2021: love, in waiting — Melbourne Marriage Celebrant, Haley Chartres

A poem for Charlotte and Pete

T’was four days before Christmas, on the fringe of the city,

Creatures were stirring, *beyond* ready for a ditty.

For years, Covid-19 had delivered curve balls and troubles,

And left Pete and Charlotte a hangin’ for bubbles!

You see, they had tried to wed, a few times by now -

But to Victoria’s safety, CHOttie and Dan made a vow.

Now, with lockdowns lifted, it was time. It was near.

And all over The Farm, could be heard… “hear hear”!

The weather was spectacular, sunny yet mild,

A perfect day for a tribe of legends to get wild.

Through the garden came a glimmer, of his Charlotte, his bride,

His eyes welled, just a little, a groom bursting with pride.

That moment felt surreal for everyone that was there,

Like the clock stopped, while she glided, transfixed in her stare.

Looking ahead to her love, her teammate, her groom.

A picture of class, of grace. Charlotte, in bloom.

Their story was shared, here’s just a snip-it:

“When I look at you, I see someone I aspire to be. Someone hard working, honest, passionate, caring, kind and simply just a good person. You’ve stood by me through some of the strangest, hardest, best and worst moments of my life. You’ve never made me feel like we’re anything other than equal. I just want you to always be you, because that is the person – and the only person in my life – that I have fallen in love with.” – Pete, to Charlotte

“He’s both mature and extremely immature – depending on the moment. But he has taught me a lot about myself – how to be brave, how to relax, how to enjoy a moment, how to deal with the weight of my own expectations for myself. Our life today is one of mutual support and trust. My home is with him, and I can’t imagine life without him in it.” – Charlotte, to Pete

And soon after, their vows. Heartfelt and kind.

What followed was just that, wild and free.

Friends and family united, right where they should be.

The food was incredible, the wine delicious too,

Thanks to Rob Dolan and his maestro crew!

To Pete and Charlotte, I felt so honoured to be present,

To stand with you, together, as an old friend and celebrant.

Our hearts are full now you’ve said your “I do’s”.

Well worth the wait. For real love, you did choose.

___

Big love to the team who helped make their day:

Photographer (photos kindly shared): Into the Clearing