What makes ‘Wish Upon A Wedding’ tick? “The other fellow first.”

Yesterday, I committed to a new responsibility, National Director of Social Media for Wish Upon A Wedding. Organization founder, Liz Guthrie had sought me out in its early stages, last November, but due to my crazy schedule, at that time, the connection didn’t get completed.

As luck would have it, at a speaking engagement in Turks & Caicos withWPIC, I met Sasha Souza, National President for Wish Upon A Wedding. It turned out that Sasha reads this blog, from time to time, and it was she, who hand recommended me. Recently, I had another chance to talk with Sasha, in person, a second time, and she encouraged me again. When the opportunity came up to assist with Wikipedia and Social Media, it took me only a split second to ask for consideration.

The founding board set modes goals for its first year. Start five chapters, and begin the process of granting weddings for terminally ill individuals. To date, Wish Upon A Wedding has 12 operational chapters and several more in formation. They expect to charter another dozen chapters in 2011 and then take time to catch their breath.

That dazzling growth would indicate awareness and growth has been shockingly spectacular. Wedding industry professionals can be workaholics who seldom remember to take vacations. Despite their break-neck schedule, it is heartwarming to see so many have elected to block out precious time and give… not just to a charity or cause, but to human beings who have endured some of life’s greatest challenges.

This year will be my 40th high school reunion and celebration. I was reminded of non-denominational chapel services held, every morning. Mr. Jones, the school headmaster, had a favorite parable: The Good Samaritan. He told it every year. It’s morale: “The Other Fellow First”, resonates with me to this day.

I know you’re busy. As busy as I am. Maybe busier. But, I ask you to invest just six minutes to watch and absorb this video. You’ll immediately understand why so many wedding professionals before me, have elected to take some time to put The Other Fellow first, and become a part of Wish Upon A Wedding.

Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing Blog