Heather and Sean Wed at McCown-Mangum House at West Point on the Eno!

Heather and Sean planned their small family wedding at the McCown-Mangum House which is part of the park on the Eno River. It is an old historic house that has been authentically restored. When I arrived for the wedding on Sunday October 25th, the trees seemed to have turned into their riot of colors overnight and the park was gorgeous.

We held the ceremony in front of the fireplace with family members looking on. Heather and Sean were delighted that not only their parents but also their grandmothers could be present for this special occasion.

They exchanged rings after a sweet tribute to their parents and recognition of everyone present.

Heather was wearing a softly layered lacy dress and with her lacy hose and shawl she looked like a "pioneer bride."

Heather and Sean loved the idea of the sand ceremony and got really creative. They asked each set of parents to bring something to pour into the central container that would represent their history and foundation.

To represent Sean's family heritage, his parents brought sand with shells in it from Myrtle Beach to pour. Heather's parents are into rock collecting and lapidary so they brought specially crushed rocks to represent Heather's family heritage. Sean's favorites were green and jade colored stones and since Heather is into "beading" she brought beautiful blue beads to pour. The couple are happily expecting a wee one so in addition to including a blessing for their unborn child during the ceremony they poured little green bean seeds into their sand representing the baby.

Heather and Sean, I am so glad you called on me for your wedding. It was really special. I wish you all the very best!

Jessica Key was our photographer for this wonderful occasion. I hope she sends me some good photos--hint, hint! I relied on Sean's mother to take some shots with my little camera while I officiated. Thanks, Karen. You did well!