November 19, 2022 was a different kind of special to me. From working hard on timing and logistics, to getting ready with the girls and watching my daughter have her first flower girl duties. . . You see, on this day, my bride was my sister. I got to travel back to Iowa and be a matron of honor over wedding coordinator. So, I write this blog a little differently today. Instead of sharing the design details, logistics and planning story, I’m sharing the beautiful emotion of the day I was so fortunate to experience.
The ceremony was in a quaint, small-town church with about 50 of Mariah and Tyler’s closest friends and family. The couple chose to forgo a first look for the traditional aisle reveal. And it couldn’t have been more perfect. Tyler was tearing up in anticipation as we waited, and when he laid eyes on her, he was overcome with emotion. I can only imagine her beauty, faithfulness and her own raw emotion spoke volumes to him in that moment. When Mariah turned the corner, there were no nerves visible; she was so clearly ready to see her groom, with a big smile and happy tears welling.
One thing I’ve always known about Mariah as an adult is that her relationship with Jesus is first and foremost. Their pastor even said, “Tyler, you were a smart man. It didn’t take long for you to realize that if you wanted to get to know Mariah, you were going to have to get to know Jesus.” And he proceeded to share their personal journeys with the Lord and their own desires for their marriage as not two, but three.
If there was ever a ceremony that authentically showed the love of Jesus, this was the one. And it naturally flowed into the reception, too.
Since most reception guests didn’t witness the intimate ceremony, Mariah wanted to incorporate time for friends and family to pray over them. We chose to add this time between toasts and dances, and it flowed beautifully. It was such a short part of the reception, but I bet it’s the part Mariah and Tyler will remember most in 40 years.
Soon after, it was time to party! The dance floor was full and the mic was open for karaoke renditions of favorites.
If there’s one word to describe the day, it would be authentic. Love radiated from beginning to end – love for their family and friends, love for each other, and love for the Lord. I’m so excited to see marriage unfold for Mariah and Tyler. Cheers to the newlyweds – here’s to forever!
The Wedding Day Team
- Venue: Stanton’s Old Lumber Yard
- Photography: Emma’s Photo Co
- Florist: The Farmer’s Daughters
- DJ: Greg Bower
- Hair and Make-up: Noble Art by Mariah
- Catering: Spanky & Buckwheat’s Catering
- Cake: Eileen Bisbee
Absolutely gorgeous day, Bride, Groom, venue, photos!!! Everything was beautiful!! I had the honor of designing Mariah’s flowers for her special day. She and Tyler and her Mother Shawn were awesome to work with. Congratulations and many many blessings to this beautiful couple!!!!
Thank you so much for your words! The flowers were absolutely stunning!