She was more than ready, and he bared his gallant grim any chance he could. Her bridal chambers were full of excitement and Elliot was getting impatient waiting to see Isobel. Having already somewhat rehearsed this day at her brother’s Kenny’s wedding a couple of years ago, Isobel had a certain calmness and assurance for the day. Her bridesmaids, lifetime friends talked and reminisced about happy memories they each had with their bride while Elliot toasted and cheered at every congratulation on his wedding day.

This was it, and the short 45-minute drive to the ceremony location beneath the tall Redwood trees seemed short by the melodies of her sweet sisters on their ride there. Elliot was eager to see her and as the moment drew near, he teared up a little seeing his bride for the first time. Their interfaith ceremony seamlessly blended their two hearts. The priest blessed them while the Rabbi prayed over them honoring hundreds of years of traditions coming together on that beautiful October day. As they prayed and recited their promises, the towering trees blessed them too with a short cascade of fall leaves. It was hard not to look and know that God was glad that they had all come together that day to celebrate love.

As we drove to the reception site, it was hard not to notice the travesty of the wildfires aftermath earlier that month. It was hard to conceive that houses were forever damaged and homes were replaced with ashes and fumed chimneys. That’s why at their private home’s reception, when their parents thanked everyone, we knew that this was a day that had been written long ago. People teared up and smiled at the same time recognizing how close those same wildfires could’ve prevented this precious memory from happening. But it happened. All 200 something of their guests surrounded Isobel and Elliot under the tall tree in that big green scape in their parents home–everything intact. It was only a few weeks before the wedding when the Napa wildfires broke out, and they were evacuated from their family home. They lived for a few weeks unknowing and uncertain if this wedding day would come. Their strength and perseverance through this hard times shined so bright that it cast a wide beam of long-lasting hope into their future in those moments of gratefulness.

Isobel and Elliot, you’ve taught so much with your story. We realize that the past season of planning for your next chapter came with so many unexpected things and you faced it gracefully holding onto one another. We’re inspired by your families, your stories and your big futures (as well as your taste in local brews and bubblies). We’re so grateful for your lives and know that ‘many waters could not quench the love nor could floods drown it.’ Bless you, two.

Comments

comments