When I got the news that my third niece Grace was getting married this year, I could hardly believe it. It feels like just yesterday she was that adorable little flower girl in my wedding. Fast forward 16 years, and here we were in September, celebrating her wedding to her wonderful fiance, Merlin. The anticipation surrounding the event was palpable, and it was clear that this day was going to be extraordinary.
The weekend was a whirlwind of emotions, planning, and delightful chaos. With the help of my amazing friends and staff, (and Grace's planning) we brought Grace's dream wedding to life.
Grace looked absolutely stunning. All my nieces took my breath away and made me so emotional to see them standing before me, ready to start forever. Grace picked the perfect dress for her. It was hard to reconcile the little girl I had known all those years ago with the beautiful woman standing in front of me, ready to start this new chapter of her life. As I watched her walk down the aisle, I felt a mix of pride and nostalgia wash over me. I remembered the days when she spun in circles at our wedding, or ran around in a clash of chaos with all the cousins at holidays, all the while no doubt, dreaming of this moment.
As the celebration unfolded, it was a joy to see family members, especially the cousins, dancing and soaking in the atmosphere. Watching them laugh and take pictures together reminded me of my own childhood memories with my cousins and the connections that still bind us.
Every detail Grace meticulously planned was on display at the event. From the breathtaking centerpieces carefully crafted from wood from our family farm by my talented Father in Law to the perfect color scheme and dresses chosen for her bridesmaids, Grace's hard work truly showed. She selected a color palette of Desert Rose/Dusty Rose that not only complemented the venue but also highlighted her other choices beautifully.
One of the most touching moments of the day was when Grace's younger sister, Theresa, wore the same dress that Grace had donned at our wedding. A dress made by my talented Mother In law and preserved all these years to be worn again! This beautiful nod to our family's shared history symbolized how far we have all come together. It was a poignant reminder that love and tradition run deep in our family.
As guests filled the venue, you could feel the love in the air. It was evident in the way Grace and Merlin looked at each other, like they were the only two people in the room. According to a survey, 70% of couples feel a more profound connection after their wedding day, and it certainly rang true for Grace and Merlin, as seen by their shared smiles and laughter.
Having a venue where my family could come together and celebrate such a joyful occasion made me incredibly grateful. It highlighted the importance of having a space that fosters lasting memories with loved ones. It’s moments like these that reinforce the idea that family isn’t just about blood; it’s about love and connection.
As the night progressed, my heart swelled with gratitude—not just for the beautiful wedding, but for the bonds that hold us as a family. Seeing Grace marry Merlin further underscored how blessed we are to find love and share our lives with those we care about most.
Reflecting on the little flower girl who once scattered petals as she walked down the aisle, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of joy. The happiness she brought into our lives has only multiplied as she has blossomed into an extraordinary woman. Each of us played a role in her journey to this day, and it brought tears of joy to my eyes to see her step into her future.
As the day came to a close, I felt a bittersweet ache knowing that while this chapter for Grace and Merlin was just beginning, the nostalgic moments of childhood would remain in our hearts forever. Their wedding was not just about the union of two people; it was a celebration of family, love, and the shared history that continues to shape us.
Witnessing Grace's journey from a flower girl to a stunning bride has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. It reminded me of the value of love, family, and the magical moments that define who we are. And I was blessed this year to celebrate this feeling THREE times as not only did Grace marry her Merlin, but Katie married her Heath, and Marie her Collin. All of which I will blog about also!
I wish Grace and Merlin endless happiness. Their love is evident, and I am excited for all the beautiful adventures ahead of them.
So here's to love, laughter, and happily ever after!
Images by: Shots by Bridge & Beau Peterson Photography
Comments