So from what I can tell from your description of the project, you need a very simple project done really quickly, with minor but impactful visual effects. Speed would be key for such a project, and I could get an initial edit done in just a couple of hours.
For a slideshow two programs could be used, a traditional slideshow software such as Microsoft Powerpoint, or a proper video editing software such as Vegas Pro, however since you wish for it to be put to a DVD, I assume you would want it as a video with chapter selection optimally. Getting such a thing done and burned to a CD would be quite an easy job for me, though shipping will be an issue for your location in comparison. Should the project be done quickly and priority mail is used, the project should be ready by the time you require it.
Any additional details to the project would be helpful, I'm sure you want such a slideshow to be special and important, to be personal. I am flexible and open to what you want for such an important project.