Letter to the Editor - Community’s Generosity Is Something To Behold

Please add this to the many stories of how “in time of need” the great people of Mariposa stand without hesitation, ready to help out however they can. To be on the receiving end of this community’s generosity is something to behold and is truly magical. We would like to share our story and give thanks as many have before us.

Recently, the parents of Sam Gurr and Heather Spence (sweethearts for over 4 years) found themselves planning a wedding with about two weeks notice. As word got out that these two wonderful young adults were tying the knot on the news of welcoming a new family member, we were instantly surrounded by an abundance of family/friend support and community outreach, so distinctive of the Mariposa lifestyle we enjoy here.

As the story goes, once the date was determined the Spence family sought to find a Pastor and Church venue, while the Gurr’s sought the venue for a Rehearsal dinner. Both intersected at Triangle Café in the capable hands of April and Beth, with their offer to host both the dinner and the ceremony/reception! Their promise to set up a memorable wedding and help out on such short notice overwhelmed the Bride and she eagerly accepted. Brent Schroder (guitarist) entered the Café during the conversation and Beth and April encouraged him to audition for the Bride there and then. He offered to perform a wedding march he had written and, as he played, the Bride’s smile said it all. And with that, we now had live music for the Ceremony and the Reception dinner.

Within days, the Bride and her sister (Maid of Honor) together with their mom found that perfect dress, décor and Groomsman attire. The Brides brother was able to stand in for their Father (who could not attend) to give her away and the Groom’s long time friend, Nico, would drive up from Los Angeles to stand by his side. Mountain Flowers assisted with the floral needs and the cake would be designed and made by the Brides stepsister.

Our focus then turns toward the minister referrals for the ceremony. Through a series of events destined to take us up to the eleventh hour, the Gurr’s received a referral from their neighbor, Katee, suggesting her sister Laura Hoyman (Yosemite Vows). Instantly, Laura met Sam and Heather she unswervingly wrapped these two kids facing life’s most challenging gift, with her faith, love and understanding.

And so, on October 8th, 2011 The Triangle Café Courtyard and stage was transformed into the perfect wedding chapel. Bride and Groom stood proudly as Laura delivered such an inspirational service tailored to their circumstance, uniting them in marriage before their family and friends. Most in attendance spoke of being left in AWE of her service and leadership. The meal, set-up, service and guest support provided by Beth and April was incredible. Music and wedding march performed by Brent blended perfect with venue.

The families would like to extend their gratitude to many friends, family as well as the perfect strangers who extended complimentary accommodations for out-of-town guest, the chairs on loan by from Butterfly Creek Winery. Thank you also to the VIP’s missing from the ceremony for their understanding of the time and space limitations, and to those of you who offered your time throughout and during the setup, even donating pieces of their silver serving set. All of you added those extra touches to produce a very beautiful event in a very short amount of time. And, a special thank you to Sam’s Grandfather and who captured images of the ceremony on camera. Let the smiles pictured from the Bride and Groom express our sincere…Thank you!

We are truly blessed to live a good life here surrounded by you all.

Gurr, Spence and Lastra Families