By Molly Flores
Whether inherited from a Disney movie, a fairytale in books or a show on TV, one thing is for certain–many young girls dream of their wedding day long before it ever happens; just like Kenna.
Kenna is a 21 year old from Sherwood, Oregon who, like a lot of women her age, loves to watch the ever-popular TLC show, “Say Yes to the Dress.” The excitement, beauty and emotional moments captured on camera for the show have been a huge part in helping young women create a wedding fantasy of their own. And while not every one of those fantasies comes true, hope keeps these dreams alive.
Four years ago, Kenna was involved in a car accident that left her paralyzed from the waist down. Complications from the accident also led to a bone infection that will ultimately take her life. Not knowing what the future holds for her, Kenna came to terms with the fact that she might not get to fulfill her dream of “saying yes to the dress.” As big of a fan as she is of the show, Kenna’s family and friends wanted to do something to make her dream come true.
An Idea Is Hatched
After numerous phone calls and emails trying to figure out what to do, they came up with the idea to have a private “Say Yes to the Dress” party in Kenna’s own home. They had hoped that they could get a few wedding dresses donated for Kenna to try on; however, after getting in touch with Adorned in Grace, the “party” became so much more than that.
Adorned in Grace was more than happy to donate dresses to the cause, but after hearing Kenna’s story, AIG knew this was an opportunity to share God’s love and shower this spunky young woman with a day she would never forget.
Adorned In Grace’s Director, Linda Tribbett, was thrilled when she heard about the idea. “When I heard that “saying yes to the dress” was on Kenna’s wish list, I immediately thought, ‘Adorned in Grace has been blessed with so many wonderful gifts: beautiful dresses, a beautiful shop, and amazing volunteers who truly enjoy spending time with each and every bride that walks in to our shop and would certainly love to spend time showing Kenna just how loved she is. We have to do this!’”
AIG offered to host a private party for Kenna at the Raleigh Hills bridal shop and best of all…it would be a surprise! And that’s when it all came together…
Kleinfeld’s Steps In
Word got out about Kenna’s surprise party and after hearing about this amazing young woman, people from near and far jumped at the opportunity to help out with this worthy cause. Wedding dresses were donated from all across the country for Kenna to try on – even as far as New York, where Kleinfeld’s Bridal (yes, THAT Kleinfeld’s from Say Yes to the Dress) donated two gorgeous designer gowns, some Say Yes to the Dress swag and even a handwritten letter from one of the hosts of the show, Monte Durham.
*Click here to see the KGW News video of Kenna’s special day
A local hair stylist and makeup artist volunteered to help with Kenna’s big day, along with a professional photographer who was there to capture it all. A beautiful wedding cake and cupcakes were ordered, champagne was brought in and gorgeous flowers were spread throughout the shop.
Kenna, her mother, and a sweet four-legged friend taking photos to remember her special day
Surrounded By Love
While Kenna knew that she would be trying on a few wedding dresses, she had no idea how big of an event it would be. So many friends, family members and community helpers came together beforehand to ensure that it was the perfect day and after seeing her face light up when she came in, they knew it was all worth it.
Between the 20+ wedding dresses that were donated from across the country and the hundreds of dresses at Adorned in Grace, Kenna was able to “Say Yes to the Dress” in a gorgeous lace gown. Her hair and makeup were styled beautifully and the sweetest ballerina flats were provided by her mom (who even added a little bedazzling to make them stand out).
“That is what Adorned in Grace has always been about…using the gifts we are given to bless others.”
One of the biggest surprises of the event came from a close family friend’s son, who gave Kenna a gorgeous Ruby ring (which is her favorite stone). Along with the ring came a touching speech reminding Kenna that she was not only saying “yes” to the dress that day, but also yes to hope and love, like the love that surrounded her that day and every day after.
A Ministry to Anyone Who Walks Through the Door
While Adorned In Grace bridal shops were founded with the purpose of serving women who have experienced or are in danger of experiencing human trafficking, there is a secondary ministry to the brides who come in and who are often surprised by the love and grace they encounter from our volunteers, much like Kenna did on her big day. These magical days that we are so very fortunate to be a part of encompass so much more than helping find that special dress. They are filled with joy and comfort and happiness, all fueled by the love of Jesus Christ.
While it’s not every day you can experience that type of warmth and positivity everywhere you go, we are so happy that it’s not only a part of our foundation for a thriving organization, but also something each and every bride who walks through our doors can count on.
It’s also something that Linda, along with our staff and volunteers, wholeheartedly believes in: “That is what Adorned in Grace has always been about…using the gifts we are given to bless others,” she said.
A few members of the Adorned In Grace/ Compassion Connect team with the lovely Kenna
We are so thankful to have been a part of Kenna’s special day and to have been able to shower her with an abundance of love and happiness. She is an inspiration to us all.
