The First Day Of The Rest Of Our Lives

Needs Must

Given all the natural disasters and tragedies in the world, I feel somewhat guilty of trying to raise funds for our wedding here, but needs must....

The Story

On 22nd February 2013 I will be marrying the love of my life.  We met in 2005 and have been together ever since.  Due to never feeling financially ready I held off on proposing for many years.  However, at the beginning of 2012 I secured a job with a salary that meant we really could do it.  So I bought the ring and waited for the right moment.  Eventually I spontaneoulsy got down on one knee after a romantic walk one Sunday evening to the Opera House in Sydney.  It was perfect.  A light breeze in the air, romantic music playing in the distance, and Sydney Harbour in the background.

Plans were made, the venue was booked and guests were invited (including several from the UK as that is where many of my family and friends are).  Excitement levels rose as we made plans for the most important day (certainly thus far) of our lives.

Then, a spanner in the works.  I was made redundant from my role just under three months in, therefore receiving no payout other than my notice (one week).  I started to look for another role immediately, but the bottom seemed to have fallen out of the market and several months went by until I could secure another role.  I am now in that role and really enjoying it.  The prospects are great and I am looking forward to my professional future once more.  However, my salary is not where it had been.  This coupled with the months of having no income have left us short for our wedding.

The Predicament

We were careful not to be excessive in our plans, but even then we are now just a few weeks out and with no way to pay for the final things we need, or the balance on things already committed to (such as the venue).

The Aim

Therefore, I am hoping to raise the money we need in order that our wedding can proceed, and all the guests who have already paid for tickets from the UK will not have wasted journeys.

The Rewards

I will personally write to you to extend my heartfelt appreciation of any donation you can make.

Additionally, I will send photos of our big day to anyone who donates $300 or more.

Additionally, I will play a song of your choosing (assuming it is not offensive) at the reception for anyone who donates $500 or more.

Additionally, I will host (up to 2 people) anyone who donates $1,200 or more in my Sydney accommodation for up to one week (any time between 1st April 2013 and 10th December 2013), or allow you to "house-sit" when we go on our trip to the UK (aiming for Xmas / New Year 2013 / 2014).

Additionally, I would hope to develop some good friendships with anyone who can and is prepared to help - as you are obviously the type of person I respect.