The weather was perfect, things ran smoothly, we all scrubbed up well, the church looked beautiful, the service was wonderful and the reception, a great celebration.
Matt and Bec along with Rev Ian Lohmeyer planned a wedding service that placed God at the centre. It was such a celebration and witness of their faith and of their love for each other. They had written their own vows - after saying them to each other, there was hardly a dry eye in the place!
At the reception, a theme that stood out through all the speeches was the importance of family and friends in Matt and Bec's lives.
Here is a copy of Paul and my (short) speech:
Hello! Isn’t it wonderful to be able to celebrate this happy occasion together … family and friends! There’s something about a wedding that brings out the best in us all … don’t we all look magnificent? If you don’t believe me, have a look around you! ….Scrub up well, don’t we all!?
Then of course there’s the bride and groom.. Aren’t they both gorgeous?
I think at occasions like this there is a collective sense of pride in both the bride and groom.. it’s not just their dashing good looks of course… it’s who they are, their characters, the memories we share, the way we have seen them grow and mature, and the way we have seen their relationship develop and grow into what we are celebrating today.
Matt and Bec, we want to say that we are very proud of you.
They say it takes a village to raise a child: have a look around this room – here is a significant part of your village – family and friends – past, present and future. And we also think of those who couldn’t make it today.
Our relationship and responsibilities change as of today but we still want to say that we love you and will stand by you in your life together. Congratulations!
Over the last few months my son has moved out; he has publicly declared his faith at his baptism; and married the beautiful Bec before family and friends.
Our other son, Jeremy was a great support as groomsman - and looked so handsome! (I'm a little biased!)
My heart is full.
