A Daddy and Daughter Kind of Love Story
The gift of moments like this.
Few people have the privilege the Hamilton family gave me on Saturday, 2/22/25. Miranda Hamilton and I met on Facebook, and instantly, I knew we would be friends forever. Miranda posted on social media late Friday night, seeking a photographer for her wedding the next day. I was working late at home and saw the post on my feed. When I saw the message, I was drawn to help. Miranda’s message was, ‘I need a photographer for my wedding Saturday as my Dad is actively dying.’ I knew too well what those words meant. I messaged her and asked her if she had found the help she needed; if not, I volunteered my assistance.
She said someone offered to shoot her wedding but never replied to her. I could feel her disappointment. ‘I asked what do you have for your wedding already?’ Her reply was, ‘I have a dress, that’s it.’ It made me pause, and then I asked when the wedding was. She replied tomorrow at 2:00 PM, and I took another sigh. I replied – ‘Ok, I got you. ‘If you trust me, I can handle everything for you—flowers, decor, music, everything, and a grade-A photographer.’ She replied, “I would be so grateful if you could help me.” So the story began.
What a girl dreams.
Every bride-to-be has a little princess within her. She has dreamed of this moment her entire life—the moment she marries her prince, with her dad proudly walking her down the aisle. No bride envisions spending her special day in a hospital waiting room or walking down the aisle without her father by her side. I wanted to make this day magical for Miranda, the best I could. So, I contacted a few of our Pittsburgh Brides members and asked for their help. Wedding planner Cara, photographer Amy, make-up artist Allena, and musician Stephen stepped up without hesitation! We had less than 18 hours to get everything sorted! But everyone was all in–heart and soul!
In only 18 hours, it’s game day!
Cara and I arrived early at UPMC Shadyside Hospital’s 7th floor and were greeted by the most delightful and cheery team of nurses you could imagine! They quickly helped us set up the room for a wedding in every way they could! Immediately, we all became a team—one with a common goal: Let’s get Dad and Miranda down the aisle!
Angels were everywhere.
All the ‘I-do angels’ worked with each other, decorating, turning a board room into a bridal suite, shaving, and prepping Mark (dad) for his big day, while Cara and I worked on the final details, such as decor, timing, aisle, and music. It was an exhilarating morning for all; the enthusiasm and love were contagious! The swift collaboration between the Pittsburgh Brides pros and the UPMC Shadyside nurses of Posnar Tower’s 7th-floor center was truly incredible! I will never forget this day and the collective effort.
The scene is set
The two o’clock hour is near, and Stephen Gallo plays soft acoustic guitar while Allena Riggo carefully applies the bride’s makeup and helps her get dressed downstairs in a board room turned into a bridal suite! Family, hospital staff, and some patients are entering the waiting room and taking seats near the altar Cara of Caristia Events lovingly created. The mood is undoubtedly wedding vibes, and the hospital sounds are almost obsolete. Everyone in the room eagerly waits to witness this moment.
While Cara and I check on the bride, the nurses get all the family adorned with their boutonnieres and corsages, created by Lisa Myers of Fleur De Lise. The stage is set, the wedding party of the nurses and immediate family is ready, and Dad is dressed, anxious, and ready to go!
Daddy-Daughter first look
Cara, Allena, and I bring Miranda up a hospital elevator to the 7th floor and down the hall to her father’s room. Our nurses/bridesmaids are all waiting behind their stations with huge smiles. I turn and look at the bride and ask, “Would you like to do a first look with your Dad?” She responds with a nod and a smile, and I ask Dad, “Are you ready to see your daughter?” He said YES! I could tell he was 100% running on adrenaline. Miranda walked into the room, and all of our hearts melted. Dad’s eyes were filled with love, and a million stories of them together shined in his eyes. That first glance they shared was the type of moment that took your breath away. One I will never forget.
Now, the next big moment. The nurses get Dad up and in his wheelchair while Miranda gently holds his hand every step down the hospital hallway. Photographer Amy of Jennings Photography snapped photos, and I captured candid and behind-the-scenes footage while the UPMC nurses used everyone’s phones to shoot video. Everyone wants to document every moment for the lovely couple and their family. I am so glad we did. Typically, I am not a fan of a ceremony of cell phones, but for this wedding, it was the greatest gift we could have given the newlyweds.
The couple exchanges vows they wrote for each other, and before the officiant pronounces them Husband and Wife, Miranda turns to her Dad and says, “Dad, I have a letter to read to you; please don’t cry.”
Miranda read:
“I love you. From the moment I came into this world, you have been a guiding light, my protector and my best friend. I’ve always been a daddy’s girl, and that bond has only grown stronger with time. You have been there for every scraped knee, every tear, and every triumph. You’ve taught me how to face the world with courage, how to live with an open heart, and how to always stand tall. Your unwavering support and endless patience have been an anchor grounding me through life’s storms. Dad, your love has been a constant in my life, that foundation upon which I’ve built my dreams. You’ve shown me what it means to be truly selfless, to give without expecting, and to love unconditionally. Your strength, your kindness, and your endless wisdom have shaped me into who I am today. As I look into the future, I carry with me the blessings that you’ve taught me and the love you’ve given me. I’m so proud to be your daughter, and I’m eternally grateful for the bond that we share. You’re my hero and my greatest inspiration. I love you more than life can ever understand, and I will always be your little girl.”
Love endures all things.
When Miranda finished, she leaned into her Dad for a warm and meaningful hug and then turned to the groom, and the newlyweds shared their first kiss! The officiant pronounced them husband and wife! Everyone cheers, and the room is filled with laughter, love, and joy! I was so happy that for a few minutes we could capture them all in the joy of this moment, knowing that it was a little escape from the days prior and the days ahead.
What happened next was unforgettable. Mark stood up, took his daughter’s hands, and held her close as the two danced their father-daughter dance to ‘They Grow Up Too Fast’ by Jimmy Charles. At that moment, every woman in the room was a bride, and every man was a father. With tears streaming down our faces, we all stood in awe, overwhelmed by the raw, unbreakable bond between a father and his daughter. I know that moment will live forever in Miranda’s heart.
With loving memory of Mark Hamilton, I am writing to share this story with you. Thank you, Mark, Miranda, Tyler, Austin, Susie, and Shawn, for permitting us to witness this forever-enduring love story between a father and his daughter.
With gratitude,
Dawn Takacs,
Pittsburgh Brides
Wedding Planner:
Caristia Events, Cara Svetkovitch [email protected]
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/caristiaevents
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caristiaevents/
Makeup Artist:
Allena Riggio
Insta: @armakeupartistrypgh
Guitarist:
Stephen Gallo
https://www.stephengallomusic.com/contact
Florist:
Fleur De Lise, Lisa Myers
Wedding Photography: Jennings Photography, Amy Jennings
https://www.facebook.com/jenningsphotography
UPMC Posnar Tower Center
Nurses on the 7th Floor Center (AKA Bridesmaids and everyday angels!)
