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When your fiance calls off your wedding last minute

You're looking forward to your big day, when your husband-to-be turns around and calls the whole thing off. What do you do?
jilted at the altar

jilted at the altar

There’s no denying it, weddings are an expensive affair.

More and more families forking out dollars in the tens of thousands in order to put together their perfect celebration, in the spirit of love, life and enduring commitment.

But what happens if, after deposits have been paid, bills are due, and your husband-to-be turns around and calls it all off?

One American family were left devastated when their daughter’s fiance got cold feet before the big day, when $50,000 (NZ) had already been spent on the occasion.

The Duanes, from California, are the epitome of turning a truly crappy situation into an opportunity to give back.

As it was too late to cancel the event or get a refund, the unlucky bride’s parents threw a reception for Sacremento’s homeless population.

A gourmet dinner that had originally been thought up for 120 wedding guests, was served out to those from a local shelter. With dishes such as salmon, beef and gnocchi on offer, the attendees had plenty to fill their bellies with.

“I feel a lot of heartache and heartbreak” for my daughter, Kari Duane, the would-be-bride’s mother told KRCA

“But I will take away something really good from this.”

Sacremento has more than 2,600 homeless people, and as a district have been struggling to combat the problem in recent years.

And the people who attended the reception were certainly grateful for the Duane’s gift.

“When you’re going through a hard time and a struggle, for you to get out and do something different — and with your family — is really a blessing,” homeless Rashad Abdullah explained to KCRA.

Erika Craycraft said it was an exceptionally kind gesture, considering their sad circumstances.

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