Bride turns canceled wedding into chance to help the needy

UPPER EAST SIDE, Manhattan (WABC) -- A woman has turned her heartbreak into an act of generosity after calling off her wedding.

The former bride-to-be decided to shift what would have been her wedding reception into a celebration for strangers in need.

Yuri Sun said yes to the ring, dress and venue, but no to the prenuptial agreement, cancelling her wedding just a few months before the big day.

And now, she is redefining happily ever after, using her reserved reception space at the Harold Pratt House to host

a special luncheon for less-fortunate kids and families.

"I wanted to be the princess of my wedding day," she said. "If some other people can feel happier or some fun adding to their Mother's Day weekend, that would be great."

Sun still hopes to execute the pre-planned fairy-tale theme, with the help of some of her wedding guests who will be volunteers. The kids attending were selected through The Salvation Army and Inwood House.

"It's an opportunity for kids my age and people who might not otherwise get to experience the atmosphere at the place," attendee William Natal said.

He plans to bring his little brother and mom, and he was thrilled to receive an invitation.

"I think it's a very selfless act, and it's something that I greatly appreciate," he said. "And I'm sure everybody who's going to be there appreciates it."

About 65 children and family members are expected to attend the luncheon Saturday.