We always feel blessed to work with the couples that we are sent, and are often in awe of the beautiful vows, sentimental moments, and genuine laughs that we get to hear and bear witness to at each wedding. Rob and Deb’s wedding will forever be one of our favorites!
When we met Debra, she told us about herself, Rob, and their three children. Together they were already a family, but wanted to make it official before friends, family, and most importantly-before God. Deb had met Rob when she was already a mother to her oldest child-and admits that she was immediately attracted.
Through the years, as their love grew for each other, and their relationship continued, they had two more children together, and shared laughs, tears, happiness, and hardship. Just as every couple has to learn to live and love together, while Rob and Deb experienced a lot of happy times, they also struggled together. But even in their struggle, they found light.
Together, they joined a wonderful church, attended couple studies together, and began sharing the Word with their children. They accepted Jesus into their lives, and became united in the Covenant. Their beautiful story of unity and redemption truly moved us, and became even more special as we watched and documented their day.
They chose to have an intimate backyard wedding at her parent’s house-the place where they had first met, and a place that was special to them. Deb began the morning by getting ready with her mom, her daughters, and other close family; while Rob did the same with his son, and closest friends and family.
Just before the ceremony, although the two did not want to have a first look, they each united in prayer circles in the same room. You could feel the love and energy as their family and loved ones prayed together with them, and expressed how much they truly believe in them and their union.
Father and daughter did share a first look, and it was one of the most emotional we have seen…
Their ceremony was short but sweet; filled with scripture, prayer, communion and the tying of a unity braid. They exchanged rings and a kiss, and were pronounced husband and wife to claps and cheers.
May we present, Mr. and Mrs. Stanley!!!!
The bridal party never looked so good! And we had fun taking a few photos just before the reception got underway.
The toasts were eloquently delivered by all, but perhaps the sweetest moment was when their oldest daughter was given the microphone. She had carried herself beautifully throughout the entire wedding, and looked just a bit nervous as she stood amongst the crowd-but she looked directly into Rob’s eyes, as her small voice carried across the backyard, surely, but slightly wavering with emotion as she began the toast with the words: “I never knew what it was like to have a dad, until I was given you…” As you can imagine, the emotion remained intense, and there were few dry eyes during the entirety of her speech. She was embraced tightly by mom and dad at the conclusion after having ended with “…our family is perfect, even if we are slightly imperfect people.” There is no truer testament than a child’s words.
The evening finished with plenty of dancing, cake, and laughter. The day couldn’t have been more perfect for this beautiful couple and amazing family.
We couldn’t be happier for this amazing couple! Every couple has their story, and theirs is definitely one for the storybooks. And in going forward, as they spend the rest of their lives together, may they remember: “God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them." Ephesians 4:2: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."
