The power was out in the home where Nicole was getting ready, but that didn’t phase her as she expertly applied her own makeup and assisted her bridesmaids with theirs. By the time I had arrived, driving carefully through the pouring rain and dodging fallen trees and debris from the wind, the power had just come back on & the girls were calmly going through the motions of hair dos, packing up the car and getting things organized. Their poise amazed me – there was no back-up plan for their outdoor ceremony, just the hope that the skies would clear and the blustery weather would hold out. Against all odds… it did just that.
The bridesmaids quickly affixed yards and yards of ribbon to the driftwood arch at The Edgewater House. Handmade paper flowers accented the edges and added just the right amount of whimsey to the stunning natural backdrop of the Puget Sound. Tara of Bloom placed individual buds on the barely iced cake & gold painted pine cones brought nature inside to the reception tables. We all held our breath hoping that the dicey weather would work in our favor.
Finally it was time for the first look – both Nicole and Shawn were speechless. This moment had been a long time coming – they had spent a lot of their relationship long distance, endured deployments in the Army, and planned the wedding from out-of-state. Their joy over finally being in that moment was overwhelming. The rest of the day passed in a quick blur of smiles, hugs, periods of torrential rain, and toasts filled with laughter. The little guy that stole the show was Shawn’s son, Dominic. Although he was shy & overwhelmed by the festivities, Shawn and Nicole got him out on the dance floor and coaxed a great air guitar solo. Shawn had all the moves – showing off his whip, nay nay & shout. Waving glow sticks sent the happy couple off into the night. I am so glad I got to be a part of this new chapter for this sweet family & can’t wait to see what the future has in store for them. Congratulations, Nicole & Shawn!
