Being an Oregon wedding photographer, it is rare for me to capture a wedding in my own home town of Junction City. But this wedding was close to home. Not just literally, but also because the bride is very special to me. Over the weekend, I had the privilege of attending and capturing Eric and Rebecca’s wedding. This wedding was particularly special as Rebecca, the bride, is my cousin. But she is so much more than that. She is really a sister to me. The fact that I could even see enough during the ceremony is a straight up miracle!
This ceremony began like they all usually do, but it was far different than any other I have photographed. Both Eric and Rebecca have previously been married. Needless to say, neither were even remotely interested in getting married again. There is no doubt in my mind that God specifically brought these two together. Not only because they just fit together with their personalities, but also to show them both that they can love and trust someone again.
Their vows to one another were powerful and filled with emotion. During their exchange, you could hear the sound of sniffing and tissues being pulled from their boxes. What was not expected was when Eric turned toward Rebecca’s two children, Tylan and Addison, and recited his own vows to them. He made promises to them, including not to treat them like the “step-children”, but to love them as if they were his own. Which would be easy, he said, because he already does. If people weren’t crying before, they certainly were now, including myself.
The ceremony concluded with Eric and Rebecca sharing communion for the first time as husband and wife. We all had a good laugh when Rebecca took too big a bite of bread and Eric topped off the glass of wine! Shortly after, Rebecca’s best friend, Kelli, pulled a step stool out and placed before Eric so they could share their first official married kiss. What a cute way to end a perfect ceremony!
This post does not do the ceremony justice. Being there was such a powerful and moving moment and I feel blessed and honored to have been a part of the whole experience. Eric and Rebecca- I pray that your marriage is filled with lots of love and an abundance of laughter and happiness!!
Love, Jessica xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
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