Wedding Wednesday - Saying "I Do" (Part 3)

Our ceremony was one of my favorite parts of the whole day, which makes sense since it's the most important part of the day.

In all, I think the whole thing lasted maybe 20 minutes.  Honestly, I had no concept of time at that point.  I don't even know if we started on time.  I had read comments from other brides that they tried to be "in the moment" and note every little thing.  Sadly, that was not me.  Walking down the aisle is such a blur.  A friend had once told me to look at my guests as I was walking down the aisle, to see their faces, smile, and realize these people were all here because they love us.  I remember seeing familiar faces, and smiling at them.  I remember thinking we were probably walking too fast, and being afraid of tripping.   Before I knew it, we were at the head of the aisle standing in front of my groom.

I hugged my dad before he "gave me away" to my groom.

Our officiant did such a wonderful job of crafting a ceremony that was personal to us, funny and touching, and overall extremely meaningful to us and our guests.  I had several guests stop me at the reception and comment on how much they loved the ceremony.  My parents' friends commented that they felt that they really got to know us through the ceremony.  I was so happy to hear that because it was exactly how I wanted it to be.

When we first got up there, she had us face our guests for a little bit.  It felt a little awkward being up there in front of everyone, but I tried to look around and see the face of my friends and family. 

Then she had us go to each of our parents and thank them.  I remember being worried about tripping over my train.  I hadn't planned on having to move around once I was up there.

She talked about how we met and started dating.  She recited the things we had said we love about each other and talked about our dreams for the future.   And she told funny stories about us and our cat Cheeto.   I remember my feet hurting as I was standing up there.  I was trying to shift my weight back and forth, but then got worried that people would notice.  Also, I apparently scrunch my shoulders up whenever I laugh.  Sometimes you don't know these things until you look at 1,200 photographs of yourself!

Then it was time for our vows.  We had each written our own vows and kept them secret from each other.  At this point I was pretty calm and cool.  But the second I started speaking I got choked up and had to stop for a second before continuing.  And again, I apparently make awkward postures when trying to keep from crying.

I think this is the part where I referenced So You Think You Can Dance

Next it was his turn.  He was very calm and cool, at least on the outside.  His vows were funny and thoughtful, just like him.

After our personal vows, we recited traditional vows and exchanged rings.

I love the look on his face here.  Like, "holy cow we're married!"

Then she made our guests vow to support us.  This is us looking out at the crowd thinking "You'd better say I do!"

Then we made it official and kissed!

The guitarist played "Good Lovin'" as we made our way back down the aisle.

We stopped for another kiss and some random bystanders looked on.

And celebrated with some high fives!

Next, it was almost time to party, but not until a few more photographs were taken.  Stay tuned for more formals under the arbor and in the park.

All photos by Kristen Grinnell Photography

Other Wedding Wednesday posts:

Getting Ready With The Girls

The First Look

Family & Group Photos

Ceremony Part 1

Ceremony Part 2