What Today Means to Me...

Lots of people call Valentine's Day a Hallmark holiday, and I have to admit I'm no exception- though in my case I mean that in the best way possible. I don't get all wrapped up in it and don't expect my husband to come home with a big bunch of flowers. We don't exchange gifts and we rarely go out, but we do give cards. Carefully chosen cards that convey things left unsaid during hectic mornings and busy weekends. And the ones I get never fail to bring a tear to my eye. This year was no exception. And it was even better because not only did my husband chose the perfect card, but my daughter- who is now old enough to write her own- blew me away with an amazing sentimental and thankful message. It honestly made my day. I am one lucky girl!

So.. in honor of Valentine's Day I thought I'd share a bit of my heart with you. I was going to post pictures of my wedding- but it was 10 years ago and probably wouldn't be much of an inspiration to you as you plan your wedding. Back then, no one wore strapless dresses, signature drinks were unheard of, digital photography didn't exist, cakes were round with pillars, and floral design was - well, in a word - different. But I hope you'll see that what truly makes for a beautiful wedding is the happy marriage that follows. My husband and I have been through a lot in the past ten years- unvbelievably happy moments, sudden almost unbearable loss, days and weeks of quietly living, and special times filled with details that are forever stamped on our hearts. There have been things that brought us closer together, and moments that could have divided us, if we'd let them. And, through it all I can honestly say I've never given the details of our wedding day more than a passing thought (except for when I'm making some georgous arrangement or setting up a breathtaking wedding and I say- geeesh, why didn't I think of that???!!). It was an amazing day, filled with laughter, family and friends and even though it would probably seem dated and even a little hokey now, I wouldn't change a thing.

So I guess what I'm saying is: plan carefully, choose things you love now, include all the little details that will make it everything you dreamed it would be, stay organized and be prepared to be a little stressed. But, please most of all have fun and don't lose sight of the best and most beautiful thing about your wedding: the person standing beside you. Styles change and the memories from your wedding day will fade a bit, but love endures.

then

and now...