The Villager Newspaper Online Your Community News – Cleveland's Westshore
It only took six months for Darrin Laughlin, 33, and Keri Simon, 32, to get engaged. Thirteen years later and with the help of more than 20 area businesses, their dream wedding came true in the most unique way.
The couple was nominated for Crocker Park’s “Sealed in the Snow Globe” contest, which chose one deserving couple to receive an all-expense paid wedding in the Bob Gillingham Snow Globe, a life-size snow globe located at Crocker Park. The Snow Globe made its debut in 2014 at Crocker Park during the holiday season. It was the site of thousands of keepsake photos and several marriage proposals. Because of its popularity, Crocker Park held a Facebook contest for anyone interested in getting married inside the globe for Valentine’s Day. The winning package included everything they’ll need for the wedding, including an all-expense-paid honeymoon!
Laughlin and Simon were nominated by a family member for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. They were chosen due to their community involvement and passion for improving the lives of children. In addition to being teachers in the Fairview Park District, both coach numerous youth sports and together coached the Cleveland Reviving Baseball Inner Cities (RBI) Softball Team that won the RBI World Series Title last year.
The couple decided to purchase a home together in Fairview Park which, combined with their hectic schedules, forced them to put a formal wedding on the backburner. After hearing the couple’s heartwarming story, donations came pouring in. Thanks to this overwhelming show of community support, every aspect of the wedding and honeymoon was donated for the Laughlin Wedding.
