Once in a while, people remind me how much good there is in the world and it makes me remember how truly kind we can be to one another. I always say I have the best clients – they’re supportive, generous, and never cease to amaze me with their thoughtful words and actions. Well a few days ago, Jena + Anthony proved exactly why I love the people I work with.

For those that haven’t been following my blog/Facebook page, I’ve been running a Vermont Contest for a 2-night stay at Amee Farm. It was such a success and I’m thrilled I was able to offer this to my 2013 clients. Not only was it so exciting to watch the votes tally up and see the leaders fluctuate, but over 600 people voted and my Facebook page received over 400 new fans. It was a tight race that came down to the wire, but Jena + Anthony took the late lead minutes before midnight and finished it out with 175 votes. Jackie + Mark came close with an impressive 170, but it just wasn’t enough to beat their fellow Immaculate Conception alum. All of my couples reached out to their friends and family to vote and I’m so thankful for everyone’s participation and enthusiasm for my first contest ever. But that’s not my favorite part of the story.

Shortly after the contest closed, I emailed Jena + Anthony to let them know they won and inform them of the next steps to book their stay at the lodge. I received the following reply from Anthony:

“Hey Jill, That’s awesome and thank you. However, we want to start 2014 in the right way. Can we give our trip to the married couple, Elyce and Dan? I understand he is in the military and currently fighting in Afghanistan. I read that in a comment. Myself and Jena are huge advocates of supporting our troops and if they accepted the trip, we would be truly honored.” 

And with that, I’d like to announce the winners of the 2013 Vermont Contest – ELYCE AND DAN! I am absolutely honored to give this prize to you, and I cannot think of a more deserving couple. Elyce and Dan, on behalf of the JT Photo family, THANK YOU for your dedication, courage, and sacrifice to serve and protect our country. I am so proud to have been a part of your wedding day and I can’t wait for the two of you to enjoy this little getaway together when Dan gets back 🙂 Congratulations and God Bless!

After hearing the news, a tearful Elyce asked me to share this with everyone…

“I wanted to take a minute to express how truly appreciative Dan and I are for Anthony and Jena’s selfless gift. Dan and I were married in April and have not had the opportunity to take a honeymoon. Dan was deployed to Afghanistan a couple months ago. It has been very difficult for us to adjust to this new way of life. I am so proud of the sacrifices and hard work Dan has put into his service for our country.

We are so thankful for the support of our friends and family. We want Anthony and Jena to know that your kindness has touched us in ways that can never be explained. We want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts. This gift will only be topped by Dan’s safe return to us. We hope the New Year brings health and happiness to you and yours!”