“Lemonade Wedding” Winners Take Their Vows

Sept. 13, 2010 - PRLog -- From the moment the bride arrived at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in a classic burgundy Model T, it was clear that this was no ordinary wedding.  The small ceremony was a sweet celebration for Amanda Lustig and David Daugherty of Cape Coral and North Fort Myers, the winners of the “Lemonade Wedding” giveaway.  The couple took their vows on Sunday, September 12.

“It’s a cliché, but when life gives you lemons, you’re supposed to make lemonade,” said Kirsten O’Donnell of Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida (http://www.goodwillswfl.org), one of the Lemonade Wedding’s sponsors.  “Our goal was to make something sweet for a couple who’s been through some sour times.”

The contest was open to engaged couples who were unable to have a wedding because of financial obstacles, job loss, health risks, or other complicated situations. Lustig and Daugherty were selected from nearly 50 couples who entered the contest.  

Picking a winner was difficult, says Rachel Schoof of event sponsor Studio Six Eleven (http://www.studio6xi.com).  “We had heartbreaking stories from couples that were facing hard times,” says Schoof.  “Amanda and David both lost their jobs because of the economy, and have also lost loved ones recently. But through those sour times, they found each other.”

“There’s a lot of people that didn’t think that me and David would end up having a nice wedding,” said the bride, who admitted that she was nervous during the ceremony.  “Everything went perfect.  I’m really happy.”

Twenty-five local vendors generously contributed to the Lemonade Wedding prize package, which included the ceremony, transportation, reception, and even a hotel stay.  With the exception of some gratuities, all expenses were covered by the sponsors.

“Everyone was so generous with their services,” says O’Donnell.  “And the result was a really beautiful wedding.”

Sponsors contributing to the bride and groom’s prize package included Black Tie Tuxedos, Bridal Evening Gown Outlet, Connie Duglin Specialty Linens & Chair Cover Rental, Duquette Photography, the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, Elegant Affairs, Elle Events, Faces by David Frohmberg, the Flying Pig, Fort Myers Floral Designs, Fotos-R-Fun, Frank Jean Massage, Frey Valet, the Heitman House, Hotel Indigo Fort Myers, Kakes By Karen LLC, LPH Designs LLC, Model T Chauffeur Services, Patty’s Flower Shop, Provident Jewelry, Shari Brownie Photography, Tan USA, and musician Derek Trenholm.  

See more of the Lemonade Wedding: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLSZJBc79PQ



The Lemonade Wedding sponsors hope to make the contest an annual event.  For more information, please visit http://www.lemonadewedding.com or email info@lemonadewedding.com.

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About Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida, Inc.:
Goodwill operates 24 thrift stores in Southwest Florida to support its mission of removing barriers to independence. Programs include income-sensitive housing, career placement assistance, the L.I.F.E. Academy Charter School, Four Wheels for Work, and others.