Ahwatukee Sunflower Ceremony
They were standing under an arch of sunflowers, holding hands as the priest recited the story of their first meeting. Their guests sat silently as we listened to how Alex & Naomi fell in love. When these online flames met for the first time (in person) at Barnes and Noble, sparks flew and they couldn’t wait to see each other again. After a couple of dates, they were excited to find out that they were really who their profiles said they were and they really liked each other. As these feelings grew, they decided to take a trip to San Diego together. This would be their first trip out of town and they spent the time taking each other to destinations the other would love. It was here, in San Diego that Alex and Naomi had their first fight. Naomi said that it was in that moment she knew she “wanted to be here for this”, She knew he was the one, and she knew she loved him even when she was upset.
Their ceremony was centered not only on their commitments to each other but also on their commitments to God. In fact, during the ceremony, they signed resolution documents (a promise of how they would conduct themselves for the rest of their married lives with each other and even how they will love themselves). It was so rewarding to hear them read these promises out loud as see confidence wash over them as the time got closer to seal the deal with a kiss.
To kick off the party, Naomi danced with her dad, starting the waterworks, and by the time Alex was done dancing with his mom, there wasn’t a dry eye in the venue. It was truly a blessing to be included with such a tight circle of close friends and family that all loved these two so much.
Alex and Naomi, I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, you both have very kind and generous souls. It is so obvious that you love each other with all you have and look at each other like there’s no one else on Earth. I feel so privileged to have had the opportunity to get to know and love you. Congratulations! I hope you look back on this day and always see how much your love has grown.
