Kaela and I stopped for a minute before Ruth and Colin’s ceremony at Boettcher Mansion to take in the scene. We had had such a good day already. We had cried so many times already. We were discussing this fact and why that was. We were essentially trying to make excuses for why were are such cry babies. Then I had a realization. When you have already been married and can see the power and joy in that you really recognize what a special day it is. You take the time to notice the little things that make a good lasting marriage. You cry because you are overjoyed that the two people who are about to take their vows get to experience that too.
Let’s be honest, there are certain times and people who really get that bucket flowing. Ruth and Colin are those people. From the moment I met them I knew it. It is the way they look at each other. Yes, the old cliche. But it came into existence for a reason. Colin and Ruth have it. Their love for each other transcends their personal relationship. Everyone around them can feel it as realistically as I can feel if you put your hand on my shoulder. Don’t take my word for it. Ask all their friends and family.
This wedding was bursting with a tangible love. Ruth and Colin knew that would be the case so they really made sure to incorporate that into their day. Their ceremony was one of the most special and participatory ceremonies I have seen. Their friend Keith, the officiant, said that the ceremony would have three parts. Friends, family and the two of them. During each section Keith asked them to stand up and be a part of what was taking place. Taking vows to love and support the couple as well as each other throughout. It was simple and sweet and incredibly meaningful.
And that is how the day went, simple, sweet and incredibly meaningful. From the moment Ruth woke up and she received a letter from her grandma about the first thing her dad said about her to the send off at the end. Everyone was present in every moment. (I will let Ruth tell you about the letter). It was a beautiful day that everyone said they were just having fun. That is a huge testament to Ruth and Colin’s personalities and the incredible planning and work of Lo Wiltshire from The Gardner Effect. The focus was really on the building a lifetime together.
Well, if you couldn’t tell, I was really honored and touched to be a part of their wedding. I am excited to see what and incredible marriage they build! Congrats Mr. & Mrs. Seilers!
Thank you to all the wonderful vendors:
The Gardner Effect – Lauren Wiltshire
Beautiful wedding at Boettcher Mansion.
We started out getting ready with all Ruth’s best girl friends.
Beautiful custom hanger for her dress.
Getting her dress all buttoned up.
Colin putting the finishing touches on his suit.
Mother of the groom and groom before the ceremony.
First look with dad.
All their favorite people in one place.
The draping of the greenery and flowers over the arbor.
One last laugh before she walks down the aisle with her dad.
Now that is a groom’s reaction to his bride walking down the aisle.
Rings and vows on Boettcher Mansion’s back patio.
Their whole wedding was part of the ceremony.
Moms are the best.
The woods at Lookout Mountain are dreamy.
Bride and groom celebrating their marriage!
The details of the flowers and the back of her dress.
Details of the reception space at Boettcher Mansion.
First dance was on the front patio during cocktail hour.
Toasts by the parents.
There was a great party full of dancing.
Grand Exit with glow sticks.
Colin and Ruth exit in their vintage Rolls Royce.