Dynasty and Shaqwan Wed in Kayelily's Garden!

Dynasty contacted me in September about getting married in a very brief ceremony on October 1, 2015 in my wedding garden. The plans changed and the size of the wedding mushroomed! A new date of Thursday October 8th was set and the ceremony written to recognize Shaqwan's daughters and the couple's mothers and Dynasty's godmother.

It was a beautiful day and everyone was ready for this sweet wedding. Dynasty decorated the arbor with white and purple hydrangeas. The sand ceremony set up was put together and ready.

I gave Dynasty's brother, Jordan, the signal to escort her in as I joined Shaqwan up front and asked the guests to stand in the bride's honor. I love that silver/pewter satin bridal gown!

 And so they entered down the aisle. 

 You can see my right hand beckoning newcomers to come on in and take a seat! 

 And so the ceremony began with welcoming words, a prayer, and recognition of special guests. 

 Then I invited Shawn's daughters, Emani and Destinee, to join us for a children's blessing. 

 Their mother has passed on and so on this day, Dynasty became their mother officially. A group hug! 

 Now to pour the sand. 

 Dynasty and Shawn blend their sand on top of the girls' combined sand signifying family unity. 

 A few words on love and marriage then I invited them to say their personal vows to each other.

Shaqwan pulled out his cell phone but mainly he knew what he wanted to say. He told Dynasty that she had been his first love when they were in high school but went their separate ways and was so happy to be reunited with her now, for life!

Dynasty had her vows on paper and shared them with Shaqwan (whose hands have disappeared into his pockets!).

 And now for the exchange of rings! 

 I placed my hands on theirs and made the pronouncement of marriage.  

Then I invited Shaqwan to kiss the bride!  

 And he surely did! 

 That sweet after-kiss moment!

 I introduced the newlywed couple to their guests amongst the cheering and applause!

Shaqwan and Dynasty, it was my honor to join you in matrimony. I am so happy that you rediscovered each other after all the years. That is so sweet. Congratulations on your marriage and your new family!