Kara and Tony Wedding

“In all that I’ve done wrong I know I must have done something right to deserve a hug every morning and butterfly kisses at night.”

Those are lyrics from the tear-jerker song, “Butterfly Kisses,” written by Bob Carlisle and Randy Thomas. It is an audio depiction of the tender love a father has for his adoring daughter as she transforms right before his eyes from a baby girl to a woman, like a beautiful butterfly, being released from Daddy’s hands to join with another man to become a wife. As her brother played the melodious tune on the keyboard and belted out the sweet lyrics to this song, Kara and her dad, Doug, shared their moment on the dance floor. Their feet were moving, but I’m sure time stood still as they laughed, cried, and laughed some more. Sheri, Kara’s mom, looked on from the perimeter with that sweet, proud smile on her face.

This was just one of the many special moments that made Kara and Tony’s New Year’s Eve wedding perfect.

The weather outside for most of the day was far from perfect. Wet. Dreary. Some might even describe it as downright awful. But that didn’t pose a threat to the mood of this wedding day. Excitement filled the air from dawn until late night. Joy was abundant amongst family and friends as they helped gather, organize, setup, and decorate. Love and togetherness seemed to be the thread that pulled everyone together. And for this couple, I could tell where that love originated. It was apparent through their interactions with me and each other that these families believe in sharing the love of God with everyone they come across. From the babies to the bridesmaids to the guests and Kara’s uncle who officiated, love permeated throughout the day in subtle but meaningful ways.

One of the meaningful things that made this day stand out was the wedding date itself. You see, Kara and Tony have known each other since they were babies but didn’t begin dating until adolescence. And exactly 11 years ago, on New Year’s Eve, the teenage Tony professed his love to Kara. And she reciprocated the proclamation.

7 days later.

Because of her initial hesitation returning the sentiment, Kara’s Maid of Honor, Casey, jokingly announced,

“She is proof positive that playing hard to get will in fact get you a husband!”

Maybe I will try that.

Tony held on to Kara and looked at her with the sweetest, most loving gaze, smiling from ear to ear all night. His brother, Zach, AKA best man, shared with the crowd during his toast that he didn’t think anyone could love his big brother like he did. He admitted that although he didn’t think it was possible, Kara proved him wrong because it’s obvious in the way that she cares for Tony. How sweet that must have been coming from his “kid brother.”

Kara and Tony, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your big day. Everything was beautiful. The decor, the florals, the shoes, the dresses were all gorgeous. You were stunning in your gown, and your hair and makeup were flawless. The party was lively, and your friends and family are fun and full of energy! But the most beautiful thing about the day was being there to witness the two of you become husband and wife. You all are a beautiful example of God’s love, and I pray blessings upon blessings for you and your future together.