Our sweet Lauren was married to her Phillip this past Saturday, June 14th. It was a blissful day that had been long and patiently awaited.

The Monday before she was to be wed, our team had the privilege of celebrating her with laughter, dance, rose petals, prayer, and a crown of flowers on her head. She looked like a princess. We began this “ritual”  three years prior when Kristin was preparing to marry Craig. Lauren  danced for Kristin that night amidst the glow of candlelight and tears of happiness. This year, Kristin returned the blessing when she danced to “My Beloved” by Kari Jobe for Lauren. She danced with so much joy for her friend, and fellow dancer.

We then one by one showered Lauren in rose petals and prayed blessings over her marriage to Phillip.  Even Kristin’s daughter, Riley got in on the celebration. It was so much fun watching her throwing petals with the other dancers and laughing with joy.  (I believe she  will dance for her King one day as well!)  The following Saturday, on a rainy afternoon, Lauren and Phillip made their promises to one another and looked forward to their future as husband and wife. We all knew their journey  and watched them wait patiently to begin their lives together through high school and college, all the while pledging to keep themselves pure and wait for one another. It was a beautiful and rare thing. Something to be treasured and celebrated. 

Lauren was a stunning and fun bride. It rained on her “outdoor wedding” but she took it all in stride, and with a wry smile said something like, ” I have waited for this day a long time, and I am  not waiting any longer!” declaring the wedding be moved indoors. Later, she rocked the dance floor with all the girls ( having to compete with Phil’s grandmother!) and we all had so much fun! 

 I danced quite a bit myself, but only when I put my camera down.  (mostly with Phil’s grandma!) When Lauren threw her bouquet, guess who caught it? None other than my starry-eyed romantic Annie. 

She was thrilled! Here’s to our beautiful Lauren. May God give you much laughter, love and happiness in the years to come with your Phillip.