Beautiful Wedding at Highgrove for Jenny and Derek!

Jenny and Derek called me in July to officiate their wedding on September 3, 2011. It was short notice but I was so glad I was available. They were making plans quickly and had fortunately been able to book the lovely estate of Highgrove in Fuquay-Varina for the ceremony--one of my favorite venues. Their reception was at their home not too far away. Ann Eberle of Highgrove was their wedding director and Kathleen Perez of Azul Photography captured the day in photos.

When it was time to begin, the grandmothers were seated first then Gabriel, 2 1/2 year old son of the bride and groom, decided to take his walk down the aisle--holding on to that ring pillow, of course! He was adorable and looks so much like his father. He was followed by his grandparents, Derek's mom and dad.

Our very handsome groom followed my entrance and the groomsmen each made their walk down the aisle to the portico.

Then after the Maid of Honor and the Man of Honor entered, Jenny and her very tall and witty father, Santos, entered. Isn't Jenny's dress beautiful?

This was a "kid friendly" wedding! Gabriel and the other little boy moved around quite a bit and at points were vocal but it did not seem to bother anyone and it was a lot better than them crying and screaming! Gabriel is the little boy to the right engaging a guest!

Then it was time for the Blessing of Gabriel. I don't think I got his attention though as his father watched. He had found a little toy truck he was playing with.

On with the lovely ceremony. I loved telling Jenny and Derek's story. The wedding day was the fifth anniversary to the day of their first kiss. They met while both were living in Florida and playing in a tennis tournament. They definitely noticed each other but it took a while for Derek to find the courage to ask Jenny out and he was so thrilled when she said yes. Their first date was Busch Gardens riding the roller coasters and holding on to each other--much like their exciting lives so far. Gabriel was born 2.5 years later and when he was 6 months old, they decided to move to Raleigh and open their own martial arts business. It was a great adventure that they now continue on in marriage.

After the vows and the exchange of rings, we did the Unity Wine Ceremony. Each of them brought wine that represented them as an individual. Then they poured the wines together and drank of the combined wine symbolizing their promise to share life together, both the bitter and the sweet, and that their lives had today become one vessel into which all their joys and sorrows, hopes and fears are poured and that they would receive mutual sustenance from each other.

Jenny and Derek, you are an amazing couple. I know you will have a wonderful and successful marriage. Gabriel is lucky to call you Mom and Dad! My best wishes to you now and always and let me know if I can serve you again in the future--you know--baby blessings, renewal of vows....!