Happily After All: The I Do's

Our ceremony probably lasted 30 minutes in total, and the majority of it was spent during the readings, solo, and message.  It seemed like once we got to the "I do's" the rest of the ceremony just flew by.
We said our vows, which by the way were just the standard vows taken from the wedding ceremony program the pastor had.  Neither one of us was very interested in writing our own, or even writing the ceremony for that matter.  We were happy to pick out the readings and solo, and then leave the rest to the pastor to follow the traditional layout.  I can't speak for Mr. T, but for me the decision was based solely on the fact that any time I think of a wedding ceremony, I revert back to all the traditional vows and proceedings that I heard growing up.  When it comes to things like this, I don't like to rock the boat.

I think I was laughing a little in the process of trying not to cry.  And it probably had a little to do with the fact that I was pledging the rest of my life to my just about husband! 

So after the vows, the best man handed over our rings and Pastor Benke blessed them.

Then it was time to slip them on!  I forgot to switch my engagement ring over to my right hand ahead of time, so there was a little fumble when I pulled it off quickly and switched it over.  Apparently everyone saw too, because I got teased about it later on.

And then before you know it...we were married. But it wasn't over yet.  We still had to light our unity candle...

...and present roses to our mothers.  We kept this a surprise ahead of time, and I think they both really appreciated that we took the time to thank them for all they did in raising each of us.  First was my mom, and then Mr. T's.

Then it was back up to the altar again, where we had the whole church join us in the Lord's prayer.

And then....our first kiss as husband and wife!

And then it was official...we were actually married!  Pastor Duey announced us for the first time as Mr. and Mrs. T and that was that.

Then we made our way down the aisle, and the rest of the bridal party followed.

 

Next up:  Our second exit and the bubble tunnel!

Unless otherwise stated, all pictures are by Brandy Swartz of Photography by Brandy.

In case you've missed anything...

The Readings and Solo

The Processional

The Pre-Processional

The Church Details
Heading To The Church
Slipping Into My Dress

The Flowers

Getting Pretty
A Crazy Lady The Morning Of
Decorating the Reception Hall
Honoring Our Family
The Rehearsal