For You I've Waited All The Years....

You may have noticed that there was one notable "event" left out of my summer in review blog. No I didn't forget... I just figured it deserved a blog of it's own. Brian and I tied the knot on July 4th. It was a gorgeous day and everything was perfect. It all turned out better than I ever could have imagined and it feels wonderful to finally be Mrs. Shuart!

Picture courtesy of our wonderful photographer Jessica Kirsch

I always wanted an outdoor wedding and my sister Barbie's backyard in Ubly was the perfect location for it. The landscaping, pond, bridge, gazebo, basically everything looked wonderful. One guest described it as a "backyard paradise". The ceremony itself was short, sweet, and just had that intimate, personal feel to it. Our good friend Geoff Ferris played a beautiful rendition of one of my favorite Coldplay songs "Til Kingdom Come" as I walked down the aisle. The moment was almost surreal and I was doing sooo good at not crying until I walked over the bridge and into Brian's eyes, which were very teary. And so I cried... but not too much because I made a promise to myself not to ruin my make-up ;) I get gosebumps every time I listen to the song now, reliving that moment over and over in my head. I'd have to say it's in my top 5 (along with the proposal and birth of my children).

As for our beautiful flower girl and handsome ring bearers- I think they stole the show. They walked up the aisle perfectly, throwing petals the whole way. The cutest part was when they paused at the end of the bridge and threw every last petal. They had to make sure the basket was empty. I think everyone would agree they were adorable.

The reception was also exactly as I dreamed- white garden chairs, white tablecloths, chandeliers, candles, flower centerpieces, table runners made to match the bridesmaids dresses, personalized boonesfarm bottles for the toast (my fave!), a sweet candy buffet, and 3 perfect cakes.

And of course the best part was the tent being filled with our closest famiy and friends. Dinner was great, drinks were plenty, and the DJ played until approx 2 in the morning as the guests socialized and danced the night away.

So when people ask about the wedding, the word I most often use to describe it is "PERFECT!" I just wish I could do it all again... and again... and again! And I wouldn't change a thing.