Zola and Michael Wed at the White Garden!

The next wedding of the weekend was Saturday May23rd for Zola and Michael in the White Garden of JC Raulston Arboretum. Again the weather was wonderful and all their hard work paid off in a beautiful wedding. I met with Zola and Michael last August to find out their dreams for their wedding. (I was embarrassed that I did not recognize them when I got to their rehearsal because we had met so many months ago!) They loved putting together their own ceremony and made it very special with readings by Zola's two sisters, Yana and Rose, and her good friend, Denise. They all did a fabulous job. This wedding was unique in many ways. Zola did not want to be escorted in and "presented" so after the wedding party and I had processed in, Michael waited on the terrace for Zola to appear from a hidden spot nearby and they processed in together as their guests stood in their honor. They also wrote their own vows which they read to each other from my book.

The lovely music was provided by the Everbloom Quartet. Their friend and professional photographer, Burcu Atakturk of Aries Photography, was documenting this wonderful event. The aisle was lined with beautiful potted flowers. The three bridesmaids, Yana, Rose, and Nadia were dressed in colorful dresses of turquoise, orange and purple, made for them especially for this wedding by the bride's mother, Leah. Zola's wedding gown was exquisite. It looked vintage but was new with beautiful lace and beading. Zola's Aunt Anita, Leah's sister, was our capable director drafted into service at the rehearsal. Anita, you did a great job getting everyone lined up, cued in, and seated in the right seats! (That is Anita in the hat and sunglasses doing her job.) Michael and his groomsmen were so tall I felt like a midget! See us gathered together before the ceremony. Michael is so tall that even with me standing on the step during the ceremony I had to look way up to make eye contact with him! The wedding ceremony ended with the kiss and introduction of the newlywed couple to their guests who cheered them on and then departed to 111 Place in Cary for their reception while we took some pictures. It was a delightful wedding and I am honored to have been a part of it. All the best to you, Zola and Michael!