I remember the initial call from the Pacific Northwest so fondly …
Planning from afar can be a daunting task, but Jessica and Mike did it with grace and laughter – a true testament to “don’t sweat the small stuff”.
Their day was filled with the personal touches of a couple that make the moment so real: the bride’s grandfather driving her to the church in his antique cadillac; the officiant pausing to mop the groom’s face as the tears began to fall; a ceremony that was so incredibly moving.
Jessica and Mike’s shared their love of wine during their nuptials by incorporating a “wine ceremony”, a toast and a few appropriate words of wisdom from the officiant:
“The years of our lives are a cup of wine poured out for us to drink. The grapes, when they are pressed give forth their good juices for the wine. Under the wine press of time our lives give forth their labor and honor and love. Many days you will sit at the same table and eat and drink together. Drink now, and may the cups of your lives be sweet and full to running over.”
The couple continued to share their love of wine with guests at the reception by serving some of their favorite wines from their home state of Oregon.
But I have to admit that my favorite part of the entire day was watching the bride dance with her father; I was brought to tears. I have since filed it away as one of my favorite wedding moments ever – I remember every minute of it. As a matter of fact, did you know I danced with MY dad to the same song at MY wedding?
Cheers Jessica and Mike! … to you and your fourth anniversary. I am a better person for sharing in your day.
Wishing you continued love and laughter in your many years to come. May the road always rise up to meet you.
Ceremony Location: Spurwink Church, Cape Elizabeth, ME
Officiant: Julie Draper
Organist: Sylvia Infantine
Reception Location: Ri Ra Irish Pub, Portland, ME
Rentals: One Stop Party Shoppe
Flowers: Yarmouth Flower Company
Photographer: Chris Riley, Riley Photographic
Music: Mike Mahoney, M & M Entertainment (DJ)
(Photos: Chris Riley, Riley Photographic)
