I want to thank David and Ashley for letting me set up a booth at this incredible event. They had invited me to the Bridal Fair in October. That’s where I met Chelsea from Laneige Bridal, and we put together the first annual SWF Night Out.
When I arrived on Friday to set up my booth, I told David and Ashley about meeting Chelsea at the Bridal Fair in October, and how it led to the SWF Night Out. They were very happy, and asked me if I would say a few words at the vendor meeting. They wanted me to let the other vendors know about the Foundation and how networking at these events can produce some positive results. I immediately agreed. I always enjoy letting people know about the Foundation.
One of the main parts of the Bridal Fair was a money booth set up by Idaho Central Credit Union. They had everyone register, and would randomly select names for contestants to enter the money booth. Contestants could win door prizes the vendors had donated. The Foundation donated a SWF sweatshirt, two SWF t-shirts, and a SWF cap. Before Ashley announced the first three contestants, she said, “Before we start, we want to thank the Shannon Wilker Foundation for being here and for the tremendous work they do in our community. Please stop by their booth and support them.” I was overcome with gratitude for those kind words. Ashley continued to acknowledge the Foundation throughout each day. I had a lot of people come to the booth, and tell me it was a wonderful thing I was doing. I sold more raffle tickets than I had before, and I know it’s because of Ashley’s endorsements.
There were so many wonderful experiences, that I can’t begin to name them all. I do want to tell you about Saturday and the fashion show. Ashley came over Saturday morning, and asked if I wanted to donate another sweatshirt for the fashion show. Then she said, “I want to introduce you, and have you let people know about your Foundation, and the great work it does. I want everyone to know how special it is. And then could you say a few words about how important and beneficial these events are?” “I’d love to,” I replied.
When Ashley introduced me, the first thing I said was, “Before I start, I don’t think any of us realize how much demanding work and effort it takes to put something like this together, so let’s all give Ashley a big round of applause. I said a few words about the Foundation, and its purpose and goals. Then I said, “I’m so grateful to be part of this wonderful event. These events are important because they allow these great vendors to help these wonderful brides. But the best thing I have witnessed, is the happiness it brings to these couples as they begin to make such special memories together. This is just the start of many memories they will make and cherish together. Because, I can personally tell you, when it’s all said and done, you don’t think about anything you did in sports or your career. You remember the great times you spent together.”
I am grateful for my special memories of my Angel Shannon. I will always LOVE AND MISS YOU sweetheart.
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