REPUBLIC, Mo. — One young girl in the Ozarks was able to make her dream a reality this week.

Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, 15-year-old Jennifer Aguinaga was able to be a princess for a day.

The Aguinaga family was able to visit Disney World as part of Make-A-Wish back in July.  This week, that trip was followed up with a big princess party at the Old Towne Event Center in Republic. 

Before the party, there was a big photo shoot for her.

“It means a lot just to be able to donate your time to help somebody else out,” said MJR Photography Owner Michael Rogers.  “It makes you feel good inside.”

“It’s amazing seeing her and meeting her,” said Pin Up Salon Owner Emily Park.  “And how happy her face lit up when she saw her hair and makeup being done– it’s incredible.”

“It’s an honor– it’s actually pretty special to be a part of this,” said Old Towne Event Center Owner Carol Ann Haake.

Jennifer has a life-threatening illness. 

“Make a wish grants wishes to kids with life threatening illnesses,” said Wish Granter Melanie Ricke.  “It enhances their life — we do fun stuff and all kinds of wishes for kids.”

“For four to five years, it’s been her dream to go to Disney and be a princess,” said Jennifer’s Father, Guillermo Aguinaga.  “The Disney trip was a wonderful trip that made all her dreams come true.”

Several vendors got together to make sure Jennifer’s wish came true.  Those vendors include:

Touch of Class, which provided the dress.

S B Bon, which provided linens.

Old Towne Event Center, which provided a place for the party and photos.

Pin Up Salon, which provided hair and makeup.

MJR Photography

Meadows Images

Tini’s Treats

“I would like to thank God, first of all, for the wishes granted today and everything that happened today,” said Aguinaga.  “I want to thank all of the vendors.  We are very grateful for making this happen for our daughter.  We can’t be more grateful.”

“It’s just been an amazing thing,” said Ricke.  “And this is a dream come true for her.”

Several kids from Springfield Catholic School also volunteered, including Justin Haake, Drew Davis, Madelyn Moses, Gabrielle Moses, and Katie Kendrick.  Also, Karmen Hales from Cherokee Middle School.