A grateful newly-wed has been left lost for words after the kindness of strangers meant her terminally ill mother got to see her walk down the aisle.
Jessica Goodwin, 27, planned to marry fiance Ayden James, 26, in a dream wedding in November next year and both were saving up cash for the big day.
But she had to move it forward by more than a year after her mum was given less than 12 months to live.
The couple were resigned to settling for a day on the cheap with a pizza reception after Jess’ mum, Jane Hall, was diagnosed with incurable liver cancer in February.
But thanks to crowdfunding websites the pair from Bedford, Beds., were inundated with over £5,000 in donations and offers to help them create the perfect day.
Nursery worker Jessica said: “The entire day went off without a hitch which was incredible as it was put together in such a short time.
“I am lost for words and do not have the words to describe it, it was just completely magical from the moment I woke up to the time I went to bed that night.
“We got ready at mum‘s and she even managed the whole day after having a rest halfway through and I am so glad she got to see us get married.
“To be able to have a perfect wedding day that my mum was there for was more than I ever thought could happen and I am more grateful than I have ever been.”
The couple tied the knot on July 23 at the Transfiguration Church in Kempston followed by the breakfast and reception at Pavenham Golf Club in Bedford.
The Goodwin-James newly-weds who are parents to Kovu, four, Romeo, three, and nine-month-old Eric, got engaged in August last year after 11-years together.
But thanks to the kindness of the public, Jessica and Ayden had the wedding cars, cake and dress free of charge as well as flowers donated and free entertainment.
Mum Jane, 51, who has always been healthy, was found to have two tumours, both bigger than her liver which are inoperable.
She said: “The day was truly magical and quite emotional but in a good way.
“I am so grateful to everyone who made it possible in just five months so that I could be there.
“Everything was perfect, the whole day was so special.”
Jessica said the whole day went without a hitch, except for the moment one of her bridesmaids accidentally forgot the rings.
She also said at one point back in March the family were worried Jane might not make it but on the wedding night she was one of the last ones dancing.
Jessica added: “We got to mum’s house at half seven and she had a nap between the meal and reception for two hours but she came back and didn’t leave until the last person left.
“She was dancing as well and she didn’t need her wheelchair.
“It was very emotional but in a good way as well.”
On the day the couple had three photographers taking snaps free of charge at Pavenham Park Golf Club which also provided a marquee for no fee.
