“Once in awhile, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale”

— Anonymous

Molly and Nick had just shared their incredibly heartfelt vows with each other, they had jumped with excitement for that first kiss and were ready to be announced to run down the aisle into their new life together and Donnie, the pastor, her father, said he had a surprise for them.

He shared a story of how Nick’s family, every year at Christmas held stockings for their children’s future spouses. They prayed over them and for the life that they would some day have with this person, knowing that these moments brought before God mattered and would make a difference in the people who would some day be a part of their family. Donnie then pulled the stocking from behind the arbor and handed it to Nick to give to Molly. You could hear the gasps across the room.

Next, he shared how they had also prayed as a family over their daughters’ future spouses and how Molly had made promises and vows from a very early age to her God and to her future spouse, to remain pure of body, heart and mind. She wore a promise ring to signify this huge commitment. Donnie, pulled the ring out of his pocket and handed it to Molly to give to Nick. All the handkerchiefs in the room gained a few tears in that moment. These two have been made for each other, prayed for, sought after and now finally joined for life.

In what was arguably the most anticipated wedding of the year for so many people, myself included, everyone got to experience a love like no other. These two families have such a deep and powerful love for each other, it radiates throughout the entire church. I have been mentored by all 4 of their parents in various capacities through the years and I mentored Molly through middle and high school. The deep well of connection and love we all have for each other is palpable.

One of my favorite parts of the day was, of course, their first look. It was brought up several times in toasts, their self written vows, the sermon, just what an adventurer Molly is and how Nick adores her for it so there was no question as to whether or not they’d be willing to go a bit off the beaten path in order to get the best photos. We had to drag some fallen trees out of the way and push through the brush a bit, but it was worth it for these magical moments. I love couples willing to do what it takes for the best light.

If there’s any moment in a wedding that is going to get me teary-eyed, it’s always the moments involving beautiful father-daughter relationships. I’m lucky enough to have a great relationship with my dad and when someone else does too it brings on all the feels. This day was even more so because not only does Molly have a great relationship with her dad, but Donnie has been like a father and mentor to me in many ways through the years. We have similar back stories and as he was getting emotional during the sermon talking about his little girl growing up I couldn’t help but be proud of her and thankful for the huge circle that has tied us all together so tightly.

Every single detail from the welcome signs to the desserts were DIY projects completed by the whole family. It was even Nick’s idea to write thoughtful notes to every family in attendance. With much anticipation, so many wonderful people from the church family helped with set up and tear down. Having been a newly planted church just a few years back it is built into the DNA of the people to jump in and help wherever needed and that was realized in real life for this couple that has been so well loved by us all.

Molly and Nick I cannot thank you enough for letting me be a part of your day and your lives. I love you both for exactly who you are as individuals and who I know you will become as a couple. So excited for this next chapter.

The Vendors and Friends who made the Day Possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Venue: Lifepointe Church

Coordinators: Cinda Williams and Leslie Arthur

Her Dress: Reagan Dress from BHLDN

His Suit: Reaction by Kenneth Cole

Bridesmaid Dresses: Pink Blush

Groomsmen Attire: H&M & Etsy

Engagement Ring: Minimal VS

Wedding Bands: Brummitt Studio

Florist: Dave Duty

Officiants: Rob Perry and Donnie Williams