Weddingbee Blog

Now, back by popular demand, I present another installment of Billy & Karissa’s budget beach wedding bonanza!

When we left our happy couple, they had just both arrived at the altar. Karissa’s sister, Julie, officiated a ceremony they had all designed together. It began with a 60-second silence, in which the guests set their intention to clear their hearts and minds and create a sacred space for the ceremony to take place.

Next, it was onto a candle lighting ceremony, to honor their fathers who couldn’t physically be there and to invite their spirits to be present.

B&K had invited us guests to bring a blessing to the ceremony, in the form of advice, a reading, or whatever we found appropriate to the occasion. They must have been truly filled with love, after hearing so many good wishes, such thoughtful advice, and some wonderful quotes. Mr. Meatball and I quoted “Its a Wonderful Life”—when George and Mary give Mr. Martini his housewarming gift… “Bread, that your home may never know hunger. Salt, that life may always have flavor. And wine, that joy and prosperity may reign forever.” While reading, we gifted them with each. It’s my favorite movie, evah.

Then, the most important part—the vows! They wrote them together, and said the same special vows to each other. It was really touching, and very them.

(see the maid of honor holding K’s veil down? The wind kept blowing it in her face! It was very dramatic, but understandably not ideal for the bride)

When it came time for the ring exchange, Julie held up the rings and asked everyone to concentrate love and blessings toward them, so they’d be infused with our warmth. It was kind of like a ring warming ceremony, but using our tele-spiritual powers. I love this photo.

After all ceremony was over, Julie said that while she was ordained to declare them officially married, so too were we, as friends and family—so we all said at the same time “I now pronounce you husband and wife!” It was very sweet and personal.

Sorry, folks, I didn’t get a picture of the kiss. Some wedding porn this is, right? What was I thinking?!?

Stay tuned for the final installment!