Businesses work together to marry terminally ill couples
Leek Weddings will offer everything needed for the big day
A COMPASSIONATE team of Leek businesses have come together to offer free weddings for terminally ill couples.
The idea came after Emma Wisely, who runs Em’s Catering Cakes and Events which has 14 years in the industry, was gifted some wedding items.
Now Emma is to open a new unit at Town Yard in Station Road in Leek on Friday, June 11 entitled Leek Weddings.
Emma said: “For the past four weeks we have worked our little socks off getting the unit ready for marrying terminally ill couples.
“It’s been a huge challenge to say the least but I’m so glad to say we’re finally finished and ready to utilise it, as it should be.
“Five months ago I decided after being gifted some wedding items that I’d like to create a group where those with terminal illnesses could marry for free.
“So I set out on a mission asking for donations of dresses suits decor flowers and more.
“I contacted lots of companies to see if they would be able to help with donating their time for free to help me complete the whole dream package and was inundated with offers of help.
“I then took on larger premises to offer the venture, created a dressing room and am also ready to offer cake and catering.
“Last week was my light opening for the suppliers to meet and greet, it was absolutely amazing to see everyone who turned up.
“I’m so proud to have created such a magical group and finally be able to get these services used.
“And I am super excited to say I’m awaiting a call to confirm a wedding later this month.
“Creating memories and helping others is so important to me.
“My next mission is to raise funds to apply for a wedding license to marry on-site, offering the complete package for those who aren’t able to travel – and to source enough to cover the registrars fees.
“Although with Leek Weddings we will be able to offer the whole package with the license, we are also on standby for those wanting to marry who are bed-bound and very poorly.
“My husband has been my rock throughout the whole process and done all the transformation in the unit he’s worked so hard to complete it how I imagined it would look.”
The team can offer services including dresses and suits; hair; nails; make up; flowers; photographer; travel; cake; catering; venue; celebrant and gift for the married couples.
Emma added: “I have arranged for the wedding dress or suit to be made into a keepsake, whether that be a cushion memory bear or a christening gown, just so they have something to cherish.
“I’ve tried to create the most simplistic day but containing everything for the most magical time for the couple and creating those important memories.
“I am very proud to work along such an amazing team of local businesses.”