Melissa and Ion Wed at Duke Gardens!

Melissa and Ion both grew up in Ohio and met when they were in college. Ion's career brought him to the Triangle of NC and Melissa transferred to NCSU so they could be together. They have both fallen in love with this area and in particular Duke Gardens. They have also brought all their family to the gardens in hopes of persuading them to relocate to NC. So, how perfect that they chose to have their small intimate family wedding in the Gardens at the Fish Pool area on Sunday October 5th 2014.

Over the years Duke Gardens has been renovated and updated. When you walk in through the gates from the parking lot at the visitors' center, at the end of the path is a beautiful rotunda with this stunning fountain!

Then at the end of the vista from the pergola is the beautiful fish pool with the overlook above it. 

Time to start the ceremony. Ion and I take our places in front. 

Our wonderful violinist, Udeshi Hargett!

Melissa and her father, Pat, begin their walk through the gorgeous foliage. 

Down the steps...

"Who blesses and supports Melissa as she comes to join in marriage with Ion?"

Welcome everyone! 

They wanted both of their shelties, Chloe and Kai, to be there but one of them was not up to it so we just have the one sweet pup. From the right is Ion's father, Ted, with Melissa's sister, Christina, and her significant other, Marcel, holding the leash.

Our photographer, Julian Ribinik, is getting so many good photos! I have seen them posted on Facebook and he has generously offered them to me. The photos on this blog are taken by my husband Dave who was being my "roadie" that day.

From the left is Ion's mother, Cynthia, Melissa's parents, Diane and Pat.

Following the welcome was a blessing of the parents and remembering those loved ones not with us. 

After a few words on how much Ion and Melissa are attuned with each other, it is time for the vows.

Ion read the vows he had written for Melissa from my book, then Melissa read hers to Ion.

The exchange of rings "With this ring, I marry you and pledge my heart to you." 

A closing blessing before the pronouncement!

I love the kiss AND there is always this very special moment right after the kiss where being married is just sinking in!

Hooray! 

                                                  
Congratulations, Melissa and Ion!! Thank you for choosing me to join you in matrimony! I wish you all the best life can bring your way!

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