: Collegian Hotel & Suites

Photography: Vanessa Harber Photography

Videography: Select Wedding Films

Floral: AMK Floral

Baker: Cakes by Michele

Beauty: The Beauty Stop

Balloon Arch: B’s Daydream Balloon Co.

Stationery: RD Events and Design

Wedding Bands: Henry Wilson Jewelers