I really love being able to give something to someone that means so much to them. That is why I love the Deserving Bride Contest. I want to share with you my winner this year (as well as 2 runner ups!) and their stories.
Grand Prize Winner: Niki Park
Niki was nominated by her best friend Amy. I love when a friend does the essay because it feels so genuine. Here is Amy’s essay:
This entry is for my best friend Niki Park. Words cannot express how deserving this wonderful woman is of something like this. She is constantly giving and never receives. She recently returned from her second trip to Haiti working in an orphanage. She has spent her own money, time, and energy to go on countless volunteering experiences. She has been to orphanages in Haiti, Peru, and Ecuador. She has been a part of Big Brother, Big Sister organization and helped feed the homeless at Thanksgiving. She adopted two families for the Angel Tree this last Christmas and called to say that she was struggling because she wanted to give these needy families so much. She devotes her life to service. In her day to day life she is special education school nurse for Jordan School District. Now she has found her prince charming and they are getting married this summer. I could find numerous reasons why I think she deserves this, but most importantly she has touched so many lives with her happy disposition, caring attitude and as truly made a difference.
For those of you that know me, you will know exactly why I chose Niki for this. There are many reasons, but I have to admit, the first thing that stuck out was her name (my sister’s name was Niki Park before she got married!). Then my husband and I started adoption papers for a baby in Haiti (but then got pregnant with my son) and I still feel like one day we’ll be able to adopt our baby from there, so there is always a soft spot with me for Haiti. She also does the Angel Tree, which I love doing things for people around Christmas and love when others do too. I also used to be a teacher, and she is works in the school district, so another reason I love her. Then the fact that her best friend wrote the essay because after meeting Niki, I know she would never have done it herself. She just is one of those that gives and gives and expects nothing in return. Well I hope that this is just a little payback for all the good you have done my dear! I was able to spend some time talking to Niki after she won, and also her mom, fiance, and best friend and she truly was so amazing and wonderful and I am so happy for her and SO excited to take some pictures for her!
*Niki won temple/reception coverage and a free engagement session with all digital negatives from me. She also won free make-up, hair and eyelash extensions from Hannah Goodrich.
I also gave away two free engagement session for my 2nd and 3rd place winners. Congratulations to Natalie Ginos and Kimberly Lofgren. I am so excited to get to know all of you and have a great time taking pictures!
