S & D, Married!

(on the plane, Cali-bound!)

We were so excited for June 30, 2012. Because it was our long-awaited trip to California, sure, but more so because it was the wedding weekend of S (aka Arenita!), a dear friend of both of us. S & D's story comes straight out of a fairytale: they met as Maid of Honor and Best Man at the wedding of S's practically-twin sister and D's best college bud. Guy pursued girl relentlessly. Girl made it super hard. Guy kept pursuing. Girl finally gave it a chance. And a beautiful love story formed: one of sacrifice, commitment, prayer, worship, servanthood.

Although we had to watch the story unfold from across the country, I felt such happiness and awe at God's loving plan for my friend Arenita. We'd known each other's weaknesses and struggles through our 4-hour long (yup..) weekly small groups, where we learned to share even the darkest corners of our hearts. Arenita, I love to reflect on what God has brought you through during your years of singlehood, because I can see how its highs and lows has refined your character and strengthened your dependence on God alone, ultimately preparing you for this next phase.

Welcome to marriage! Hubs and I loved having a chance to serve you and D this weekend. As your sister said during our bridesmaids' prayer for you, your wedding day was Day 1 of S & D's worship of our Father. It was truly a God-centered, humbling day of worship. May every day of your marriage bring Him praise and glory!

6.30.12 S & D Wedding, California

Preparations

This is how much we bridesmaids love Arenita: 

Getting fed, manicured, and photographed during some downtime ;)

First Look

How gorgeous is this bride??

Almost There...

It was a precious privilege to pray for Arenita just minutes before she walked down the aisle :)

(Photo credit MJK - thanks, ex-roomie!)

Ceremony and Reception...

Unfortunately, since I was a bridesmaid and Hubby was the videographer, neither of us got any photos on our own camera of the actual ceremony... I guess we'll have to wait for the professional ones to turn up on Facebook!

Congratulations once again!!

M & S, Married!

Hi blog, it's been a while. We've been running all over the country the past few weeks, attending one wedding and then another. Between all the traveling and catching up with responsibilities, I've been a little out of my groove!

Both weddings were such beautiful, joyful celebrations of God's love and faithfulness in the new couple's lives. Photos were, unfortunately, a bit scarce at both.. But I still managed to snap a few here and there.

6.23.12 M & S Wedding, New Jersey

M is the epitome of the word "sweet". I've been so thankful for her gentle, kind, and understanding heart in the few years I've known her. What a true blessing that God would bring someone equally sweet and amazing into her life! Thank you, M and S, for letting Hubs and me witness the beginning of your covenant with each other and God. And what a fun party you threw! :)

Exchanging vows

Tender moment with the parents

 You may now kiss the bride!

 

Fun times with Cornell friends