Dumfries and Galloway Life’s ‘Win a Wedding’ prize took an unexpected turn recently, becoming the first ever Respitality wedding. The day came together through generosity, with friends, family, and local supporters all playing their part. Their kindness helped create long lasting memories and a wedding day to remember.

After winning the ‘Win a Wedding’ competition with Dumfries and Galloway Life, Heather chose to donate the prize through the Respitality programme via her local Dumfries and Galloway Carers Centre, giving a local unpaid carer the chance to enjoy their dream wedding day. With thanks to both Dumfries and Galloway Carers Centre and Dumfries and Galloway Life for making it happen.

Read on to discover how a competition entry grew into something truly special for everyone involved.

Emma, a long-term unpaid carer said of her and Simon’s special day:

"Special thanks to Anderson Kilts for the gift of hire of the best man’s kilt, the service was second to none.

Also to the two lovely ladies at Gatehouse who came to my rescue when the florist had to close down and gave me free roam of their gardens to create my own bouquets. Your kindness and generosity I will never forget.

Thanks to DG Life Magazine for the prize of the package at Gretna Old Coach House and Hall. We had a lovely two nights in the new bridal site at Gretna Hall, upgraded by the hotel and the room was perfect for getting ready with my bridal party.

Huge thanks to the lady who so generously donated her prize to the carers’ centre and the DG Carers Centre for choosing us after a long 10 years to win!"

Heather, the original winner of the wedding - and Respitality donor - said:

“I have always been drawn to DG Life magazine - its pages brimming with colour, energy, and stories that capture the spirit of Dumfries and Galloway. Each issue offers something new and exciting, and the magazine never fails to brighten my day. 

One evening, as I was relaxing and flicking through the latest edition, my eye was caught by an announcement: a competition to win a wedding. 'How fantastic', I thought!

With a young relative considering their own wedding plans at the time, and with so much included in the prize, it seemed like a fun opportunity to enter - never for a moment did I think I might actually win it! But, much to my amazement, that’s exactly what happened. 

When Andrea called to share the good news, I nearly fell off my chair in disbelief. Suddenly, I was faced with a rather unexpected dilemma.

My relative had already begun organising their own wedding, so I had to choose: get married again myself, ask Andrea to redraw the winner, or find a couple who truly deserved a wedding but were facing difficult circumstances or financial barriers. 

I knew what to do. I contacted Dumfries and Galloway Carers Centre - an organisation I hold in the very highest regard both professionally and personally."

"To my delight, DG Life were wholeheartedly supportive of me gifting the wedding prize to the carers’ centre. It was a joy to be able to offer this special opportunity, and even more wonderful to hear that Emma, a deserving carer, was able to enjoy a beautiful wedding day as a result.

Congratulations, Emma and Simon - I wish you both a future filled with happiness, laughter, and love. May your lives together be every bit as vibrant as the magazine that made this dream possible!”

With thanks to Heather and all the organisations that supported this special day:

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