I’ll never forget her entrance. The whole audience was mesmerised - a demure, graceful, and effortlessly beautiful bride - as she glided towards her beau.
It was a year ago today, 14th September 2019, at Campbell Point House on the Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria. A location fit for royalty and my dear friends, Olivia and Lee, on their wedding day.
The estate is a statement, but not overstated, nestled around Lake Connewarre and designed for memory-making in complete privacy and luxury. On that day, the sunshine was magical, like a fairy godmother had planted a thousand tiny diamonds on the surface of the water.
As Olivia made her way down the grand staircase, there was a calmness in the air. Everything was as it should be, as two people committed to a life in love, with such certainty.
Today, as I recall their special day, I thought it would be nice to say a few small things to wish them well as they mark one year of marriage. Particularly because I can’t swing by with champagne, due to the COVID-19 lockdown.
To Mr and Mrs Peters
Shall we revisit some of the words shared as part of your ceremony? I’m a huge believer in cherishing them for years to come and yours were particularly lovely.
From your ceremony
“When I asked Lee and Liv what makes their partnership so certain and they said it’s because they’re best friends. They are two parts, sometimes ying and yang, but always complementary. They love each other wholly and never tire of being together.
“They also believe in being a team. I distinctly remember when Lee and Liv moved in together and invited a few close friends over for a meal. I was personally in awe as to how two people could so efficiently decorate a home with two house-fulls of belongings that were at completely different ends of the style spectrum. They’re a stylish pair though and of course, there wasn’t a thing out of place. There rarely is with these two.
“In a busy room, they will always pause to see each other; to recognise each other’s wants and needs; and find a way to communicate, often with just a considered nod in each others’ direction. They are truly present, which is a rare and wonderful skill for life partners to hone.
“They make love look frictionless – and love shouldn’t be hard work, after all. Their version is one that will serve them well for a lifetime of happiness. It is built on respect, self-awareness, supporting ambition and building each other into the very best people they can be. As friends, as members of two loving families, and as generous and educated contributors to their community.”
That poem
Remember this little poem, which you found to explain what it felt like to find each other? I do.
In your eyes, I have found my home.
In your heart, I have found my love.
In your soul, I have found my mate.
With you, I am whole, full, alive.
You make me laugh. You let me cry.
You are my breath, my every heartbeat.
I am yours.
You are mine.
Of this we are certain.
A little girl, my oh my
Reminiscing aside, you have so much to look forward to! Earlier this month you announced that you are going to be parents - and to a little girl, no less. I could not be happier for you both, as you embark on this life-changing adventure. She will be SO loved.
Check out their (super cute) baby announcements HERE and HERE.
Happy anniversary
I know you can’t go to a fancy restaurant to celebrate tonight, but lockdown is still a great time to remember all the happy memories from your wedding day. Look through the photos, read your vows, re-live every special moment - and know that all your loved ones are thinking of you.
Happy first anniversary, Mr and Mrs Peters.
With love,
Hales x
P.S. Photo courtesy of the wizards at Tony Evans Photography.