Dozens of suppliers contributed more than $50,000 worth of services to make a terminally ill woman’s ideal wedding a reality.
Kristina Hamilton has diffuse systemic scleroderma, a rare autoimmune illness in which the body produces tissue that is thicker than normal. Hamilton’s bone structure has already changed as a result of the incurable illness, which has caused her to lose teeth, have lung difficulties, and experience other medical complications. Hamilton was uncertain about her ability to survive her wedding day due to the ongoing attack on her vital organs.
Last year, Hamilton spontaneously registered for Wish Upon a Wedding, an organization that provides weddings and vow renewals to couples facing terminal illness or other life-altering health conditions. She was amazed when they chose her. Hamilton enjoyed an “unforgettable” wedding to Chris Swanson at Trinity Oaks of Matthew’s Hope in Cocoa, Fla., on Sunday, April 6.
Courtney Woolbright of I Do for You Wedding & Event Planning prepared the desire. She found local vendors who volunteered their time and talents to the event, which cost more than $50,000, according to Florida Today.
“We want to thank Wish Upon a Wedding from the bottom of our hearts for giving us the most beautiful and unforgettable wedding day,” the newlyweds told PEOPLE. “Their compassion, generosity, and love gave us a present that we will treasure forever. They do more than plan weddings; they give people unforgettable moments of joy, hope, and love.
The bride, 42, and groom, 43, who met via an internet dating service in 2023, exchanged vows in grandeur. Hamilton portrayed elegance in a strapless wedding gown with a sweetheart neckline. Her Crown of Flowers LLC bouquet of blue and white roses and orchids complemented Swanson’s blue Aurora Bridal attire.
“Chris has been my steadfast companion throughout everything.” His love and support motivate me every day,” Hamilton adds.
Following the brief ceremony, the party proceeded with cocktail hour, which included cuisine from East Coast Shuckers. The newlyweds and their approximately 50 guests danced to DJ Chemics’ music, took photographs in a photo booth provided by 1,000 Words, and ate dinner from Renaissance Catering before cutting into portions of delectable wedding cake created by Cynful Snacks & Cakes. They also drank mocktails from De-Booze Mobile Bartending and Pop & Pour.
The reception hall featured round tables with white and blue linens provided by Chairs for Affairs, as well as lovely place settings from Mimosas & Moonshine Rentals.
Hot Rayz Limousines provided the couple’s getaway car after their wedding.
“Because of Wish Upon a Wedding, we’ve started this chapter with hearts full of love and hope,” according to the pair.
With seven children together, Hamilton and Swanson are now embracing each day as it comes.
“As we begin our journey together as husband and wife, Chris and I are focusing on building a life filled with purpose, strength, and family,” according to Hamilton. “We’re raising my three great children and enjoying the blessing of forming a blended family with Chris’s four incredible children.” We’re navigating life with love and gratitude.”
Hamilton approaches her medical adventure positively.
“I continue to fight my battle with diffuse systemic scleroderma, an autoimmune disease that has tested me in ways I never imagined—but it’s also strengthened my voice and spirit,” she tells me. “We hope to not only manage my health but to raise awareness, share our story, and one day contribute to finding a cure for others living with this disease.”
She keeps going: “We’re currently working on a book that shares my life journey, and I’ve launched a blog and Facebook page called Still Standing: Kristina’s Journey, where we’ll share our story, connect with others, and hopefully inspire people to hold onto hope no matter what they’re facing.”