And now: part 2 of our ceremony. Need to get caught up? Click here to see part 1.
These rings are an outward sign of an inward and invisible grace that unites two hearts in love. That’s what has brought us here today. They are especially significant because the circle of these rings symbolizes an unending and enduring quality of love that you two are sharing today. There is no beginning and there is no end. It is the same love that God has for each of us.
“I give you this ring as a sign of my love and faithfulness”
I…um…had a hard time getting Mr. Buttons’ wedding band on his finger. Eek! Thankfully, he was nice enough to help me out with it!
The engagement ring is a symbol of a promise and intention. Now today, the intention is realized and the promise is fulfilled. So would you please place the engagement ring on Katie’s finger over her wedding band, symbolizing that the love that brought you together will protect and sustain you.
And then…dear hive, Mr. Buttons did something that made the entire room say “awwww” in unison. Here—I’ll show you…
Seriously, my heart melts over and over again each time I watch that. You see, when Mr. Buttons proposed he never did get down on one knee. Throughout our engagement, I continually would remind him of that fact (joking, of course). Well, I finally got my wish! What a sweetheart, right?
Anyway, after the ring exchange, we performed a handfasting ceremony -
Handfasting is an ancient Celtic tradition symbolizing the joining of two people in marriage. There are many versions of this gesture illustrating the union of husband and wife and is the origin of the phrase “tying the knot.”
These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.
These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as together you build your future.
These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, and with the slightest touch, will comfort you like no other.
These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief fills your mind.
These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children. These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one.
With this cord, I bind Justin and Katie to the vows they make to each other.
The wedding is not over; it’s just beginning. Not once and forever, but again and again shall the mystery of two people, together and in love, move one another and touch the world. For marriage is not something said and done, but a promise in which fulfillment is acted on in time. Justin and Katie may the blessing that rest upon all who love, rest also upon you and fill you with all spiritual grace. May the bond that unites you ever be strengthened.
Justin: you may kiss your bride.
And just like that, we were married!
*all photos courtesy of Pilster Photography*
Previously…
just gorgeous!!
Beautiful!! I loved the video of him getting down on one knee, totally teared up 
The video of him getting down on one knee totally made me tear up! Such a sweet gesture! (And your dress is just to DIE for…looove it)
SOOO wonderful! We are doing a handfasting as well! I LOVE the baby’s breath tied with ribbons! You both look so happy! Congrats!
LOVELY ceremony! I love that Mr. B got down on one knee. My Mr. G never did that either, such a cute idea! And gosh your dress is pretty!
I love the picture of him down on one knee! What a sweet hubby!
Awwww Mr Buttons is definitely a keeper Good thing you married him!
Oh, I swooned with him getting down on one knee. Well done, Mr Buttons!
ahh! tears just welled in my eyes! What a sweet and special moment =)
[...] a video to go along with her post too here. It’s really cute! I love how they incorporate both rings into the [...]
[...] Our ceremony began with some readings and ended with a handfasting ceremony. [...]
[...] Our ceremony began with some readings and ended with a handfasting ceremony. [...]
Mrs. Buttons, Clearwater, FL Age and Occupation: 24, "Working on it" Fiance's Age and Occupation: 28, Financial Services Engagement Date: June 13, 2009 Wedding Date: May 2010 Venue: Carlouel Yacht Club About Me: I'm a self proclaimed perfectionist and a professional nomad (seriously, I've lived in TX, WI, MI, FL, NC, and now VA!). I love wine, cooking, curling up with a good book (nerd alert!), spoiling the furbaby, and of course, the wonderful Mr. Buttons! We are planning a lighthearted and whimsical wedding (with a good deal of DIY projects) in Clearwater, Florida, but from a distance of 800 miles away! We are looking forward to sharing our day with our family and friends, and most importantly, starting our lives together as husband and wife!
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