I want to “Thank” Stephen & Cristel LeRoy for their complete confidence in me to officiate their special day as my wedding 13 years ago. I wasn’t nervous talking in front of people, I was nervous about keeping my composure and not cry. When I look at weddings on television I cry, when I’m at a wedding in person, I cry. Well my journey began by researching how to officiate a wedding ceremonies, learn the order of a ceremony, learn the variations of specialty ceremonies. I also had to learn how to speak slowly and clearly with compassion. The good thing is I had at least 6 months to get proficient and provider them with a plan. With many hours reading, rehearsing and drafting a plan, I finally presented them with a few ceremonies.
The day of the wedding: The bride is getting ready, the photographer was taking pictures, the groom was meeting & greeting the guest. Lots of laughter, smiles, great energy and the weather was just perfect in Ventura. It was time to execute my plan as I visioned it to be for my friends Stephen & Cristel. I lined up the couples and Stephen & I were ready to start the walk down the isle and the brides maids & groomen followed.
As I began to read the ceremony that was personalized I see someone from my peripheral vision making some hand gestures but I did everything not to look at her. As the couple pledge their vows, I continued to see the hand gestures and all I can think of was that I probably was talking too low or too loud but I still continued with the ceremony. To my surprise, I didn’t cry but I must say the feeling I had up there knowing that I was making this marriage legal and to see the beautiful smiles of happiness in their face made me feel amazing!! I didn’t know being on the other side is a very powerful feeling that one can’t explain.
When I said “You may kiss your bride” and looking at the smile the couple had on their face was priceless. I knew at that point in my heart I was meant to continue this journey. The smiles on the couples face was priceless especially So some of you may be wondering what that hand gesture was all about, well here is goes. As the couple makes their exit, I followed the last couple out and the person making the gestures comes up to me to let me know that i forgot to have the guest be seated. Everyone stood up the entire time of the ceremony. I was so embarrassed, needless to say it was the laugh of the evening.
We have shared our anniversary together on trips or for the day for the last 13 years. We have created a bonded for life,
As of this day in my notes of the ceremony I add in “Please be seated & Please stand”. This has been an amazing journey. I have met so many nice people with love stories that go on and on. Love come in various ways but one knows when it’s the right time & with the right person. I continue to enjoy officiating!
APRIL 28, 2007 WHERE MY JOURNEY BEGAN!
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