Tuesday, June 3, 2014

A Pagan and an Agnostic Walk into a Church…


Sounds like the start to a bad joke doesn’t it? Actually, it’s sort of the tagline for these past two weeks because, drum roll please, I got married! Looking back on it now, it went by in such a blur. There were hiccups along the way but overall it was such a magical day that I will remember for the rest of my life.

When I was a girl I never thought about what my wedding would be like and even when I started dating Grant, I never really thought far ahead of what the “perfect” ceremony and reception would be. We had a short Lutheran ceremony in my Grandparent’s church (where I am also still a member) followed by a brunch reception at a local historical mansion house. We had gorgeous weather, amazing company, and delectable food.

My emotions were running very high that day. I am not a crier; unless there’s something incredibly tragic, I don’t cry. On the day of my wedding I cried perhaps more than I have in my life. It started with the walk down the aisle. Many of you know that my father has been sick; up until a few months ago he could barely walk. The fact that my Dad could not only be healthy enough to attend my wedding, but to walk me down the aisle and participate in the father/daughter dance, brought tears to my eyes. These tears lasted all the way down the aisle. I was quite the blubbering mess when I arrived at the altar.

The ceremony itself as was so surreal. As we stood up there, reading our vows to each other (pictured below) it felt like we were the only people in there (clichéd, I know). When the Pastor told us to “Kiss and Embrace,” we even both paused, not hearing him and not realizing we were that far along in the ceremony. However, it goes well with me not hearing Grant’s proposal. Our awkwardness continued throughout that day but hey, it’s us.

The reception was also a blur. It was amazing to see so many people that I love and care about gathering in one place to celebrate our special day. That also brought tears to my eyes. Then toasts started and yeah, I lost it both during the Maid of Honor and Best Man toast. Seriously, that day turned my cynical heart into such a mushy mess.

The honeymoon was heavenly. It took me about a day to get used to the fact that I had nothing to do but relax and enjoy the lake. We hiked a little, laid out in the sun a little, and just enjoyed the first few days of marriage. After that we returned home to our house. Last weekend we spent umpteen hours moving boxes, wedding presents, furniture, and all the rest of our worldly possession into our new home. We’re still in the process of settling in but of course I have the kitchen completely unpacked and have already made some wonderful dishes.

My life has started a new chapter. I am still the same witty, nerdy, dark, and sarcastic Sam but with a different last name (though I will be keeping Samantha Curtin for Author, Blog, and Non-personal Social Media Purposes). I’m looking forward to this summer where we get to enjoy our new house, our new marriage, and our new life together.

First picture courtesy of our wedding photographer, Jessica Eastburn.

4 comments:

Lilac Wolf (Angie or Angela) said...

Congratulations! No matter how big or small, when you marry the person you love, it is a magical day. When I married Chris, we didn't have much of a budget. But we got married in his church, had a simple reception followed by a fun after party. The memory dims as time goes by, but I always remember how loved he made me feel on that day. Your wedding sounds like it was a blast. And dear, you looked lovely.

Anonymous said...

Congratulations!! I'm so thankful and blessed to have been a part of your beautiful day. Your ceremony almost made me cry, your reception made me laugh, and you were just a sight to behold. Wishing you and Grant many happy, healthy, prosperous years together, so mote it be! <3

fearless_fallen_angel said...

Congratulations! As a witch married to an atheist for the last 25 years, I can attest that the match is quite possibly a perfect one!

Alexis Kennedy said...

*sniffle* My Daughter From Another Life, you looked stunning, and thanks to Nichi and Steph, I was able to be there via twitter and facebook private messages. I'm so happy for you and Grant, and thrilled to have shared a small part in that day. Blessings of love, happiness and longevity to you both!

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