A woman has admitted to feeling ashamed of her vindictive act of throwing black paint over her sister-in-law’s wedding dress on her special day. Antonia Eastwood, 49, shocked guests by carrying out the attack on Gemma Monk, 35, at Oakwood House Register Office in Maidstone, Kent in May 2024. This incident led to Antonia receiving a 10-month suspended prison sentence.

Despite the disruptive act, Gemma persevered and continued with the ceremony after changing into a different outfit. Antonia, speaking publicly for the first time since her sentencing, expressed regret, stating, “I feel ashamed of myself. It’s not me. I’ve never been in trouble with the police before.”

The feud between the two women dates back to a previous incident at a wedding in 2023, leading to Antonia and her husband not being invited to Gemma’s wedding. Antonia, residing in Manchester, was convicted at Maidstone Crown Court for causing criminal damage. The court disclosed that the costs for repairs and losses at Oakwood House amounted to at least £5,000.

Gemma shared how the paint attack had a lasting impact on her, causing her to question herself and lose her sense of self. She described the incident as turning what should have been her most special day into a nightmare. Gemma’s wedding dress, eyes, face, and skin were splattered with black paint during the assault.

Both Gemma and her family have struggled to overcome the traumatic experience. Gemma reflected on the emotional toll, mentioning that the incident has left her questioning her own actions and struggling to maintain her daily routine. Despite the challenges, Gemma expressed relief that her sister-in-law received a suspended sentence for the attack.