A Most Excellent Way

At Jackie and Hayes' wedding in Raleigh last weekend the minister read from I Corinthians 13.

"And now I will show you the most excellent way...Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  Love never fails."

I'm amazed every time I hear these words about perfect Love because it always makes me realize how hard it is for humans to attain and how wonderful it is that we all keep trying.

We have had the pleasure of celebrating several family weddings in the last few months.  Each celebration has been unique and just right for each couple's personalities. 

I loved how Stu described Jackie and Hayes' celebration as a  "beautiful wedding followed by a beautiful reception.  Seeing two kids in love makes for a room full of happy hearts."

So true.

On the way home Dad noted that  "Jackie is a planner and Hayes a connoisseur." 

True again.

The invitations, rehearsal dinner, church ceremony, the wedding party, reception venue and menu, cake, flowers, music - every detail was a perfect reflection of Jackie and Hayes' quiet, sweet and elegant style.

A most excellent way.

Jackie and Hayes relaxed in their favorite neighborhood restaurant on Thursday night before the festivites began.

David and I enjoyed the amazing rehearsal dinner at the Umstead.   The menu and the service were outstanding in every way.  A little bit of Lattimore came out when they served  creme brulee and I felt compelled to sop the brulee with tiny shortbread cookies.   Delicious!

As elegant as the evening was there was plenty of room for comfort and diversity.  It was a chilly rainy night and Dad wanted to wear his Uggs while Judy sported these pretty sparkly shoes. 

I thought this fit well with the theme of Corinthians because Paul did encourage Unity in Diversity.

 

The Kohlers - Judy, John, Dyna and Hanse with long time friend Jimmy at the Umstead for the rehearsal dinner.

The Wilson's provided a wonderful rehearsal dinner which included a harpist.  It was fascinating to see and hear her play such an angelic instrument.  I had never heard Stairway to Heaven played on a Harp but it is a very fitting selection! 

 

Dad and I managed a quick breakfast with some of the Sarazen family while we were in Raleigh.   We sure missed seeing Rachel this trip.

David and I managed a quick breakfast with Will and Will before NC State BEAT Duke on Saturday!

We missed seeing the rest of the Roach family and we missed being with our own boys too.  With a family as big as ours it is really tough to get everyone together at one time.

After marriage vows at Hayes Barton Methodist Church everyone gathered for the  reception. The monogrammed wedding cake was simple and elegant and was just about the best wedding cake I have ever eaten.  Perfection.

The creative menu at the reception included Shrimp and Grits served in a martini glass, Sweet potato biscuits with country ham, and many other Southern style goodies with a contemporary flair.  I didn't get a good picture of the presentation of a wonderful crab salad in a wrap that looked like an ice cream cone.  It was fantastic and the presentation was fun.

David's favorite things were the grilled cheese sandwich sticks dipped in a steaming hot tomato bisque shooter! 

This was a hit and such an elegant way to serve most everyone's favorite down home dish.

Dan, Elizabeth, Amy, Paul and Stu at the reception.   Elizabeth was her Phase I cousin's bridesmaid. 

Penny, Palma, Heidi, Hunter, Stu and Will at the reception.   I couldn't find Jim when this picture was snapped but I think he was somewhere near the grilled cheese!

The Martin family all dressed up with Mom and Dad.   

Hayes' niece and nephew and Jackie's goddaughter added even more sweetness to the wedding party.  They were adorable and did their jobs exceptionally well.

Virginia, matron of honor, is Jackie's best friend.  Virginia's brother is Hayes' best friend.  So we can thank all of those special relationships for helping to create such a celebratory weekend!

       The Martin girls made sure Dad knew he is loved.  As if he didn't already.

Mom and Dad dancing to the music.  This picture brought to mind one of my favorite sayings -  "to love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides".

Judy and Hanse hosted the wonderful reception with style. 

The Wilsons - Hayes, Sherry, Kirk and Jackie. 

Congratulations to the Bride and Groom!