In the world of weddings, a hefty price tag often accompanies the quest for the perfect celebration. Nancy Leung, co-founder of Simply Wedding N.L., understands this all too well and seeks to make weddings more affordable by repurposing used decorations. Her company, Simply Wedding, not only lessens the financial burden on couples but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing waste.
The initiative gained momentum when Leung, inspired by her own wedding, envisioned repurposing used decorations to make a difference in Newfoundland and Labrador, where weddings are often deemed expensive. Beyond collecting used decorations and items like doughnut walls, Simply Wedding has now extended its reach to wedding flowers.
After the wedding festivities conclude, Simply Wedding collects the flowers and redirects them to a heartwarming purpose—bringing smiles to residents in long-term care facilities. The flowers, once part of a bride’s bouquet or a centerpiece, find new life as they brighten the living spaces of those in long-term care.
This community-driven project was sparked when Leung and her wife, after their wedding, decided to give flowers to their guests. A follower on social media suggested the idea of donating the flowers to the elderly, and that marked the beginning of Simply Wedding’s community project. The team collaborates with industry partners to collect and repurpose flowers for long-term care facilities.
While Leung may not meet the recipients face-to-face, the facility members ensure that the gesture is deeply appreciated. The flowers bring freshness and joy to the long-term care environment, turning something old into something new for those who may otherwise miss out on the charm of wedding blooms.
Nicole Butt, resident care manager and site administrator for Caribou Memorial Veterans Pavillion in St. John’s, attests to the positive impact of fresh flowers in long-term care. The flowers brighten up the space, serve as centerpieces in dining areas, and help residents feel connected to the community.
Simply Wedding N.L. plans to continue collecting flowers until the end of December, creating a delightful second act for wedding blooms and spreading joy to those in long-term care.
