Despite losing my gown to a flood, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to appear on ‘Say Yes to the Dress’ with TLC.
Back in 2016, my wedding plans were thrown into disarray when my Louisiana home was hit by a flood, destroying my precious wedding gown. My fiancé and I considered pushing back our wedding date, unsure of how to move forward. But then, a glimmer of hope appeared in the form of an online request from “Say Yes to the Dress,” seeking brides-to-be affected by the flood.
Thanks to a friend’s nomination, I was selected to appear on the show’s special episode. My time on “Say Yes to the Dress” taught me five surprising things that have stayed with me ever since. These lessons have helped me remain positive and resilient in the face of challenges, and I’m excited to share them with you.
I may be the only bride who received a free dress on the show
I selected a Mark Zunino gown and Kleinfield’s own collection of jewelry.TLC
Normally, the “Say Yes to the Dress” team starts by breaking down your budget, but because my original wedding gown was destroyed, I received a free dress.
During my episode, I shared the heartbreaking story of how my belongings were destroyed in a devastating flood. However, I received exceptional support and care from Randy Fenoli, a renowned bridal designer, and his team. To my surprise, “Say Yes” generously flew my husband and me to New York, where we were accommodated in a luxurious hotel located near Times Square.
Losing all our possessions in the flood was a traumatic experience for my family. But being able to transform from a state of despair to wearing a stunning Mark Zunino gown, Jimmy Choo shoes, and Kleinfield’s exquisite collection of jewelry was an incredible contrast.
Fenoli really is an angel and we even shared a personal connection
Randy Fenoli helped me feel confident and cared for on my wedding day.TLC
As the filming progressed, I could sense the deep connection that Fenoli shared with the individuals who collaborated to showcase my story. I am immensely thankful for the opportunity to share my journey of planning a wedding that seemed impossible, and I cannot express my gratitude enough to the team who made me feel incredibly beautiful and supported.
Throughout the experience, I discovered that Fenoli had a personal connection to natural disasters, having grown up in Louisiana and experienced the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina firsthand. He was even trapped in a two-story apartment in New Orleans during the catastrophic storm in 2005.
I think my experience touched him because it was a story that was so close to home.
I still talk to Fenoli to this day and he featured my story in a special season-17 episode where he discussed his most memorable brides.
One thing I appreciated about the show was that it was completely unscripted, allowing the crew to capture my authentic reactions and emotions. However, I soon realized that if I said something amusing, endearing, or impressive, I could expect to see that scene replayed numerous times.