tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58896487451687572802024-03-14T01:49:00.081-04:00NC Triangle Weddings Blogby Rev. Robin W. Renteria, Ph.D.
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As a wedding minister and wedding officiant in Chapel Hill, Durham and Raleigh from 1994 through June of 2016, I have delighted in all the joyful and creative ways the couples I have married expressed their love for each other and for their family and friends. It has been my pleasure and privilege to share some of these with you, and to celebrate some of the exceptional and talented wedding professionals in our area.Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.comBlogger235125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-1285453054248267552014-12-18T15:10:00.001-05:002014-12-18T15:10:41.309-05:00Lisa and Brian Have a Wonderful Time at Their Wedding <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lisa and Brian are as much fun as in this picture. And at the same time they are thoughtful people who have had to overcome some challenges and have grown a lot in their love and in who they are individually and as a couple in the accomplishing of that. There was much to celebrate in their ceremony. I love working with couples who are wise in knowing that marriage is a journey, not a destination. So their wedding was a delight for everyone there.</span></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.thestockroomat230.com/"> </a></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.thestockroomat230.com/">The Stockroom</a></b> in downtown Raleigh was perfect for the urban feel that they love and for their casual crowd, many of whom had come from where they lived before in Pennsylvania. I loved all the music they chose for their processional. It set a lovely tone and was just them:</span><br />
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<i><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> Landon
Pigg – 'Falling In Love In a Coffee Shop' </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">for the family processional,</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-themecolor: text2;"> Matt Wertz – 'I Will Not Take My
Love Away'</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> for the men's entrance,</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-themecolor: text2;"> Glen
Hansard and Marketa Irglova - 'Falling Slowly' </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">for Lisa's attendants,</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> The Piano Guys – 'A Thousand Years' </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">for Lisa's processional.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lisa and Brian introduced me to a German Toasting Glasses and the story that goes with it. They both drank at the same time from the cup and if you want to know the old story, more a legend, that goes with it, then call me. They accomplished the goal for a happy marriage - to both drink without spilling a drop.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After the ceremony they took advantage of all the wonderful night sites Raleigh has to offer. Thanks to <b><a href="http://www.adoringeventsandphotography.com/">Tara Doring of Adoring Events and Photography</a></b> for these fabulous shots! Thanks to her mother, <b><a href="http://www.adoringeventsandphotography.com/">Teresa Doring</a>, </b>also of Adoring Events and Photography for her excellent Day of Coordination. <b><a href="http://mews-designs.com/">Marsha Snyder of MEWS Floral Designs</a></b> created their flowers. And <b><a href="http://morseentertainment.com/">Marcus Ward of Morse Entertainment</a></b> was their wonderful DJ who also managed their ceremony music. All excellent professionals.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brian and Lisa </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">cherish the life they have built together, both very different people from very
different backgrounds, however both with the same goals and a true appreciation
of what each one brings to their life together.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">And their life with Max, their four-footed family member who is a joy in
their lives and who has helped them work as a team in new and often unexpected
ways.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">In our blessing of their marriage, I said, "God, bless them with the inner gifts of trust, compassion, forgiveness,
and truth that they may live and grow together in love and peace. Amen."</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">And I add, bless them with much joy. In their thanks to me they said, '</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>you were the component that made the wedding about our marriage not just a party. I don't know if we could ever repay you for what you helped us do on that day! Thank you so very much from the bottom of our hearts!' </i>It was a joy and a privilege to celebrate their love with them. And it's a joy to remember it today.</span></span>Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-48459790951352706262014-12-18T08:17:00.002-05:002014-12-18T08:17:49.524-05:00Navid and Ashley are a Delight in Their Joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love it when I work with a couple only by phone and then get to meet them on their wedding day. Ashley and Navid were even sweeter and kinder in person than in our planning. I loved being a part of their wedding. My special joy started when I went upstairs at <b>Crenshaw Hall in Wake Forest</b> to meet Ashley and her wedding party and found that Navid's mother was fixing Ashley's mother's hair for the ceremony. Everyone was relaxed and having a wonderful time. As did Ashley and Navid at their ceremony. You could tell that this was a wonderful marriage of not only two good people but also two wonderful and supportive families.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to Gil and Christy Rosado of <b>RGB Insight Photography</b> for these excellent photographs. They had some obstacles to overcome. Less than five minutes after the recessional the rain starting pouring down. I was so glad we made it through the ceremony and folks could get under cover because it was a sudden fall NC deluge. Too, it was good that the DJ and master of the ceremony music, Jim Unger of <b>Ninety-Nine Entertainment, </b> could get his gear under cover. Wonderful professionals, they made everything seem effortless as they managed the weather. And we all stayed dry. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I loved that Navid and Ashley chose these words said by character Dana Scully from the 'X-Files' for their ceremony. It seemed to fit them perfectly.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><i>'It seems to me that
the best relationships, the ones that last, are frequently the ones that are
rooted in friendship. You know, one day you look at the person and you see
something more than you did the night before. Like a switch has been flicked somewhere.
And the person who was just a friend is… suddenly the only person you can ever
imagine yourself with.'</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After saying loving personal vows that they wrote themselves, they chose such sweet words for their exchange of rings: "With this ring, I give you my
heart. ......I promise that from this
day forward,...... you shall not walk alone. ..... May my heart be your shelter
.....and my arms be your home.” The above also shows the phrasing for how they would repeat them after me. I never want anyone to feel overwhelmed by having to remember a long sentence and each phrase has power itself. We never rush the ceremony, especially when the couple gets to say words to each other. Once again, I'm soooo glad that the rain held off for just those extra minutes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They sent me these pictures after they returned from their honeymoon. They were and are a joy! I wish them many many blessings!</span><br />
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<span id="goog_4075461"></span><span id="goog_4075462"></span><br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-82271269227377641392014-12-17T10:10:00.001-05:002014-12-17T10:10:41.694-05:00Scott and Mindy in a Small Holloween Ceremony<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love synchronicity! I married Kenny and Emily at the end of May this year at their home in Chapel Hill. Well, every year they have a Halloween event at their home that even draws people from out-of-state. It's a quiet affair for people who love to celebrate Halloween with scary movies, costumes and easy going fun. Scott and Mindy, who live in West Virginia, wanted a Halloween wedding so contacted Kenny and Emily to see if it was possible to do at their home and, yes, it was!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was the Jason character from the 'Friday the 13th' movies that escorted her from the house and stood with them, knife in hand and hockey mask in place. He is the husband of their <b><a href="http://www.siglerphotos.com/">photographer friend Sara Sigler</a></b>, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">who came down with them from Morgantown, West Virginia. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. Thanks to her for these pictures.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kenny and Emily, and Sara and her husband were the only other people there and Kenny and Sara became their witnesses. A very small ceremony, but very sweet and just their style. It was a joy to be a part of. I wish them all the best!</span>Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-63016061636014857572014-12-17T09:30:00.000-05:002014-12-17T09:30:52.978-05:00Meg and Jason Light Up The Cotton Room at Their Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eGrG8cBvwl8/VJGHcZK3plI/AAAAAAAALFI/NdwIJ3njRMI/s1600/MegJason_2192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eGrG8cBvwl8/VJGHcZK3plI/AAAAAAAALFI/NdwIJ3njRMI/s1600/MegJason_2192.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In October I had the joy of marrying Jason and Meg at <b><a href="http://www.thecottonroomdurham.com/">The Cotton Room</a></b> in downtown Durham. They had a lovely exuberant bunch of people there to celebrate their wedding so I knew that their reception would be a lively affair. And they're both such joyful generous people, it was easy to see why that would be so. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Before the ceremony I made a request on their behalf, and I've never heard it put so eloquently: <i>"</i></span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i>Welcome, friends and family!
Good evening, everyone. Please be seated. Meg and Jason invite you to be truly
present at this special time. Please, turn off your cell phones and put down
your cameras. The photographers will capture how this moment looks -- I
encourage you all to capture how it feels with your hearts.” </i></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> And their photographers, Elisa and Jay, of <b>i<a href="http://www.incontrastimages.com/">Contrast Images</a></b>, did capture each moment beautifully. Thank you to them for these lovely images.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.allaroundraleighdj.com/">Eric Hodgden, of All Around Raleigh DJ</a></b> was their excellent DJ and also did the ceremony music. I love working with him. He really knows what he's doing! <b><a href="http://www.cpfco.com/">Danny Hinton or Cleveland Plant and Flower Company</a></b> provided their flowers. And Tamara and Janelle, Jason's cousins provided the string music for the ceremony. This felt like a family affair because everyone was just so delighted with the love that this couple has created. And I understand why.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In just over three years,
Meg and Jason have gone through (collectively) four job changes and two moves.
They have bought their first house together, adopted a puppy and traveled as often as possible. Through it all they find that they can rely on their deep bond of love and
support of each other to accomplish their goals and to enjoy it all together.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Meg
is forever grateful of Jason’s unending support and patience. She says he is
the rock in their relationship. She
loves how close they are, and for the friendship that they have created. Jason is
grateful for Meg’s love and passion. He
says that it is the best feeling in the world to know the person you are going
to spend the rest of your life with will always be there for you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Meg says it best
for both of them,</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">‘To me, happiness is
making a life with Jason.’</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Jason proposed to Meg it was a beautiful, private moment that they shared on the Greek Orthodox Easter last year. Afterward they had fun celebrating with friends over bottles of champagne and cigars. They told me that they were pretty much up all night! And they are still celebrating. This time it's their wedding. I hope that they'll be celebrating for many years to come. I wouldn't be surprised!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3SZNHQdzZ2M/VJGHyEi4Q8I/AAAAAAAALFg/enSHBOX2WaM/s1600/MegJason_2195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3SZNHQdzZ2M/VJGHyEi4Q8I/AAAAAAAALFg/enSHBOX2WaM/s1600/MegJason_2195.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-18959494246546473182014-12-15T15:33:00.000-05:002014-12-15T15:33:43.519-05:00Ian and Alex Marry on a Gorgeous Day at The Raleigh Rose Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNu30yoHdAQ/VI80pm5E8EI/AAAAAAAALEo/DQ7x8_prUog/s1600/Ian%2Band%2BAlex%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2BRaleigh%2BRose%2BGarden%2C%2BAug%2B2014%2C%2BMichael%2BMoss%2BPhotographer%2C%2Bafter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNu30yoHdAQ/VI80pm5E8EI/AAAAAAAALEo/DQ7x8_prUog/s1600/Ian%2Band%2BAlex%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2BRaleigh%2BRose%2BGarden%2C%2BAug%2B2014%2C%2BMichael%2BMoss%2BPhotographer%2C%2Bafter.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a treat to meet and marry Alex and Ian. We met over email and since I was in Spain we began planning long distance. And, since they were going to Spain on their honeymoon, to Barcelona, in fact where we were, I could get a map of the city for them. They're a delightful couple who love traveling and so we have even more in common. Thanks to photographer <b><a href="http://www.michaelmoss.com/">Michael Moss</a></b> for these fabulous pictures, <b><a href="http://www.sallyoakley.com/">Sally Oakley</a></b> for all her planning expertise, which was key since their venue closed on them almost at the last minute and they had to find somewhere else. Sally ensured that all went well! Thanks to musicians </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Saintsapollo">Autumn Brand & Kaitlin Grady</a></b> for their beautiful string accompaniment</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> for the ceremony, a</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">nd thanks to <b><a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/">The English Garden</a></b> for their stunning floral arrangements.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Ian and Alex bonded
first over food, especially Ian cooking a wonderful vegetarian meal for Alex on
their second date. They quickly became best
friends who cherish each day together, traveling around the world, and sharing
their time together. They are grateful to have found one another and are able
to be themselves and dream of another day together. They look forward to the
days ahead of growing closer to one another and going on any adventure that may
come their way. <span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CCYH8eXuK9c/VI80jAbnCcI/AAAAAAAALEg/-RQ7a7hce-o/s1600/Ian%2Band%2BAlex%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2BRaleigh%2BRose%2BGarden%2C%2BAug%2B2014%2C%2BMichael%2BMoss%2BPhotographer%2C%2Bkiss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CCYH8eXuK9c/VI80jAbnCcI/AAAAAAAALEg/-RQ7a7hce-o/s1600/Ian%2Band%2BAlex%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2BRaleigh%2BRose%2BGarden%2C%2BAug%2B2014%2C%2BMichael%2BMoss%2BPhotographer%2C%2Bkiss.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The lyrics to Dave Matthew's song, 'Loving Wings' had special meaning for them so their friend, Lindsey, read them as part of the ceremony.</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; text-align: center;"> </i><br />
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i>So I give to you my everything </i></span></div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<i>You've given me these loving wings </i></div>
<i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Angels have all gathered 'round </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
To hear me sing my love out loud. </div>
</span></i><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Your lightly love lifted me away </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Out of a darkness cold and gray </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Now I work beneath the midday sun </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
My cool blue water you have come. </div>
</span></i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
So I give to you my everything </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
You've given me these loving wings </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Angels have all gathered 'round </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
To hear me sing my love out loud. </div>
</span></i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
So take your place here next to me </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
And I'll take my place there next to thee </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
And no matter how far we may roam </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
It's by your side I'll make my home. </div>
</span></i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
So I give to you my everything </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
You've given me these loving wings </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Angels have all gathered 'round </div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
To hear me sing my love out loud.</div>
</span></i><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IGj_kW_CoN0/VI80rXq2SPI/AAAAAAAALEw/3DHHZ5xVdbg/s1600/Ian%2Band%2BAlex%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2BRaleigh%2BRose%2BGarden%2C%2BAug%2B2014%2C%2BMichael%2BMoss%2BPhotographer%2C%2Blong%2Bview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IGj_kW_CoN0/VI80rXq2SPI/AAAAAAAALEw/3DHHZ5xVdbg/s1600/Ian%2Band%2BAlex%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2BRaleigh%2BRose%2BGarden%2C%2BAug%2B2014%2C%2BMichael%2BMoss%2BPhotographer%2C%2Blong%2Bview.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The garden was in full bloom. This fit the fullness in everyone's hearts. They're a dedicated, fun and well matched couple who will have lots of shared adventures, perhaps the best of all will be their marriage. I wish them both a lifetime of joyful years together.</span>Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-59918400716917487612014-12-15T14:18:00.000-05:002014-12-15T14:18:13.729-05:00Cal and Bridget Marry in an Intimate Ceremony at UUFR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cal and Bridget are just getting ready to spend their first holiday season as a married couple but I had the joy of marrying them on August 31st. Their church home is the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Raleigh on Wade Avenue, aka UUFR and since I'm a UU minister, it was especially joyful for me to be a part of their wedding.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpGij3oGdK0/VI8vXY0S5AI/AAAAAAAALEA/EX-6hoZtFWY/s1600/Cal%2Band%2BBridget%2Bat%2BUUFR%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpGij3oGdK0/VI8vXY0S5AI/AAAAAAAALEA/EX-6hoZtFWY/s1600/Cal%2Band%2BBridget%2Bat%2BUUFR%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bceremony.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First of all, I loved their music. Grandparents entered to 'Make You Feel My Love' by Adele, parents entered to 'Luckiest' by Ben Folds and Bridget entered with her father to 'Can't Help Falling in Love With You,' by Elvis Presley. Each piece carefully chosen to convey their love.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnhem184a_8/VI8vbpSfJ_I/AAAAAAAALEI/9K7x3grA5X8/s1600/Cal%2Band%2BBridget%2Bat%2BUUFR%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnhem184a_8/VI8vbpSfJ_I/AAAAAAAALEI/9K7x3grA5X8/s1600/Cal%2Band%2BBridget%2Bat%2BUUFR%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Family is very important to them both. I thanked Bridget's parents with these words from her: <i> '</i></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i>Kevin
and Maureen, Bridget wishes to thank you for all the hard work, planning and
support that have gone into making today’s celebration possible. She thanks you
for always believing in her, but challenging her to be a better, kinder, more
principled person. From both of you, she’s learned integrity and honesty and
been given a strong example of the joy that comes with a long and successful
marriage. She thanks you also for a fun-filled childhood, in which, above all
things, there was always song, dance and laughter.' </i>And Cal thanked his parents with these words: '</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Kathy
and George, Calvin would like to thank you for always supporting him and
allowing him to make his own decisions. He thanks you for believing in him and
making sure he always knew he was loved. He would also like to thank you for teaching
him virtues that have made him who he is today.' I am so glad that they took this opportunity to show them how much they were grateful for their love and guidance.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">They chose readings by Rumi and Hafiz, had a salt ceremony, and ended with an Irish Wedding Blessing which fits Bridget's heritage perfectly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">In introducing them, I said, '<i>Today
we celebrate the amazing grace of their love for each other. When they first met they knew that the other
was special, but it took a year and serendipity and a windy day for them to
take what started out as neighborly consideration and kindness into a deeper
understanding and appreciation. Bridget
had been immediately attracted to Cal’s openness and warmth, his
thoughtfulness, and how he is interested in and cares deeply about big ideas. Calvin
loved Bridget’s laugh, her confidence and her silliness, that she always seemed
to be having fun, and had a quirky style of dress. Bridget put Calvin at ease,
Calvin kept Bridget on her toes. Even these four years later they love that
while they have a foundation of comfort and understanding, their life doesn’t
get boring. They still find ways to
excite and challenge each other.'</i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">They are a considerate and intentional, as well as a fun couple. They wrote moving vows to each other and delighted in this moment to share with all those they love this wonderful person who has become their partner and soul mate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">As I said in the benediction of their ceremony, '</span><i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">So may this day be an open door through which
Bridget and Calvin will go forth to build the dearest of all relationships - a
happy, harmonious marriage.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">May the
years deal gently with them; walking together, may they find far more in life
than either would have found alone.'</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I wish them many many blessings!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-894272125043581992014-12-03T14:08:00.001-05:002014-12-03T14:08:47.867-05:00Dalton and Cameron Marry in August Amid Great Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gTaZO-Z3rE4/VH9Ysh68pBI/AAAAAAAALC4/PTP7cfIYZ9M/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2Bwith%2BRev.%2BRobin%2BRenteria.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gTaZO-Z3rE4/VH9Ysh68pBI/AAAAAAAALC4/PTP7cfIYZ9M/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2Bwith%2BRev.%2BRobin%2BRenteria.jpeg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;">I have not written a blog entry all fall but couldn't let the year end without honoring this wonderful couple. I married them in August at the </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/QuarryHillsGolfGrahamNC">Quarry Hill Golf Club in Graham, NC</a></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;">. Thank you to photographer </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.jerrydillardphotography.com/">Jerry Dillard</a></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"> for these wonderful photographs. He introduced me to Cameron and Dalton for which I'll ever be grateful. They are one of those couples who inspire others. They've been sweethearts a long time and have supported each other through sorrows and trials as well as finding the joy in each day.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ihtRI3xgefE/VH9Yra0Fm1I/AAAAAAAALCk/rC62ZqFTTPg/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bduring%2Bceremony.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ihtRI3xgefE/VH9Yra0Fm1I/AAAAAAAALCk/rC62ZqFTTPg/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bduring%2Bceremony.jpeg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We missed Cameron's grandfather, Poppe, who had recently passed, but he was with us in spirit and with so much love for him. Cameron cherishes the memory of him as a dear friend who she talked to every day. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Cameron thanked her mother for being the first
person to show her what love is, for always putting her first and raising her
better than she could ever imagine.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Dalton thanked his parents for putting him in this world because if they
had not he wouldn't have met Cameron.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">He
also thanked his granddaddy for helping him so much throughout his life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I love this opportunity to let others know how we loved them and how they have shaped us through their love. Dalton and Cameron are a couple who are grateful for the joy and the love in their lives. It shows in their generous natures.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TXiicJ1kmWc/VH9YsHMWmrI/AAAAAAAALC0/FKs51c2XE0g/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bvows.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TXiicJ1kmWc/VH9YsHMWmrI/AAAAAAAALC0/FKs51c2XE0g/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bvows.jpeg" height="400" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Cameron and Dalton, had the unique pleasure of growing up together, from their first
meeting in fifth grade.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> Even in 5th grade Cameron was attracted to Dalton’s silliness
and his ability to make her laugh, no matter the situation, and Dalton, thought
Cameron was pretty and very nice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">They still love being together, whether it be doing daily errands or sharing large
adventures. If they’re doing it together, they’re happy. You are best friends. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">They are each committed to the other’s happiness as
well as their own. Cameron values Dalton’s being the calm to her crazy. And Dalton, so appreciates how Cameron has supported him through both the ups and downs of the past years, Dalton
calling it ‘one heck of an adventure.’ </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">I loved the words we used to describe their wedding rings: 'These rings are an outward and visible sign of the inward and invisible grace, which
unites your two hearts in love. They are especially significant because
the circle of these rings is a symbol of the unending and enduring quality of
the love which Cameron and Dalton are sharing today.'</span></em></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
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<em><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let
us pray: Bless, O God, these rings, that they who give and wear them may abide
in Your peace, and continue in Your favor, unto their life’s end; through Jesus
Christ. Amen.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a joy to invite them to share their first kiss as husband and wife.</span></span></em></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cZ93l9nXOq8/VH9Yr9tfjTI/AAAAAAAALCs/sgZJnoV9-D4/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bkiss.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cZ93l9nXOq8/VH9Yr9tfjTI/AAAAAAAALCs/sgZJnoV9-D4/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bkiss.jpeg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"> And to introduce them to one and all for the first time as a married couple.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W5u5JTpLo9w/VH9YrTzzaZI/AAAAAAAALCo/r2C2OeNc8MI/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bintroduction.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W5u5JTpLo9w/VH9YrTzzaZI/AAAAAAAALCo/r2C2OeNc8MI/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bintroduction.jpeg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They are wonderful proof of the power of love. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Z-BHDzqI1s/VH9YrMvRzyI/AAAAAAAALCg/GZlbUKU5NOQ/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bend%2Bof%2Bceremony.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Z-BHDzqI1s/VH9YrMvRzyI/AAAAAAAALCg/GZlbUKU5NOQ/s1600/Dalton%2Band%2BCameron%2B%2C%2BRev%2BRobin%2BRenteria%2C%2Bend%2Bof%2Bceremony.jpeg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Dalton proposed to Cameon by writing ‘will you
marry me’ in the dew on her car at 6:30 in the morning before she left for
work, then successfully snuck up beside her and got down on one knee holding an
engagement ring. That sense of play is part of what makes them special. I trust that it will ground their love and their friendship for a lifetime. I with them many many blessings.</span>Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-33562304748610961982014-09-12T14:22:00.000-04:002014-09-12T14:22:09.484-04:00Greg and Donna Light Up The Stone Chapel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qhtvFTvpsRY/VBHgLd3YIuI/AAAAAAAAK5o/hskrGIoj31M/s1600/IMG_0088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qhtvFTvpsRY/VBHgLd3YIuI/AAAAAAAAK5o/hskrGIoj31M/s1600/IMG_0088.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Greg and Donna were a delight. We celebrated the joy that they have found together. Each has had some sorrow in their lives and they now are ready to have fun. And they have found it with each other. They laugh a lot, love nesting in their home, and they appreciate each other. They know that everything in their past has made then who they are: loving, kind, compassionate people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I loved working with them to create their ceremony - Donna so bubbly and free spirited, and Greg with his quiet grins and twinkling eyes. They are so well matched, they light up a room. And this is exactly what they did on their wedding day. Thank you to Amy Allen at <b><a href="http://amyallenphotography.com/">Amy Allen Photography</a></b> for her wonderful photographs.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/"></a></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-symiPIQR_Rw/VBHgA7gP9_I/AAAAAAAAK5Y/2iH-f_T1mNQ/s1600/IMG_0066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-symiPIQR_Rw/VBHgA7gP9_I/AAAAAAAAK5Y/2iH-f_T1mNQ/s1600/IMG_0066.jpg" height="400" style="cursor: move;" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/"></a><br /></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gTF1X0QTrLE/VBHgMFw59UI/AAAAAAAAK5s/QI8jHVkAJG8/s1600/IMG_9969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gTF1X0QTrLE/VBHgMFw59UI/AAAAAAAAK5s/QI8jHVkAJG8/s1600/IMG_9969.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Greg and Donna wanted a Christian ceremony that was simple. No sermonizing. Just God blessing their marriage. They truly appreciate the meaning and mystery of loving another person and the amazing grace that you feel when you find the right person. <b><a href="http://stonechapel.com/">The Stone Chapel in Wake Forest</a></b> was perfect for their intimate romantic and God embracing ceremony.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Greg's daughters and his brother were his attendants. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Donna's son walked her down the aisle to the strains of 'I Believe in You and Me' by The Four Tops. Thanks to <b><a href="http://www.theraleighweddingdj.com/">Stephen Scott, their DJ</a></b> for their ceremony. He was very professional and made coordination easy.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/"></a></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bwelqBTYum0/VBHfupg1YsI/AAAAAAAAK44/AuzZmlUvXTw/s1600/IMG_0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bwelqBTYum0/VBHfupg1YsI/AAAAAAAAK44/AuzZmlUvXTw/s1600/IMG_0018.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They met without romance in mind. Simply to have a buddy to hang out with and they found when they talked on the phone that their feelings and philosophy and interested and values were the same. </span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/"></a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-14g_LOi_mZM/VBHfrnrtc0I/AAAAAAAAK4w/K4M2HtvAGJ4/s1600/IMG_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-14g_LOi_mZM/VBHfrnrtc0I/AAAAAAAAK4w/K4M2HtvAGJ4/s1600/IMG_0007.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They went to the same high school but didn't know each other at the time. In fact, Greg went to school with Donna's brother. Now they are building a shared future together.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/"></a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MZwPzVkygQI/VBHfxnmlg3I/AAAAAAAAK5A/Y0CrS2gZKuQ/s1600/IMG_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MZwPzVkygQI/VBHfxnmlg3I/AAAAAAAAK5A/Y0CrS2gZKuQ/s1600/IMG_0022.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As part of their wedding </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">we did a Celtic Handfasting Ceremony binding their hands together as their hearts are bound. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's a lovely ceremony that is the origin of the terms 'tying the knot' and giving one's hand in marriage.'</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5889648745168757280" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DVK9hic6Jqk/VBM32STbc5I/AAAAAAAAK6U/LpMhnSCkvko/s1600/IMG_0033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DVK9hic6Jqk/VBM32STbc5I/AAAAAAAAK6U/LpMhnSCkvko/s1600/IMG_0033.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then as their first gift to others as a married couple they gave a rose to each of their mothers. It was a gracious and moving touch to a sweet and tender ceremony.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.englishgardenraleigh.com/">The English Garden </a></b></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">provided the beautiful flowers, too.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nSqfLk9thRM/VBM3005E2qI/AAAAAAAAK6M/QKbN_BxGUrY/s1600/IMG_0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-weight: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nSqfLk9thRM/VBM3005E2qI/AAAAAAAAK6M/QKbN_BxGUrY/s1600/IMG_0061.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHr8cvtj_Ks/VBM33Q6-_II/AAAAAAAAK6Y/rVbhhapqSOM/s1600/IMG_0062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-weight: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHr8cvtj_Ks/VBM33Q6-_II/AAAAAAAAK6Y/rVbhhapqSOM/s1600/IMG_0062.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">I wish them so much happiness. They are very special people and who bring joy to so many others with their generous loving manner. They bring a smile to my heart.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-UMaeeIpiM/VBHf3pJbpYI/AAAAAAAAK5I/WOTB3XAgvOI/s1600/IMG_0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-UMaeeIpiM/VBHf3pJbpYI/AAAAAAAAK5I/WOTB3XAgvOI/s1600/IMG_0025.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> And it's always fun to see couples who really enjoy their wedding day kisses!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--FXQRhP1oVY/VBHgNHLZvLI/AAAAAAAAK54/phog8kG4XWA/s1600/IMG_0092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--FXQRhP1oVY/VBHgNHLZvLI/AAAAAAAAK54/phog8kG4XWA/s1600/IMG_0092.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-65167591077539156662014-05-27T15:18:00.001-04:002014-05-29T08:36:47.504-04:00Great Joy Marrying Andy and Jean at Spruce Pine Lodge in Bahama<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hZTd3eMr1IU/U3KFH5rx4UI/AAAAAAAAJKU/H5gOqkvJGB0/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+John+Elkins+Photographer,+after.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hZTd3eMr1IU/U3KFH5rx4UI/AAAAAAAAJKU/H5gOqkvJGB0/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+John+Elkins+Photographer,+after.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to <b><a href="http://johnelkinsphoto.com/">John Elkins of John Elkins Photography in Durham</a></b> for these wonderful shots. It was a genuine joy marrying Andy and Jean. They seemed to be having a great time, too. They were also uniting their families into one. They have an exuberant, chaotic, joyful bunch of kids that are also polite and respectful when needed, and who are all truly happy for them. So getting everyone together with the special intention of celebrating Andy and Jean's love was a treat for everyone. This sign they had at their reception seemed to fit them well.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pVn1iydSO7U/U4citSMZuDI/AAAAAAAAJME/PLTDn1Juagk/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+John+Elkins+Photography,+sign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pVn1iydSO7U/U4citSMZuDI/AAAAAAAAJME/PLTDn1Juagk/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+John+Elkins+Photography,+sign.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They had their ceremony and Reception at</span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <a href="http://durhamnc.gov/ich/op/prd/Pages/Special-Facilities.aspx">Spruce Pine Lodge in Bahama</a>. </b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's owned by the City of Durham so is not too expensive, and it has lovely facilities for weddings less than 100 guests. I've been marrying couples there for 20 years and highly recommend it. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WRyRGW1L8b4/U4ckyq1a6HI/AAAAAAAAJMY/XMvPq7WWrM4/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+John+Elkins+Photography,+ceremony+wedding+party.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WRyRGW1L8b4/U4ckyq1a6HI/AAAAAAAAJMY/XMvPq7WWrM4/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+John+Elkins+Photography,+ceremony+wedding+party.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was just right for Jean and Andy.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m5eXohsXoKY/U3KFHlolfEI/AAAAAAAAJKY/u9x1nZ45GEs/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+John+Elkins+Photographer,+ceremony.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m5eXohsXoKY/U3KFHlolfEI/AAAAAAAAJKY/u9x1nZ45GEs/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+John+Elkins+Photographer,+ceremony.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I first met with them and some of their children in January to plan their May wedding. They were all already enjoying the process. The only parent there would be Andy's mom. She's special to Jean, too, and we included a special part in the ceremony to honor her.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M77cQy69swo/U3KFiIyErVI/AAAAAAAAJKs/ywu1n_qKA3w/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+John+Elkins+Photographer,+rings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M77cQy69swo/U3KFiIyErVI/AAAAAAAAJKs/ywu1n_qKA3w/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+John+Elkins+Photographer,+rings.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a part of their vows they said to each other, <i>'I give you my hand, my heart, and my love from this day forward for as long as we both shall live. </i></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They had a family sand ceremony which I hope to have pictures of soon. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9BF59fpq4c/U4ciRpLfQMI/AAAAAAAAJLw/OhoHiv7_BKs/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+John+Elkins+Photography,+sand+ceremony.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9BF59fpq4c/U4ciRpLfQMI/AAAAAAAAJLw/OhoHiv7_BKs/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+John+Elkins+Photography,+sand+ceremony.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each child had his or her own color sand and Jean and Andy poured some sand before them and after them symbolizing that their love is the foundation for their family, and protects and shelters their family, too. I loved it.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ei1tgcQ7WE/U4ciREElXKI/AAAAAAAAJLs/skIFY2Y_6w0/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+John+Elkins+Photography,+couple+sand+ceremony.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ei1tgcQ7WE/U4ciREElXKI/AAAAAAAAJLs/skIFY2Y_6w0/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+John+Elkins+Photography,+couple+sand+ceremony.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I need to advise some couples at how to kiss at their wedding but not Andy and Jean.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-feaDC2CUGC0/U3KFN0g0kfI/AAAAAAAAJKk/zaS9sbCBmJo/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+John+Elkins+Photographer,+kiss.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-feaDC2CUGC0/U3KFN0g0kfI/AAAAAAAAJKk/zaS9sbCBmJo/s1600/Andy+and+Jean,+Spruce+Pine+Lodge,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+John+Elkins+Photographer,+kiss.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Andy's brothers were his attendants, everyone kidding him all during the rehearsal. Jean's son, Tommy, walked her down the aisle. And their daughters Ashley, Jasmine, and Heather were some of her attendants. It was definitely a family affair.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jean sent me this lovely note after their ceremony, '<i>Hi Robin,</i></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks for the beautiful ceremony!!! It felt so surreal like I was in a perfect dream. Everyone spoke highly of you. ....Many blessings to you and your family. </span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Jean' </i>And she signed it with her married surname. Definitely sweet. I love looking at their pictures. They are all joyful loving people. It was a treat to have them in my life at this special time.</span><br />
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Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-44201428673736258642014-05-13T14:18:00.003-04:002014-05-13T14:18:42.124-04:00Chris and Schuyler Marry in an Intimate Family Ceremony at Umstead Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a chilly March day for Chris and Schuyler's ceremony, but it was at one of my favorite spots. The balcony of the rough stone shelter near the Reedy Creek entrance of Umstead Park. And they were a joy to brighten the day. Schulyer sent me these photographs that their photographer Erin Rizza took. I thank them both! Chris and Schuyler met in San Diego, where Chris is from, and from where his family traveled to be with them. They had at most 30 people for their ceremony, just immediate family and close friends with a chair only for Schulyer's grandmother to be seated. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They have been together seven years, meeting when seeing one another across a crowded room. The stuff of song lyrics.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Madelyn, Schuyler's niece, was their flower girls. She is only two so was primarily in the role to look cute and did that very well! Schulyer's attendants were casual yet so together in the light pastels they wore and their bouquets of babies breath.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And Chris's attendants looked sharp yet casual. I was so impressed with what this couple did on a small budget and with close friends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I enjoyed every moment. Especially during the ceremony.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And Madelyn enjoyed every minute, too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Here is Schuyler's mom signing the license. She and Chris's step-mother</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> were the witnesses and I asked them to sign the license before the ceremony so that I wouldn't have to interrupt the congratulations after. Then I sign the license after the ceremony is over. This is the view off the balcony in that corner of Umstead Park. It really is lovely.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chris and Schuyler chose classic vows to exchange and then a Celtic hand-fasting, honoring Schuyler's Irish background, which included the words: </span><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 'Above you are the stars and below you is the earth. Like the stars, your love should be a constant source of light, and like the earth, a firm foundation form which to grow.' </i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is a grounded loving couple. I see only good in their future.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Everyone....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> then proceeded to a clubhouse to celebrate with Clyde Cooper's BBQ and cake, and much enjoyment. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Schuyler and Chris went to the Bahamas for their honeymoon and while it rained on and off while they were there, they emailed me how much fun they had. And they thanked me for everything. I wish them much much joy and many happy years.</span></div>
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Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-44137908187485660162014-05-09T09:52:00.002-04:002014-05-09T09:52:40.297-04:00Jerem and Mary Marry Amid Great Joy At the Haw River Ballroom <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Mary and Jerem live in Chicago so we met via Skype last October to begin planning their April wedding at the <b><a href="http://www.hawriverballroom.com/">Haw River Ballroom in Saxapahaw</a></b>. This is a great new venue and people are discovering it in droves. Yay! Joyfully it was a warm sunny Spring day for Jerem and Mary's wedding and they could take advantage of all the beautiful scenery around them. Carolyn Scott and her husband, Geoff, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">of <b><a href="http://www.carolynscottphotography.com/">Carolyn Scott Photography</a></b>, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">were their fabulous photographers and have many more pictures on their web site. They're always great. Thanks to Carolyn for these wonderful pictures.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The origami cranes made a lovely backdrop to set off the ceremony site. Mary entered the room to the strains of 'Luckiest' by Ben Folds setting the loving sweet romantic tone that Jerem and Mary wanted. </span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And the ballroom was the perfect setting for their eclectic mix of family and friends from Chicago, St. Louis, Colorado and as far away as Calgary, Canada. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This venue is also known for the terrific musicians who play here on non-wedding evenings.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I loved the neon sign saying 'Thrills' pointing right at them. In their ceremony we told their guests how Jerem and Mary love how each person's strength fill in the other's gap. They even find the idiosyncrasies of the other endearing - that rather than driving the other one nuts, they seem to enhance their affection. Together they are better than the sum of their parts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We told guests that they could clap, or or laugh as the mood struck them during the ceremony, and I believe that that's just what the picture below indicates. Notice Jerem's bow tie. We all loved it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They chose a <b>Unity Candle Ceremony</b>, never lovelier, than with these succulents and the cranes surrounding them. We offered these words for this ceremony. '<i>May the brightness of the candle you light together shine throughout your lives, giving you courage and reassurance in darkness. May its warmth give you shelter from the cold. And may its energy fill your spirits with strength and joy.'</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the words, '<i>Jerem, you may kiss your bride!</i>' he did just that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then after pictures it was a rousing celebration. Here is a little of their decorations. I loved them. <b><a href="http://shindigsnc.com/">Heather Cook of Shindigs</a></b>, in Durham, was their fabulous planner and coordinator. And she created the flowers! What a Godsend in her multi-talents and in making sure everything went smoothly for them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the below not only did they keep it simple, but styling. And the <b>Saxapahaw Catering Company</b> did their cake and catering. From the menu it looks fabulous! I don't see their name on Google. If you're interested I'd contact the ballroom. They'd know.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--6tRt6Jsf60/U2zSOwtpB1I/AAAAAAAAJHc/2agBR4eoxcw/s1600/Jerem+and+Mary+April+2014,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Haw+River+Ballroom,+Carolyn+Scott+Photography,+menu+board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--6tRt6Jsf60/U2zSOwtpB1I/AAAAAAAAJHc/2agBR4eoxcw/s1600/Jerem+and+Mary+April+2014,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Haw+River+Ballroom,+Carolyn+Scott+Photography,+menu+board.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each place setting was different creating a magical whole.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OelTGoxpDPo/U2zSSQbz7MI/AAAAAAAAJHw/BpaRCEOZzqQ/s1600/Jerem+and+Mary+April+2014,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Haw+River+Ballroom,+Carolyn+Scott+Photography,+place+setting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OelTGoxpDPo/U2zSSQbz7MI/AAAAAAAAJHw/BpaRCEOZzqQ/s1600/Jerem+and+Mary+April+2014,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Haw+River+Ballroom,+Carolyn+Scott+Photography,+place+setting.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love this picture capturing who they are together and their whole day. In their ceremony I offered the Southern expression, 'Every pot has its lid.' Mary and Jerem fit together so well, so joyfully, I now know where the expression comes from.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M5qw91MQlzg/U2zSSmcZcWI/AAAAAAAAJH0/QHwEoLlCoFM/s1600/Jerem+and+Mary+April+2014,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Haw+River+Ballroom,+Carolyn+Scott+Photography,+picture+at+the+Eno.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M5qw91MQlzg/U2zSSmcZcWI/AAAAAAAAJH0/QHwEoLlCoFM/s1600/Jerem+and+Mary+April+2014,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Haw+River+Ballroom,+Carolyn+Scott+Photography,+picture+at+the+Eno.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I got this wonderful note from them after they got back from their honeymoon, '</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>Hi Robin!</i></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well we are back from our honeymoon and still walking on clouds from the wedding! It was a gorgeous ceremony and we could not be happier with our choice of officiant :). ...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We haven't gotten digital copies of the pictures yet, but Carolyn has shared some on her blog. You'll see there is a great one of you in the ones she has shared!</span></i></div>
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<i style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.carolynscottphotography.com/2014/04/11/maryjerems-wedding-at-the-haw-river-ballroom/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">http://www.<wbr></wbr>carolynscottphotography.com/<wbr></wbr>2014/04/11/maryjerems-wedding-<wbr></wbr>at-the-haw-river-ballroom/</a><u>. </u></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you again for all of the work and love you put into our wedding. It was a real pleasure! </span></i><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love, </span></i><i style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mary & Jerem' </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a labor of love for me in creating their ceremony with them. I wouldn't have had it any other way. I wish them many many years of happiness.</span><br />
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<br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-84404842778305997452014-05-09T09:01:00.004-04:002014-05-09T09:01:43.189-04:00Dave and Mendi Marry Surrounded by Loved Ones at The Old Well at UNC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TL2JrY6mbVY/U2zK4_RLYjI/AAAAAAAAJGY/FXDT8Qkec4s/s1600/Dave+and+Mendi,+April+2014,+UNC+Old+Well,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TL2JrY6mbVY/U2zK4_RLYjI/AAAAAAAAJGY/FXDT8Qkec4s/s1600/Dave+and+Mendi,+April+2014,+UNC+Old+Well,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dave and Mendi are a delight. We began planning their April 2014 wedding in January 2013 when we met for the first time. They were both graduates of UNC and wanted to be married at the<b> Old Well on UNC-Chapel Hill </b>campus. And they did. Now this is a coup. You can't reserve the Old Well for events so you have to show up and be flexible. Grads and wedding couples often come there for photographs. Would there be enough private space and quiet to pull this off? Yes! And even with 50 guests! I've done many small weddings over the years at The Old Well but never with 50 guests in attendance. And Mendi and Dave did it in style. Their style. They even created an aisle with brightly colored ribbon. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XkGl_2osTls/U2zK5YIvrrI/AAAAAAAAJGc/QSGzGMzDJuQ/s1600/Dave+and+Mendi,+April+2014,+UNC+Old+Well,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+extolling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XkGl_2osTls/U2zK5YIvrrI/AAAAAAAAJGc/QSGzGMzDJuQ/s1600/Dave+and+Mendi,+April+2014,+UNC+Old+Well,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+extolling.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They are both easy going and agree on what's important and don't expect to read each other's mind. All great portents for a wonderful marriage. They wanted a simple ceremony that included their 3 adult children. And the wanted a Ring Warming. We all loved watching the rings go through their loved ones hands on the way to theirs, even the baby in the stroller being given a chance to hold and bless the rings.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mD8QZx6j6Zc/U2zK5AE4VYI/AAAAAAAAJGk/5pOHNjRmHCo/s1600/Dave+and+Mendi,+April+2014,+UNC+Old+Well,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+looking+outward.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mD8QZx6j6Zc/U2zK5AE4VYI/AAAAAAAAJGk/5pOHNjRmHCo/s1600/Dave+and+Mendi,+April+2014,+UNC+Old+Well,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+looking+outward.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then it was time for Dave to put Mendi's ring on her finger and we had carefully planned a surprise for Mendi. Dave got Mendi the companion ring to her wedding band to wear on the other side of her engagement ring and she didn't know that he had done that. It was a treat to have the surprise work so well. She loved it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I offered this blessing, which they chose, on their marriage:, <i>"Year and years from now, may you look at one another and be able to say, 'With you, I have lived the life I always wanted to live. With you, I have become the person I always longed to be.'" </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When they got back from their honeymoon, Dave sent me this note, '</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>Good morning Robin-</i></span><br />
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<i>Saturday was perfect! Thank you so much! ... Dave.' </i>I'm delighted for them. They are a wonderful match, and judging by the cheering at their ceremony, everyone else knows so, too. I wish them all the happiness in the world.</div>
Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-40649713685371975372014-05-06T20:44:00.001-04:002014-05-06T20:44:34.707-04:00Eric and Amanda Light Up The Highgrove Estate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-De4948d1JqA/U2klOOVEnSI/AAAAAAAAJFY/iH0cATC6B6E/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-De4948d1JqA/U2klOOVEnSI/AAAAAAAAJFY/iH0cATC6B6E/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,+after.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Amanda and Eric are joyful, playful people. On their first date they talked 4 or 5 hours and have been together 3 years. They wanted a wedding that was fun. Almost all their guests would be traveling to their wedding and they just wanted to celebrate their love with those they love at <b><a href="http://www.highgrove-nc.com/">The Highgrove Estate in Fuquay Varina</a></b> last October. It was a perfect day. Amanda is a teacher and Eric is a firefighter. They both are committed to their vocations and to making their life enjoyable. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5sVoi7dF6w8/U2klN06SRkI/AAAAAAAAJFQ/vcirwovuHz4/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,+processional+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5sVoi7dF6w8/U2klN06SRkI/AAAAAAAAJFQ/vcirwovuHz4/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,+processional+(2).jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to<a href="http://www.julia-wade.com/"> <b>Julia Wade Photography</b></a> for these wonderful photographs. From beginning to end, we all had a wonderful time. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XwFegJQbvnQ/U2klPyRuG7I/AAAAAAAAJFk/MY_LOeuwlM8/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,+processional+of+the+bride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XwFegJQbvnQ/U2klPyRuG7I/AAAAAAAAJFk/MY_LOeuwlM8/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,+processional+of+the+bride.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eric definitely enjoying Amanda walk down the aisle to the <b>strains of <a href="http://www.meredith.edu/directory/faculty-and-staff-2">violinist Christina Wohlford.</a></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiDAfbVNrFY/U2klRvBiePI/AAAAAAAAJF4/k_O6jiHx49A/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,,+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiDAfbVNrFY/U2klRvBiePI/AAAAAAAAJF4/k_O6jiHx49A/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,,+ceremony.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They wanted a ceremony in which their guests could participate so we told guests that they could clap or cheer or laugh as the mood struck them and at the end of the ceremony their guests helped me pronounce them husband and wife by repeating after me:, '<i>We your family and friends...now pronounce you... husband and wife.'</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I don't remember what we were laughing at in the below shot. We sure did have fun throughout their ceremony.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x8i5SRBa3IY/U2klNtcfdOI/AAAAAAAAJFM/r1Shdr3suNw/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,+laugh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x8i5SRBa3IY/U2klNtcfdOI/AAAAAAAAJFM/r1Shdr3suNw/s1600/Eric+and+Amanda,+Highgrove,+Rev.+Robin+Renteria,+Julia+Wade+Photography,+laugh.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A special treat for Amanda is that Eric's mother, Linda made Amanda's bouquet. In their ceremony I got to say, '<i>May the spirit of love that lives in and around all of us fill your hearts and bless your lives.' </i>They practically danced down the aisle and I knew that they had had a wonderful time at their ceremony. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In Amanda's note to me she said, <i>'</i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>Thank you again for such an amazing experience.' </i>It was a delight for me, too, and I wish them much much happiness.</span><br />
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<br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-57270609043809348242014-05-06T13:56:00.001-04:002014-05-06T13:58:00.157-04:00Jamil and Nasrin Have an Intimate Family Wedding at The Fearrington<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uyf1ZF6Di_A/U2kbdTFdKxI/AAAAAAAAJE8/Akmzmx2kg-A/s1600/NJ-68+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uyf1ZF6Di_A/U2kbdTFdKxI/AAAAAAAAJE8/Akmzmx2kg-A/s1600/NJ-68+copy.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I love North Carolina in December when we have a beautiful day that isn't too hot. The day was perfect for Jamil and Nasrin for their small outdoor wedding at <a href="http://www.fearrington.com/wedding/"><b>The</b> <b>Fearrington Inn</b></a> in their courtyard with the fountain. Thank you to Gil and Christy Rosado at <b><a href="http://www.rgbinsight.com/">RGB Insight Photography</a></b> for permission to use these wonderful photographs. And, of course, thanks to Jamil and Nasrin for sending them to me. I understand that Gil and Christy created a blog fo them that has many more wonderful pictures. Thanks, too, to <b>Cheryl Anne Kast at The Fearrington</b> for her wonderful coordination.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I loved getting to know Jamil and Nasrin. Jamil contacted me first and I liked him immediately on the phone. Then I found out that they were going to the Napa Valley for a pre-honeymoon (when they could get the time off from their busy schedules) and we started talking about The Bay Area, my home for many years. I relished knowing that they would be having a wonderful time at places that I loved. They had no wedding party so the small table behind me was perfect to hold Nasrin's bouquet while she and Jamil held hands.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They lit a candle in memory of those who had passed on and wrote beautiful words themselves to honor these loved ones: '<i>Although death has separated us physically, faith
and love has bound us eternally. Though we cannot see you, we know that
you are here. Though we cannot touch you, we feel the warmth of your
smile as we begin this new chapter in our lives. Today we pause to
reflect upon those who have shaped our character, and molded our spirit and
touched our hearts. (PAUSE)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>May the lighting of this candle be a reminder of the
memories we have shared and a representation of the everlasting impact that you
have made upon our lives.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>We love you and miss you more than words can
say.' </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I got to offer the poem <b>'Undying Love' by Rabrindranath Tagore</b> as part of their ceremony. You'll want to look this one up. It's really lovely! They brought it to my attention and it has special meaning for them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Their vows, too, are among the ones I love best: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>'I promise to
encourage your compassion,</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Because that is what
makes you unique and wonderful.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I promise to nurture
your dreams,<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Because through them
your soul shines.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I promise to help
shoulder our challenges,<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>For there is nothing
we cannot face if we stand together.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I promise to be your
partner in all things,<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Not possessing you, <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>but working with you
as part of the whole.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Lastly, I promise to
you perfect love and perfect trust,<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>For one lifetime with
you could never be enough.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>This is my sacred vow
to you, my equal in all things.'</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Al4_q-hpmuw/U2kbXyc8HeI/AAAAAAAAJEM/OuCX2fmIucQ/s1600/NJ-36+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Al4_q-hpmuw/U2kbXyc8HeI/AAAAAAAAJEM/OuCX2fmIucQ/s1600/NJ-36+copy.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Theirs was a small intimate wedding attended only by family and very close friends. It suited them well and this setting at The Fearrington is, in my opinion, the most romantic, nestled among covered trellises profuse with vines.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Before Jamil and Nasrin exchanged rings, we did a 'Ring Warming Ceremony' in which we pass the rings through everyone's hands first so that they can offer a silent blessing, hope or prayer for Nasrin and Jamil and their new life together. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1aymwTQ4W0A/U2kbYF-l72I/AAAAAAAAJEQ/DJ19gaRZIS4/s1600/NJ-45+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1aymwTQ4W0A/U2kbYF-l72I/AAAAAAAAJEQ/DJ19gaRZIS4/s1600/NJ-45+copy.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Then with great joy I pronounced them husband and wife and offered this blessing upon their marriage, '<i>May the love which has brought you together continue to grow and
enrich your lives, bringing peace and inspiration to each of you and to those
who know you. May you meet with courage
the problems which arise to challenge you; may you meet with strength the
troubles that beset you. Jamil and
Nasrin, may your marriage be one of
ever-growing depth and meaning, understanding and love which you give to one
another in the life you share. May you
find far more in life than either would have found alone. May you find tolerance for the prejudices,
reverence for the beauties and respect for the truths you will encounter as you
go forward together.'</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Fd8vKe7chw/U2kbbreWrYI/AAAAAAAAJEk/2y9Hd9Tg6jA/s1600/NJ-46a+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Fd8vKe7chw/U2kbbreWrYI/AAAAAAAAJEk/2y9Hd9Tg6jA/s1600/NJ-46a+copy.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And I invited them to share their first kiss as husband and wife. They, and their families, were a delight in my life. They are a thoughtful, considerate, grounded and very loving couple. Tender and respectful with each other, cherishing the blessing of finding one another. I wish them all the happiness in the world.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IuJ1JLKBJE0/U2kbcSr4RqI/AAAAAAAAJEw/e7Z9y8LyQ4c/s1600/NJ-51+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IuJ1JLKBJE0/U2kbcSr4RqI/AAAAAAAAJEw/e7Z9y8LyQ4c/s1600/NJ-51+copy.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I got a lovely note from Jamil with these pictures in which he said, '<span style="background-color: white;"><i>Thank you so much for such a wonderful ceremony. It was exactly what we wanted and we couldn't have asked for more.' </i> Music for my ears and my heart!</span></span><br />
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<br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-63739168717197685122014-04-17T09:11:00.000-04:002014-04-17T11:56:54.509-04:00Shawn and Lindsay Marry Amid Great Joy at Prestonwood Country Club<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1JMvfm4sLRw/U0_44z4DsvI/AAAAAAAAJBc/fYBWbHV1xu4/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1JMvfm4sLRw/U0_44z4DsvI/AAAAAAAAJBc/fYBWbHV1xu4/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+ceremony.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This Fall it was a real joy to marry Lindsay and Shawn. They had a fabulous time and so did everyone else - all of us delighted for them. They had guests that came from from the East Coast, the
West Coast, The North, Canada, even Ireland to share their wedding day with them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And just think. It all started when Autumn, Lindsay’s sister, who really loves pizza, especially, Checker’s pizza, went there with Lindsay. And it was there that she met Shawn. And that, as the expression goes, 'is all she wrote.' Lindsay and Shawn had their wedding at <b>Prestonwood Country Club</b>, a spacious and elegant setting perfect. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5ppI8Sy314/U0_4478CzNI/AAAAAAAAJBY/bjncaEktm6w/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+ceremony+beginning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5ppI8Sy314/U0_4478CzNI/AAAAAAAAJBY/bjncaEktm6w/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+ceremony+beginning.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b05_9u6GAGU/U0_458lA3lI/AAAAAAAAJB0/XGoEB3whP8Q/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+long+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b05_9u6GAGU/U0_458lA3lI/AAAAAAAAJB0/XGoEB3whP8Q/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+long+view.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And they had these excellent professionals and just great people helping make their day perfect: </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.darablakeley.com/">Dara Blakeley of Dara Blakeley Photography</a></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> took these wonderful photographs, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.sallyoakley.com/">Sally Oakley</a> </b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">was their wedding planner and</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://bunndjcompany.com/">Randy Bennett from Joe Bunn DJ Company</a></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> did both their ceremony and reception music and <b><a href="http://www.wateredgardenflorist.com/">Watered Garden</a></b> did their amazing floral arrangements. </span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ipdUY1Fy85g/U0_45szxb7I/AAAAAAAAJB4/dQ_nMiBxtKQ/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+kiss+at+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ipdUY1Fy85g/U0_45szxb7I/AAAAAAAAJB4/dQ_nMiBxtKQ/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+kiss+at+ceremony.jpg" height="400" width="292" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In their ceremony I asked each of them (of course, with the words 'wife' and 'husband'):</span> <i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">'The person who stands by your side is about to become your spouse. They will look to you for gentleness, for support, for understanding, for encouragement, and for protection. You must never take them for granted, but be continually sensitive to their needs. Your life and love will be their greatest source of joy. So I ask you, will you have this person to be your lawfully wedded spouse? Will you love and cherish them? Will you always uphold her and encourage them? Will you be loyal to them, and true? Will you honor them all their days, and be respectful of them, and will you promise to always bestow upon them your heart’s deepest devotion?' </i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">And of course they said, 'Yes'.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GgKz8Zi5Ej0/U0_46jaJ-nI/AAAAAAAAJCE/Mu0aOF6cVJ4/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+recessional.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GgKz8Zi5Ej0/U0_46jaJ-nI/AAAAAAAAJCE/Mu0aOF6cVJ4/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+recessional.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They wanted all their guests to know that their love is unwavering and everlasting.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-73uY_mYoe_w/U0_47nWrmuI/AAAAAAAAJCY/TjODlr1SZX4/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,,+outside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-73uY_mYoe_w/U0_47nWrmuI/AAAAAAAAJCY/TjODlr1SZX4/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,,+outside.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> And very playful!</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hui6C9xuwyk/U0_47HbSIYI/AAAAAAAAJCI/K_RL8KVqxYQ/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+veil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hui6C9xuwyk/U0_47HbSIYI/AAAAAAAAJCI/K_RL8KVqxYQ/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+veil.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;">They told me that 'they are so grateful and appreciative of each other for the unconditional
love that they give each other. They are grateful for the support that they provide
to each other through the good times and the hard times.' It is the good times that buoy us up and it is the hard times that refine us and define us, and like jewels, help us shine. This couple has the glow that comes from a mature seasoned love and I am so delighted for them.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uN-RfIv33Qc/U0_47SAquOI/AAAAAAAAJCk/b3BJ7W0vbNw/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+wave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uN-RfIv33Qc/U0_47SAquOI/AAAAAAAAJCk/b3BJ7W0vbNw/s1600/Shawn+and+Lindsay,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Dara+Blakeley+Photographer,+wave.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I received this lovely note from Lindsay after their ceremony: <i>'<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Hi Robin, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Thank you so much for a wonderful ceremony. Everyone has been talking about how much they LOVED you and how special you made the ceremony. THANK YOU. ...</span></i></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i> It was so wonderful to work with you. You made it such a wonderful and delightful ceremony. We couldn't have asked for anything better. Thank you :)' </i>And I thank them, too, and send them both many many blessings and know that they will have a</span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> love that continues to deepen through all their years. </span></span><br />
<br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-21090170509621292842014-04-15T11:05:00.002-04:002014-04-15T11:05:39.758-04:00Will and Ashley Marry in a Joyful Ceremony at Prestonwood Country Club<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fne_UXobsPE/UqEuhHdEdpI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/8A9Qyv3d1Mg/s1600/Will+and+Ashley,+Prestonwood+CC,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,++Jessica+Arden+Photographer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fne_UXobsPE/UqEuhHdEdpI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/8A9Qyv3d1Mg/s320/Will+and+Ashley,+Prestonwood+CC,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,++Jessica+Arden+Photographer.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Early last fall I had the pleasure of marrying Will and Ashley at <b><a href="http://www.prestonwoodcc.org/">Prestonwood Country Club</a> </b>in Cary.<b> </b>It was a treat to get to know them over the year we planned their ceremony. They are both easy going fun loving people so had a lot of nervous anticipation for their elegant ceremony. But it went off without a hitch, or with a hitch, pun intended, and everyone loved seeing them thoroughly enjoy their ceremony. And the professionals that helped their day go so smoothly were excellent. <b><a href="http://www.adamsandevents.com/">Tracy Adams of Adams and Events</a></b> was stellar as always, <a href="http://www.jessica-arden.com/"><b>Jessica Arden</b> <b>of Jessica Arden Photography</b></a> was their fabulous photographer, and <b><a href="http://www.wateredgardenflorist.com/">Watered Garden</a></b> created their gorgeous bouquets.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qfWQtgYk4ZA/UqEuitVYoYI/AAAAAAAAEtY/gAFu_kg4cIA/s1600/Will+and+Ashley+at+Prestonwwod+CC,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Jessica+Arden+Photographer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qfWQtgYk4ZA/UqEuitVYoYI/AAAAAAAAEtY/gAFu_kg4cIA/s320/Will+and+Ashley+at+Prestonwwod+CC,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Jessica+Arden+Photographer.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="BodyA" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is some of what we said in their ceremony to honor their love: <i> 'They feel so blessed to
have found each other. They knew
immediately that in each other, they had found someone special, someone to
share all of life’s adventures, large and small. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="BodyA">
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="BodyA">
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They can envision nothing finer than sharing all that is to come
– travels, having and raising children, Celebrating holidays with you, their
family and friends, supporting each other in career advances, laughing a lot,
crying together when times are rough , and
growing old together, sitting on rocking chairs at the beach or in the
mountains. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="BodyA" style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today they celebrate with
you how blessed they feel to have found each other, how grateful they are that
their love is strong and keeps growing.'</span></i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rUhwcxvvKFQ/UqEuOW9hF0I/AAAAAAAAEtI/b9VVxkAw35k/s1600/Will+and+Ashley,+Prestonwood+CC,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Jessica+Arden+photographer+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rUhwcxvvKFQ/UqEuOW9hF0I/AAAAAAAAEtI/b9VVxkAw35k/s320/Will+and+Ashley,+Prestonwood+CC,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Jessica+Arden+photographer+(2).jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Will surprised Ashley and proposed at The
Fearrington House and she said, ‘Yes’, they were honoring the strong foundation
of love and friendship they had built. <span style="font-size: small;">They are best friends, respecting each other’s unique perspectives and
rhythms, able to talk about anything and find understanding and
acceptance. Ashley loving Will’s cheesy
jokes, and Will loving Ashley’s cooking. And they were surrounded by their family and friends who also love Will's cheesy jokes and Ashley's style and who danced all evening helped by a great </span><b><a href="http://www.islandsound.net/">DJ from Island Sound.</a> </b><span style="font-size: small;">They also did the video for them. And Island Sound is also always great.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oUe0-7gQM7U/U01I3KjqDfI/AAAAAAAAI_k/fyF3sY_nlu4/s1600/Will+and+Ashley,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Jessica+Arden+Photography,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oUe0-7gQM7U/U01I3KjqDfI/AAAAAAAAI_k/fyF3sY_nlu4/s1600/Will+and+Ashley,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Jessica+Arden+Photography,+Prestonwood+Country+Club,+after.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I got a wonderful note from Ashley when they got back from their honeymoon,<i> 'Thank you for being a part of our special day. We are so happy that we were able to work with you! You truly made our day and ceremony unforgettable. Our trip was wonderful and it has been amazing being married!' </i>I'm so happy for them and I imagine, these almost eight months later, they are still delighted being married. I love being married after 15 years with my husband. It makes what I do even more joyful.</span>Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-38470683488608339892014-04-11T12:02:00.003-04:002014-04-11T12:11:58.106-04:00Kristen and Brandon and Their Kids Celebrate at Beltline Station in Durham<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fq6iv5O9gFY/U0gJLa9UulI/AAAAAAAAI80/-fp3DO43_Qo/s1600/Brandon+an+dKristen+Beltline+Station,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fq6iv5O9gFY/U0gJLa9UulI/AAAAAAAAI80/-fp3DO43_Qo/s1600/Brandon+an+dKristen+Beltline+Station,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,.jpeg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I took a winter hibernation break from writing about ceremonies to ensure that I was fresh for couples in the new year. Then I realized that there were some 2013 weddings yet to honor. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brandon and Kristen were a joy to marry. Not only are they dedicated to each other, they are equally dedicated to all the children in their loving combined family. Thank you to Heather Swanner of <b><a href="http://www.heatherswannerphotography.com/">Heather Swanner Photography</a></b> for letting me use her fabulous pictures. And a special thank you to <b><a href="http://www.premierpartyplanners.com/">Nicole Conder of Premier Party Planners</a></b> for all her assistance in making their day special.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1mUq7XtGHbQ/U0gJMEl0L7I/AAAAAAAAI9E/t3a_o5t3F_4/s1600/Brandon+and+Kristen,+Beltline+Station,+Reverend+Robin+Renteria,+family.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1mUq7XtGHbQ/U0gJMEl0L7I/AAAAAAAAI9E/t3a_o5t3F_4/s1600/Brandon+and+Kristen,+Beltline+Station,+Reverend+Robin+Renteria,+family.jpeg" height="273" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And the <b><a href="http://www.beltlinestation.com/wedding">Belt Line Station</a></b> in downtown Durham was a perfect place for them to celebrate their marriage. They delighted that we were here in this old train
station for their wedding. Beltline
Station was the station for the Lynchberg, VA to Durham NC run. Brandon is from NC and Kristen is from VA, making this an
auspicious place for their joining together in marriage.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d2yubup0DlU/U0gJLS-rrXI/AAAAAAAAI84/X0ulwiQA4dU/s1600/Brandon+and+Kristen,+Beltline+Station,+Reverend+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography,+dance.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d2yubup0DlU/U0gJLS-rrXI/AAAAAAAAI84/X0ulwiQA4dU/s1600/Brandon+and+Kristen,+Beltline+Station,+Reverend+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography,+dance.jpeg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a joy to tell their family and friends how much they love each other. In the ceremony I had the pleasure of saying: '<i><span style="background-color: white;">Kristen was first attracted to
Brandon’s gentle spirit. She loves his calm and patience, especially with their
kids! He is very funny, witty, musically talented and very smart. Brandon loves how Kristen is so easy being
herself as well as</span> how kind, smart, and
understanding she is. They share the
same sense of humor and make each other laugh constantly.</i></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A poet writes that love at its best is
friendship caught fire. Kristen and
Brandon met under difficult circumstances and supported each other as friends
during the hardest of times. Their
friendship strengthened and deepened.
They became best friends and fell in love. They are still best friends, still in love,
encouraging each other to go for their dreams, supporting each other at all
times.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><i>Together with their children they have created a
life they cherish. Each person able to
be themselves fully, finding a partner in crime for all of life’s adventures, trusting
each other with their hearts, looking forward to all of the steps of each child
learning who they are in the world of adulthood, grateful each day for the love
they share.' </i></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CPPek3Cg4EI/U0gJQTV-tqI/AAAAAAAAI90/_dELwuumGuo/s1600/Kristen+and+Brandon+kiss,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CPPek3Cg4EI/U0gJQTV-tqI/AAAAAAAAI90/_dELwuumGuo/s1600/Kristen+and+Brandon+kiss,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Their ceremony was filled with family love. After Kristen's father walked her down the aisle, I asked him: </span><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">'The loving relationship
between a parent and their child, no matter how old the child is, is cherished
like no other. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the love is interwoven
protection, guidance, support and caring.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So I ask Kristen’s father, as he escorts her down this aisle on her
wedding day:</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Who presents this woman to
be married to this man?</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>(He responds: Her mother and I do.) Then I asked their combined kids: 'As Kristen begins this new
journey with Brandon, she wants to also acknowledge her profound love for all
five of their children.<span style="color: #c0504d;"> </span>Her life could not have reached this
day of such joy without these five additional loved ones who have helped to
make her into the person she is. So I
ask Carter, Hayden, Jack, Ali and Jake.<span style="color: red;"> </span>Who gives this woman to be
married to this man? (All five children say, we do.”)'</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdRsuJcdt8U/U0gTG4nLoFI/AAAAAAAAI-4/HslVM_6xAjM/s1600/Kristen+and+Barndon+singers,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdRsuJcdt8U/U0gTG4nLoFI/AAAAAAAAI-4/HslVM_6xAjM/s1600/Kristen+and+Barndon+singers,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Their daughters Ali and Hayden sang for their ceremony. What a treat!</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TmRNnYVvOig/U0gNlrRP84I/AAAAAAAAI-I/ZXQmHh5RlJc/s1600/Kristen+and+Brandon,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TmRNnYVvOig/U0gNlrRP84I/AAAAAAAAI-I/ZXQmHh5RlJc/s1600/Kristen+and+Brandon,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kristen’s ring has special
significance, doubly powerful on their wedding day.
The ring that Brandon placed on Kristen’s finger is her
grandmother’s anniversary band that Kristen received when her grandmother passed away. Their wedding day was also her grandmother’s birthday!</span><span style="color: red; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eZMRi51GJrA/U0gTNkQ5BeI/AAAAAAAAI_I/t7rwnUz5giw/s1600/Kristen+and+Barndon+train+tracks,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eZMRi51GJrA/U0gTNkQ5BeI/AAAAAAAAI_I/t7rwnUz5giw/s1600/Kristen+and+Barndon+train+tracks,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much play was had after the ceremony, too. The architectural highlights of this venue make it a unique, funky, and extraordinary space with lots of opportunities for fun.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQE104-XvPY/U0gJL_ykyvI/AAAAAAAAI9A/lStXws0eBoE/s1600/Brandon+and+Kristen,+Beltline+Station,+Reverend+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography,+sparklers.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQE104-XvPY/U0gJL_ykyvI/AAAAAAAAI9A/lStXws0eBoE/s1600/Brandon+and+Kristen,+Beltline+Station,+Reverend+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography,+sparklers.jpeg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We said the following in their ceremony and it really fits them: '<i>Kristen and Brandon have found in one another
someone who cares deeply about honesty, integrity, loyalty, kindness and
caring. These values nurture and inform
their love, and they guide all aspects of their lives.'</i></span><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-olT27xuZCsE/U0gTEqSfYMI/AAAAAAAAI-w/dkMFlHrO79E/s1600/Kristen+and+Barndon+after2,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-olT27xuZCsE/U0gTEqSfYMI/AAAAAAAAI-w/dkMFlHrO79E/s1600/Kristen+and+Barndon+after2,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Heather+Swanner+Photography.jpeg" height="640" width="425" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wish them all the joy in the world and I have no doubts they are loving being married and being an official family. There were lots of other professionals who made their day special: <b><a href="http://www.beltlinestation.com/">Beltline Station</a> </b>created all their gorgeous bouquets. <b> <a href="http://simplycakesnc.com/">Simply Cakes</a> </b>made their cupcakes<b> and <a href="http://www.trianglecatering.com/wedding-venues-raleigh-durham">Triangle Catering - Belt Line</a> </b>handled their catering<b>, </b>their<b> </b>DJ was<b> <a href="http://www.lennyfritts.com/index.cfm?id=12">Garrett Lamm of Touch of Class DJs.</a> </b>Many blessings to Brandon, Kristen and their kids, and many thanks to all the other professionals for whom their wedding was a labor of love.</span></div>
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<br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-87192900808486027862013-12-04T10:27:00.000-05:002013-12-04T10:27:37.301-05:00Laurie and Ricky Wed at the Doubletree Hotel In Raleigh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QQQ9HLutwY/Up9EuLY9dPI/AAAAAAAAEsY/q-gg2_EPJKU/s1600/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+after.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QQQ9HLutwY/Up9EuLY9dPI/AAAAAAAAEsY/q-gg2_EPJKU/s400/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+after.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Laurie and Ricky and their daughter Autumn were a joy. This was a long anticipated celebration of their being a family as well as their wedding. They almost lost their daughter to illness and the close group of friends who had stood by them during this time were their wedding party. Laurie and Ricky had been together for three years and known each other for seven or eight years. They had stood by each other through trials and troubles and now all that was over, and it was time to celebrate. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-alMxF1_1uEo/Up9E9f8i81I/AAAAAAAAEs4/3xp6_eiSZi4/s1600/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+wedding+party.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-alMxF1_1uEo/Up9E9f8i81I/AAAAAAAAEs4/3xp6_eiSZi4/s640/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+wedding+party.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The Doubletree Hotel in Raleigh</b> was the perfect place for their small intimate wedding where all the well loved young children could run around a little and still be contained. Laurie loves that Ricky know how to make her laugh, and their mutual sense of humor was a delight to see as they flowed with the unexpected happenings of having children in the ceremony can bring.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4K2rIbmwrII/Up9E5kCRuII/AAAAAAAAEsw/pHj4R5C0_Xs/s1600/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+with+Autumn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4K2rIbmwrII/Up9E5kCRuII/AAAAAAAAEsw/pHj4R5C0_Xs/s400/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+with+Autumn.JPG" width="272" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Autumn is a cutie and much loved. To honor their commitment to her and to their family, they had a sand ceremony, and helped her with the pouring of her sand.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DJoOtm3RkL4/Up9E3v1JzAI/AAAAAAAAEso/N8gk5U71wVk/s1600/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+just+the+two.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DJoOtm3RkL4/Up9E3v1JzAI/AAAAAAAAEso/N8gk5U71wVk/s400/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+just+the+two.JPG" width="218" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We also honored their parents in the ceremony and we had a moment of silence for Ricky's father and their grandparents who were there in spirit and in love. This was a family affair in so many ways. Ricky's mother, Deb, helped to make the bouquets and boutonnieres, and Marissa Mezzacappa made the cupcakes and cake.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u7XqmrIWS_k/Up9Ex2Io5kI/AAAAAAAAEsg/_wrLSpl9pds/s1600/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+vertical.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u7XqmrIWS_k/Up9Ex2Io5kI/AAAAAAAAEsg/_wrLSpl9pds/s400/Ricky+and+Laurie,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+vertical.JPG" width="275" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to Dee Shaupe and her husband for these lovely photographs. </span><br />
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<br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-6120959855186878772013-11-14T11:34:00.000-05:002013-11-14T11:34:15.266-05:00Michelle and Don Have a Glorious Sunny Wedding at Crenshaw Hall<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vsLUWzoeejc/UoTmkSYTC9I/AAAAAAAAErQ/4PHHxYYjXYg/s1600/Don+and+Michelle,+Crenshaw+Hall,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+RGB+Insight+Photography,+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vsLUWzoeejc/UoTmkSYTC9I/AAAAAAAAErQ/4PHHxYYjXYg/s400/Don+and+Michelle,+Crenshaw+Hall,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+RGB+Insight+Photography,+after.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It was so much fun marrying Michelle and Don! Don liked to joke and being in formal attire and standing up in front of everyone was not how he felt most relaxed. He and Michelle wanted a simple, elegant ceremony with nothing fancy. We were so blessed to have such a gorgeous day in mid-October. I'm glad because it was a day Don and Michelle had looked forward to for a long time. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Michelle and Don worked together at the same place, then Don went into the army, and afterward they worked together, too. They have known each other for seven years.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I was so pleased that after the ceremony Don told me that he actually had a good time. </span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you to Gil and Christy Rosado of <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/RGB-Insight-Photography/354371807943134">RGB Photography</a></b> for these wonderful photos. </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.historic-crenshawhall.com/">Crenshaw Hall</a></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and Christy, their coordinator there, were wonderful to work with, too.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TV7WG3M6Qys/UoTm2BkJRAI/AAAAAAAAErY/3NItn1jCCaU/s1600/Don+and+Michelle,+Crenshaw+Hall,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+RGB+Insight+Photography,+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TV7WG3M6Qys/UoTm2BkJRAI/AAAAAAAAErY/3NItn1jCCaU/s400/Don+and+Michelle,+Crenshaw+Hall,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+RGB+Insight+Photography,+ceremony.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bradley Junell or </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.raleigheventdj.com/">Raleigh Event DJ</a></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> was their DJ for the ceremony, too. I love working with Brad. His work is always perfect, he always knows the plan, and he has backups if you need them.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> One especially sweet touch that Don and Michelle had was their music. They had the DJ play '<i>What a Wonderful World</i>' for the grandmothers to enter, '<i>Here Comes the Sun</i>' for the mothers to enter, '<i>A</i> <i>Thousand Years</i>' for the wedding party, and "<i>Make you Feel My Love</i>' for Michelle to enter. And '<i>Good Life'</i> by One Republic, and '<i>Don't Stop Believing</i>' by Vitamin String Quartet for the recessional. Each piece seemed especially appropriate, fun, and considered.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The music set the tone and their wedding was a joy throughout. And Michelle told me later that I was right when I said that it would go really fast.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h_voAEqI7wc/UoTm7ItwjvI/AAAAAAAAEro/-GHWFmJ8hbo/s1600/Don+and+Michelle,+Crenshaw+Hall,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+RGB+Insight+Photography,+wedding+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h_voAEqI7wc/UoTm7ItwjvI/AAAAAAAAEro/-GHWFmJ8hbo/s400/Don+and+Michelle,+Crenshaw+Hall,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+RGB+Insight+Photography,+wedding+party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Their florist was James May at the Harris Teeter in Wake Forest. I've seen him get lovely reviews from other brides, and I'm so glad he is so good.. It was an especially lovely wedding, to which I give all the credit to the Michelle and Don. They are delightful in their exuberance and let themselves have a really good time! I wish them both a lifetime of happiness!</span>Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-43297643434462584772013-11-13T13:40:00.000-05:002013-11-13T17:30:15.170-05:00Kris and Sarah Marry in a Beautiful Outdoor Ceremony at Home with Just Family Attending<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f9yT28pIhIE/UoOv-FXgYpI/AAAAAAAAEpo/402gjnY8y5s/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+after+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f9yT28pIhIE/UoOv-FXgYpI/AAAAAAAAEpo/402gjnY8y5s/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+after+closeup.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a beautiful early Fall day when I arrived at Kris's and Sarah's home to officiate their intimate family wedding. They wanted a unique ceremony, centered on their love and had contacted me partly because they liked the Spiritual Ceremony that I have on my website. Both sets of parents were laid back and just wanted to be there. And this, with the inclusion of a few more family members, is what they created.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to Holly Czuba of <b><a href="http://www.hollyczuba.com/">Holly Czuba Photography</a></b> for her wonderful photographs. This shot of Kris watching Sarah process around the corner of the house was a treat. She was radiant and his face was filled with love for her. She had been preceded by his two nieces who were the flower girls. At 3 and 5 years of age they seemed to have that slight bewilderment of not quite knowing what to do, and everyone else loving their spontaneity Sarah's sister, Kate, played the flute for her processional accompanied by a piano recording made by Sarah's mother, Barbara. It was a lovely gift of music.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ppWZJoSgzu0/UoOwCDyeADI/AAAAAAAAEqg/pxxIizRFngM/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,,+processional.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ppWZJoSgzu0/UoOwCDyeADI/AAAAAAAAEqg/pxxIizRFngM/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,,+processional.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kris and Sarah have been friends for 13 years and have been dating for 5 years. She had lived out of the country two years before they dates and then when she moved to Raleigh they began dating. Being married on their deck was a blessing for their home and perfect for them and their love of nature. They cherish the life that they have created together, Sarah loving Kris's patience and thoughtfulness, Kris loving Sarah's way of helping him live more in the moment. Together they encourage each other to grow in heart and spirit. This is a wonderful gift of their love.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-beyPsHThI/UoOwC5S99lI/AAAAAAAAEqw/Nl3r0wUnlRo/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,,+vows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-beyPsHThI/UoOwC5S99lI/AAAAAAAAEqw/Nl3r0wUnlRo/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,,+vows.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They had a Ring Warming as part of their ceremony. In this ritual we pass their rings through the hands of their guests so that each guest can add a silent blessing into the rings before the couple offer their rings to each other. They chose a small mason jar to hold their rings.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RFxt5lEi7KU/UoOwATI10ZI/AAAAAAAAEqE/Ei_knZGvfjU/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RFxt5lEi7KU/UoOwATI10ZI/AAAAAAAAEqE/Ei_knZGvfjU/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+rings.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love this ritual because it also gives the couple a chance to pause and notice the love coming their way from their guests. A wedding goes so quickly and in the pause, they can appreciate the moment for all the joy it holds.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmGAw11rZwk/UoOwDBjB0dI/AAAAAAAAEq4/5jL_jVNmSzU/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,,+ring+warming.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmGAw11rZwk/UoOwDBjB0dI/AAAAAAAAEq4/5jL_jVNmSzU/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,,+ring+warming.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In this wonderful family picture you see our flower girls in purple and the delightful family they all create together.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JuI2XOp0gT8/UoOwA05KIhI/AAAAAAAAEqU/vvcTfwNldGQ/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+everyone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JuI2XOp0gT8/UoOwA05KIhI/AAAAAAAAEqU/vvcTfwNldGQ/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+everyone.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kris and Sarah live in a house that I love. It's called a California Ranch I'm told and it is open with spacious rooms and very clean lines. They held their reception family lunch in their dining room and living room and the family fit just fine.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KwhpiozIy0Q/UoOwAj7mJvI/AAAAAAAAEqI/j5ZyVQ9gmNw/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+reception.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KwhpiozIy0Q/UoOwAj7mJvI/AAAAAAAAEqI/j5ZyVQ9gmNw/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+reception.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Of course, there was dessert! Cupcakes from<b><a href="http://www.bitsybakes.com/"> Bitsy Bakes</a></b>. I'm a fan just by looking at them. As an icing fan, ample icing is a must. And they are decorated so well!</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c1kVE0dpGIs/UoOwByVQZvI/AAAAAAAAEqc/WhqsaX2GSnM/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,,+cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c1kVE0dpGIs/UoOwByVQZvI/AAAAAAAAEqc/WhqsaX2GSnM/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,,+cupcakes.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kris and Sarah have a casual moment by their front door after the ceremony. I love to see them laugh like this. We ended their ceremony with the blessing, 'May you dare to dream dreams not yet dreamt. Play together, laugh together, walk together for a lifetime.'</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PuLI3ivVtcs/UoOv-t9qB4I/AAAAAAAAEpw/2HONI0Yxz3U/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+casual+afater+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PuLI3ivVtcs/UoOv-t9qB4I/AAAAAAAAEpw/2HONI0Yxz3U/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+casual+afater+2.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pLVSJaUG4LM/UoOv-3QKdPI/AAAAAAAAEp0/9IjCQC9rTY0/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+casual+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pLVSJaUG4LM/UoOv-3QKdPI/AAAAAAAAEp0/9IjCQC9rTY0/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+casual+after.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to <b><a href="http://www.danielsflorist.com/">Daniel's Florist</a></b> for their vibrant fall flowers which were perfect as a contrast to all the green of nature, and thanks to <b><a href="http://www.irregardless.com/">Irregardless Cafe</a></b> who catered their wedding lunch. I come across their name often and always hear good things about them.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YMmu3kP-S8U/UoOwCXe25PI/AAAAAAAAEqk/azh7LqOlDq0/s1600/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+the+couple+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YMmu3kP-S8U/UoOwCXe25PI/AAAAAAAAEqk/azh7LqOlDq0/s400/Kris+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Holly+Czuba+Photography,+the+couple+after.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope Sarah's and Kris's lives are filled with joy. It was a pleasure being a part of their lives for even this short time. Sarah emailed her thanks with, <i>'</i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Thank you so much for officiating our ceremony. It was exactly as we'd imagined it to be!' </i>I love hearing that, and I'm delighted that I could help make it happen. I send the much love.</span></span><br />
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<br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-44535954090976124822013-11-08T09:22:00.000-05:002013-11-08T09:22:37.072-05:00Pete and Alyssa have a Sweet Wedding Ceremony in J. C. Raulston Arboretum's White Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Alyssa is an art teacher and has a lovely personal style and flair. She signs her emails now:, '</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #336666;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">artist, art teacher, wife of pete, do-gooder, day-dreamer'. </span><span style="font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span></em></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I thoroughly enjoyed seeing that come to life in her and Pete's wedding. Pete and Alyssa met in college but didn't know each other then. Then a couple of years after she graduated they met again at a concert with mutual friends and have now been together almost four years. They cherish that they are good friends, equals, encouraging each other, accepting each other, and respecting each other's kindness, openness, consideration, and commitment to their future. It was a joy to celebrate their deep love for each other. Thank you to Sabrina Duffy of </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Duffy-Photography/249175121772412">Sabrina Duffy Photography</a></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> for these lovely photos!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w7lR8pd_tL8/Unzssn0hGVI/AAAAAAAAEog/SkAwoGFezOE/s1600/Pete+and+Alyssa,+JC+Raulston+Arboretum,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w7lR8pd_tL8/Unzssn0hGVI/AAAAAAAAEog/SkAwoGFezOE/s400/Pete+and+Alyssa,+JC+Raulston+Arboretum,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.ncsu.edu/jcraulstonarboretum/"> The White Garden in J. C. Raulston Arboretum</a></b> is the perfect place for a small wedding with lots of good possibilities for out door photographs. Pete and Alyssa's wedding was the first wedding I had done there that also had their reception in the garden on the rooftop terrace. They and their friends did all the decorations and it was so perfect for the arboretum, simple, joyful, green!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pete and Alyssa chose a classic Celtic Handfasting Ceremony to honor the ties they were creating with each other in their marriage. I tied their hands together, tying another knot with each promise they made to share their laughter and joy, to encourage each other's dreams and aspirations, and to treat each other with respect and kindness. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CaQrmBNIbzY/UnzsuxLvo_I/AAAAAAAAEoo/kYGz6umkkiE/s1600/Pete+and+Alyssa,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Sabria+Duffy+Photographer,+JC+Raulston+Arboretum,+handfasting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CaQrmBNIbzY/UnzsuxLvo_I/AAAAAAAAEoo/kYGz6umkkiE/s400/Pete+and+Alyssa,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Sabria+Duffy+Photographer,+JC+Raulston+Arboretum,+handfasting.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then they exchanged rings as symbols of the ties that had just made and the promises they had given.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Theirs was a tender, sweet ceremony and it fit them perfectly. They are thoughtful considerate people, generous and kind, much loved by everyone there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I got this very special note from them after their ceremony: <i>'<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Thank you again for everything you've done for Pete and I. I know that sounds like such a blanket statement, but please believe me when I say that we were so beyond happy with having you for our day. We are so excited to be married with a wedding we almost didn't think could be so great. It almost makes me emotional to look back and be able to say that we had such a perfect ceremony. You were so wonderful and we're very appreciative.'</span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To give credit to the other wonderful local professionals who made their wedding such a success: <b><a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/">Whole Foods</a></b> in Raleigh did their flowers and their cake, Laura Zeiger at <b><a href="http://www.neomonde.com/">Neomonde Deli</a></b> provided the catering.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wish them many many happy years together. They have begun their marriage in much love surrounded by those who love them. What better beginning can there be.</span>Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-1479837700373343002013-10-30T15:11:00.001-04:002013-10-30T15:11:09.381-04:00Kat and Austin Marry at Pine Lake Pavilion and We Celebrate The Family They Create With Aidan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JPiq66XbN2Q/UnFRgh33NjI/AAAAAAAAEmg/1KndWHTTFhU/s1600/Austin+and+Kat,+Oct+2013,+Pine+Lake+Pavilion,+Lindsay+Laughlin+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JPiq66XbN2Q/UnFRgh33NjI/AAAAAAAAEmg/1KndWHTTFhU/s640/Austin+and+Kat,+Oct+2013,+Pine+Lake+Pavilion,+Lindsay+Laughlin+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+after.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Kat and Austin planned their wedding carefully and well in advance and it was lucky they did so. They got one of the last coveted opportunities to have their wedding at the gorgeous <b><a href="http://www.pinelakepavilion.com/">Pine Lake Pavilion</a></b> which has since closed its doors. Austin and Kat were so much fun to work with. They have much to celebrate and joyfully took the opportunity to do so. They delight in their love and in their son Aidan and everyone at their wedding did so, too. I'm so glad the these wonderful images by photographer Lindsey Laughlin and her husband Todd, of <b><a href="http://www.lindseylaughlinphotography.com/">Lindsey Laughlin Photography</a></b> capture the beauty of the day and of them so well..</span><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u7-H9QuTcQk/UnFRruqtCwI/AAAAAAAAEnQ/iht7OPIeLG4/s1600/Austin+and+Kat,+Oct+2013,+Pine+Lake+Pavilion,+Lindsay+Laughlin+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+wedding+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u7-H9QuTcQk/UnFRruqtCwI/AAAAAAAAEnQ/iht7OPIeLG4/s400/Austin+and+Kat,+Oct+2013,+Pine+Lake+Pavilion,+Lindsay+Laughlin+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+wedding+party.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Who could ask for a lovelier setting. And thank you to our stellar coordinator <b><a href="http://knotyouraverageevents.com/">Jennifer Ball, of Knot Your Average Events</a></b>. As always she is the consummate professional, and fun, too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the beginning of the ceremony we had a gentle breeze accompanied by falling leaves that seemed to be the very heavens celebrating with us. Austin and Kat were high school sweethearts and have grown up much since then. But still cherish that early time and the ten years since then when they were more than boyfriend and girlfriend but there was no word for their unique connection. Their friends termed them penguins, who mate for life, and yet haven't gone through the rituals. The poem, 'I Want To Be Your Personal Penguin' seemed to fit them perfectly and they read it to each other. We all loved it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After we had a ring warming, with each guest holding and blessing their rings on the way to Austin and Kat's hands, adding a silent blessing on their rings, we honored the family they create with Austin, and then</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> had a sand ceremony with sand for Aidan in a plastic container while Kat and Austin had glass containers. (good thinking) Aidan was intrigued. I love it when parents know to make their child's experience no-worries.</span></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-un1sJu6wZLM/UnFRiRLx7GI/AAAAAAAAEmw/59qQ6i40fiU/s1600/Austin+and+Kat,+Oct+2013,+Pine+Lake+Pavilion,+Lindsay+Laughlin+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+sand+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-un1sJu6wZLM/UnFRiRLx7GI/AAAAAAAAEmw/59qQ6i40fiU/s400/Austin+and+Kat,+Oct+2013,+Pine+Lake+Pavilion,+Lindsay+Laughlin+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+sand+ceremony.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then I joyfully pronounced them married and offered a blessing upon their marriage. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-85vXBDiKxnU/UnFRn3ZDFhI/AAAAAAAAEnI/Y_bYa22JZfs/s1600/Austin+and+Kat,+Oct+2013,+Pine+Lake+Pavilion,+Lindsay+Laughlin+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+w+Aidan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-85vXBDiKxnU/UnFRn3ZDFhI/AAAAAAAAEnI/Y_bYa22JZfs/s400/Austin+and+Kat,+Oct+2013,+Pine+Lake+Pavilion,+Lindsay+Laughlin+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+w+Aidan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Their florists were Layli Hibbard and Kristal Cloer of <b><a href="http://www.farmandfiligree.com/">Farm & Filigree</a></b>. The rich fall colors were vibrant against the expansive green lawn. In our blessing we wished for them love - a love that brings out the best in them as they bring out the best in each other. And we wished for them joy, a joy that makes them laugh out loud. A joy that lights their eyes and fills their souls - a joy that shouts to the world of their happiness with each other. All this and more we wished for them on all the days of their marriage. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Austin and Kat are sweet genuine, generous, loving people. I loved sharing this most important day with them and wish for them many many joyful years of loving each other and Aidan.</span><br />
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<br />Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-68608531009974169102013-10-22T16:28:00.000-04:002013-10-22T16:28:28.673-04:00Kal and Emily Have an Elegant Ceremony at The Umstead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x4KsbMR1wbA/UmbQ8ykpIQI/AAAAAAAAElU/aAOglMFrQpI/s1600/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography,++Rev+Robin+Renteria,+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x4KsbMR1wbA/UmbQ8ykpIQI/AAAAAAAAElU/aAOglMFrQpI/s400/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography,++Rev+Robin+Renteria,+after.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I loved getting to know Kal and Emily. They have been together more than 6 years, (I think it's up to 7 by now). They met when he was her RA her freshman year at UNC. They started out as friends and this is a wonderful foundation on which to build a marriage. They have so much in common and also each have a twinkle in their eyes for all the ways they are different. There is much to celebrate in their ceremony. One thing too is the touch of class that is apparent in their wedding. A special thanks to <b><a href="http://blueboxweddings.com/">Blue Box Photography</a></b> for these great photos!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TxR0hn3U1tk/UmbQ8BM_HAI/AAAAAAAAElM/tGJaymZ9zes/s1600/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+processional.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TxR0hn3U1tk/UmbQ8BM_HAI/AAAAAAAAElM/tGJaymZ9zes/s400/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+processional.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gotta love the bow tie! In their opening words I said, '<i>And so, building on over six years of learning, loving and creating, Kal and Emily are here today to take their relationship a step higher and to strengthen their bond even further as they join together in marriage.'</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o3VvcaNFhHo/UmbQ9YrYtdI/AAAAAAAAElg/V8MES6ROc8w/s1600/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o3VvcaNFhHo/UmbQ9YrYtdI/AAAAAAAAElg/V8MES6ROc8w/s400/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+rings.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Emily is from Venezuela and she and Kal chose 'Sonnet XII' by Pablo Neruda for part of their ceremony. It was perfect for them. Part of their vows say, <i>'I take you as my partner, loving and respecting the amazing person that you are, and the person you will become.' </i>These words, too, seem to fit them seamlessly.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X1EeaqFG6mA/UmbQ8KzrY6I/AAAAAAAAElI/ZkNa05nGqdI/s1600/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+rings2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X1EeaqFG6mA/UmbQ8KzrY6I/AAAAAAAAElI/ZkNa05nGqdI/s400/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+rings2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As they exchanged rings, the said, '<i>Accept this ring as a symbol of my everlasting love and devotion for all the years ahead.'</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uk8sSCROvMc/UmbROunkK4I/AAAAAAAAEls/BKwOVFPuMCY/s1600/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uk8sSCROvMc/UmbROunkK4I/AAAAAAAAEls/BKwOVFPuMCY/s400/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I pronounced them married with these words, <i>'My the joy of love, the grace of God, and strength of spirit be at the heart of the life you share together.' </i></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s-BYDyV01i0/UmbRPVnKjTI/AAAAAAAAEl0/OuEzutnoNb8/s1600/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Blue+Box+Photography,+kiss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s-BYDyV01i0/UmbRPVnKjTI/AAAAAAAAEl0/OuEzutnoNb8/s400/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Blue+Box+Photography,+kiss.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel so blessed to have such wonderful couples, like Kal and Emily, in my life. Couples with a genuine desire to grow in love, understanding and joy all their lives. And from them I find hope for the planet, which will thrive based upon our commitment to loving relationships in all aspects of our lives.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-za6KFgzw1YM/UmbSkoOnU4I/AAAAAAAAEl8/UovWo7qPNVg/s1600/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+long+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-za6KFgzw1YM/UmbSkoOnU4I/AAAAAAAAEl8/UovWo7qPNVg/s400/Kal+and+Emily,+The+Umstead,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+long+view.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.theumstead.com/">The Umstead Hotel and Spa</a></b> is a lovely outdoor venue and their staff is always very efficient and professional. Kal and Emily's flowers were stunning, too. They were provided by <b><a href="http://www.brides-and-bouquets.com/">Brides and Bouquets</a> </b>in Cary. Their musicians were from <b><a href="http://ariosostrings.com/">Arioso Strings</a></b>, who are always flawless, too,</span>Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-222455656865660072013-10-22T15:22:00.001-04:002013-10-22T15:22:45.850-04:00Nick and Beth Marry on a Stormy Saturday at The Hudson Manor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OygLfA6sjbo/UmbKUK_oDrI/AAAAAAAAEko/uf6dnsunltk/s1600/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OygLfA6sjbo/UmbKUK_oDrI/AAAAAAAAEko/uf6dnsunltk/s400/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the first time I officiated a ceremony at <b><a href="http://www.thehudsonmanor.com/">Hudson Manor</a></b>. It's really too far from my home but Nick and Beth had attended a ceremony of their friends that I have officiated and asked me to be a part of their wedding and they're such delightful people, I couldn't refuse. On a questionnaire they tested 97% compatible and that shone all through the day. We all watched with dismay as a huge story approached from the west and about a half hour before the ceremony is started to pour. Luckily the manor has a lovely covered patio perfect for ceremonies. And blessedly Beth and Nick concentrated on their love for each other and the love that was shown to them by their family and friends.. Thank you to <b><a href="http://blueboxweddings.com/">Blue Box Photography</a></b> for all these wonderful images!</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LL9EFbFiKbM/UmbK3fGwwUI/AAAAAAAAEk4/eRe1Q4FITUA/s1600/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+vows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LL9EFbFiKbM/UmbK3fGwwUI/AAAAAAAAEk4/eRe1Q4FITUA/s400/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+vows.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We all delighted in all the water references during the ceremony and when thunder roared right when I pronounced them married and said, 'Those whom God has joined let no one put asunder.' But it all started, in the ceremony that is, with Beth's lovely tears of joy.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dfw3XlM6fqI/UmbKPA9zAVI/AAAAAAAAEkY/3DL2N1oo8J4/s1600/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dfw3XlM6fqI/UmbKPA9zAVI/AAAAAAAAEkY/3DL2N1oo8J4/s400/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+hands.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They love eating the great meals Beth cooks, playing board games and just lounging on the sofa together. As long as they are together, they're happy. They have found and created a home in each other's heart.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGTkikuQmyI/UmbKQK-ESZI/AAAAAAAAEkc/34nDjzoAIJQ/s1600/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGTkikuQmyI/UmbKQK-ESZI/AAAAAAAAEkc/34nDjzoAIJQ/s400/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+rings.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Nick proposed to Beth on what she calls their 'Best Weekend Ever in New York City.' When they wed, they said, '<i>With this ring I thee wed and join my life to yours. May it remind you that I am with you in spirit wherever you may go.'</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQdtdf-Rees/UmbKvYpBr0I/AAAAAAAAEkw/-5izoqGCVnM/s1600/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+wedding+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQdtdf-Rees/UmbKvYpBr0I/AAAAAAAAEkw/-5izoqGCVnM/s400/Nick+and+Beth,+Hudson+Manor,+Blue+Box+Photography,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+wedding+party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Their reds and blues sparkled against the whites of the manor and the rainy day. <b><a href="http://www.freshaffairs.com/">Fresh Affairs</a></b> was responsible for all these lovely floral arrangements. As a part of their wedding Beth and Nick gave each person a rock and asked them to write a blessing or a wish for them on the rock. They had silver and gold pens with which to write what called to you. It created a lovely and lasting weight of support and love blessing their marriage. I'm glad that mine is a part of the collection. I wish them much joy in the years ahead.</span><br />
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Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5889648745168757280.post-62767019414660478882013-10-22T14:33:00.000-04:002013-10-22T14:33:46.221-04:00Michael and Sara Marry At Brier Creek Country Club on a Lovely September Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g8lpH5fToMU/UmFZ5vDCxZI/AAAAAAAAEjI/kabI07E0VU8/s1600/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="397" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g8lpH5fToMU/UmFZ5vDCxZI/AAAAAAAAEjI/kabI07E0VU8/s400/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+after.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sara and Michael wanted a comfortable, casual, rustic ceremony. They wanted traditional elements for their ceremony, too, so that it would be comfortable and meaningful for their families as well as for them. They succeeded on all counts. Their wedding party was made up of easy going people who complemented their generous quiet nature and were close to them. Sara's uncle from New York, Tom Kightlinger, a professional DJ, was their DJ for both the wedding and the reception, and he did a fabulous job. It was definitely a fun celebration that everyone enjoyed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you to </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.silvercordeventphotography.com/">Sally Siko of Silvercord Event Photography / Creative Imagery Services</a></b> for her superb photographs so you can really how just how wonderful this occasion was.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.briercreekcc.com/"> Brier Creek Country Club</a></b> has a lovely outdoor setting for a wedding which looks over the golf course, and the addition of the yellow daisies created a joyful, playful effect. The drapes looked diaphanous blowing in the breeze which added to the whimsy and charm of the setting as well as offering privacy and showcasing Michael and Sara and their wedding party against white instead of green..</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2G8H8CgIAaY/UmFaVvL-MYI/AAAAAAAAEj4/F03-pMK9Lyg/s1600/Michael+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Brier+Creek+CC,+Sally+Siko+Photographer,+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2G8H8CgIAaY/UmFaVvL-MYI/AAAAAAAAEj4/F03-pMK9Lyg/s640/Michael+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Brier+Creek+CC,+Sally+Siko+Photographer,+ceremony.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Part of their ceremony says, 'Enter your marriage confident in the love and trust you have already created between you.... Keep you love alive with your openness to each other and your enthusiasm for each other." I so believe those words. I'm delighted that they chose them.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_5Y1Lm5X6Dk/UmFaAT0m1AI/AAAAAAAAEjo/k7IkemX1m-8/s1600/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_5Y1Lm5X6Dk/UmFaAT0m1AI/AAAAAAAAEjo/k7IkemX1m-8/s400/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+rings.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sara and Michael chose lovely classic vows: <i>"I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love you and honor you all the days of my life" </i>that seemed to fit them and the clear thoughtfulness and consideration they have for each other.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i5y91NWmXjw/UmFZ7TL_wfI/AAAAAAAAEjQ/pKjRy2CrA2A/s1600/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i5y91NWmXjw/UmFZ7TL_wfI/AAAAAAAAEjQ/pKjRy2CrA2A/s400/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+ceremony.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is with joy that I pronounced them husband and wife, saying then, '<i>May your way be blessed, may wisdom's light shine upon you, and may your journey bring you peace.' </i>And then I invited Michael to kiss his bride.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8sy7j6hyg0w/UmFZ-lm4m-I/AAAAAAAAEjg/UVodqzFKRAs/s1600/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+kiss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8sy7j6hyg0w/UmFZ-lm4m-I/AAAAAAAAEjg/UVodqzFKRAs/s400/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+kiss.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think they had just as much fun with this kiss! I encourage them to practicing their kissing skills all their lives. You can never get enough practice!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5pJBYc2fkUQ/UmFZ8XIhF4I/AAAAAAAAEjY/_Iu93nbku7A/s1600/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+dip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5pJBYc2fkUQ/UmFZ8XIhF4I/AAAAAAAAEjY/_Iu93nbku7A/s400/Michael+and+Sarah,+Sally+Siko+of+Silvercord+Event+Photography,+Creative+Imagery+Services,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+dip.jpg" width="260" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Michael and Sara have a comfortable, playful, vibrant love. I wish them many many years of happiness and joy! </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BOWQOOl78dQ/UmFaXNGqIlI/AAAAAAAAEkA/tLPsKIzn_-A/s1600/Michael+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Brier+Creek+CC,+Sally+Siko+Photographer,+ater+two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BOWQOOl78dQ/UmFaXNGqIlI/AAAAAAAAEkA/tLPsKIzn_-A/s400/Michael+and+Sarah,+Rev+Robin+Renteria,+Brier+Creek+CC,+Sally+Siko+Photographer,+ater+two.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To give credit for their wonderful flowers we laud Jo Lynn Truesdale of <b><a href="http://www.victorianseasons.com/">Victorian Seasons.</a></b></span><br />
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Rev. Robin Renteria, M.Div., PhD. Retiredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14074626892071176811noreply@blogger.com0