Wedding Words of Wisdom - 7.18.20 - Mike & Jeri

It was 96 degrees in the shade and who knows how hot in the sun but Mike and Jerri didn’t mind a bit. They were both so excited for this special moment in their lives. In front of about 20 people, they very enthusiastically said their vows to the cheers of their family and friends.

Jerri looked beautiful in a white sun dress and Mike led the way for the color theme of the wedding - camouflage. Several people participated wearing camo outfits including the DJ who had a camouflage tuxedo t-shirt!

The wedding was in the backyard of their lovely new home in Olmsted Township. There was a tent set up for the guests so that they would be safe from the sun.

This was one of the most enjoyable weddings I have done. There was so much joy and excitement in the air. I am so happy these two found each other and I am honored that I could be a part of their special day.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 7.11.20 - Craig and Rhonda

Craig and Rhoda couldn’t be a happier couple. You can just tell that these two people were meant to be with each other forever.

 They planned an outdoor wedding in their lovely, large back yard in Macedonia. The week before it had been in the 90s. But Saturday morning it was not only much cooler but also raining and dreary. Fortunately, by 4:00 p.m. the skies cleared and the sun came out just for their wedding.

 Craig and Rhonda had the yard decorated beautifully and about 30 guests attended this joyous affair. Rhonda looked stunning in a long, form-fitting beaded gown with a slight train. And Craig looked dashing in a blue suit. Music and photography went smoothly as well as the ceremony being Zoomed for Rhonda’s son who is in the military and a few other people.

 I love performing second time around weddings like this because the couples are older and wiser. They know exactly what they want in a spouse and when they find it they are so thankful and in love. Craig and Rhonda were just like that repeating their vows and exchanging rings with so much joy.

 This is a couple that I know I will see again. I wish them so much love and happiness!

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 7.13.20 - Henry and Adora

This morning was a particularly beautiful summer morning at Blue Hen Falls in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Not only was it cool compared to the last two weeks, but Henry and Adora were getting married. This young, loving couple decided that this gorgeous area was the perfect place for their elopement.

I was happy to officiate at their 8:00 a.m. wedding on this Monday morning wedding. I knew we would be hiking a ways back into the woods but it was a much longer walk than any of us thought it would be. What I did not anticipate was that they wanted to get married right in front of the falls which is down a very steep , rocky cliff to a rock bed. Fortunately, John, my husband, came along to take photos for them and he was able to help me get down and then back up.

It was a short and very sweet ceremony with the two of them looking lovingly at each other. John even got some video of the ceremony for them to share with family and friends later. It was really beautiful but next time I am asked to do something like this I will be sure to wear more sensible shoes!

Fortunately, we all made it back up the cliff and the long walk back to a waiting car. The park has been closed because of the pandemic as well as the parking lot. So the couple had a friend that shuttled us back and forth from a parking lot down the hill.

Wishing this sweet couple lots more adventures and happiness always. This was certainly an adventure for me and I loved it!

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 6.20.20

This past Saturday when it was 90 degrees I officiated at Dan and Karen's wedding in the gardens of Unity Spiritual Center. Yes, it was a bit toasty but no one seemed to mind. We were all so thankful that it wasn't raining because there was no real Plan B other than their home. And they really wanted to get married outdoors in the garden.

After many problems with their wedding venue, rings and the pandemic, they didn't need anything else to go wrong. And it didn't. All of their daughters were able to attend as well as several family members and friends. There was even an uninvited but welcome guest - a little rbunny I met in the garden.

The bride and groom were all smiles and so much in love. It turned out to be a perfect setting for an intimate wedding. Karen looked beautiful in a pink crepe dress with matching bouquet. Their combined family of adult daughters were all in long pastel crepe dresses and looked lovely.

With music and a small processional, the happy couple said their vows with a surprise personal ending right before the kiss. I love when couples want me to add something very personal to make their ceremony unique and memorable. Wishing this lovely couple many happy years together.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 5.20.20 - Vickie & Mary

I’m not sure there could have been a more joy-filled wedding than that of Vickie and Mary. These two have been together for 17 years and in love all of those years. Today they felt it was time to make it legal. They live on very beautiful property in Lorain County which turned out to be a perfect location for their wedding ceremony. The weather cooperated at 68 degrees and sunny.

Vickie and Mary were joined by seven of their dearest friends. Scott, Mary’s best friend of many years, served as Best Man. Judy added to the ceremony with 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. Everyone wore masks beatuifully created by Vickie. We chose not to wear masks just for the ceremony.

They were both relaxed, happy and emotional as the words of the ceremony sunk in. They were really finally getting married. Such love! They both carried lily of the valley bouquets that smelled exquisite. Champagne was a plenty afterward with heart-warming toasts.

This shows that you can have a lovely, very personal wedding even during a pandemic. I know that these two wonderful women will continue to have a blessed live together for many years to come. It was my honor to be a small part of this joining.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 5.16.20 - John & Robin

Congratulations to John and Robin - my first social distancing wedding! Well, we weren't exactly six feet away but pretty close. Robin and John met online and immediately hit if off. Only problem was that John lives in Cortland, OH and Robin lived in California. But love won out and Robin moved to Cortland (which is near Warren if you don't know).

The wedding ceremony took place at Mosquito Lake and fortunately, the lake did not live up to its name. No mosquitoes were present. Only John's mother, Ethel, my husband, John, and our little Yorkie, BeBe.

We had to hike a way to get to the exact spot that they picked out. (I definitely should have worn different shoes!) John saw this little purple stone saying "Pass Love On." What a perfect sign for this day!

The bride and groom were very excited and both got a bit emotional during the vows and ring exchange. So sweet. They exchanged beautiful, unique wooden rings. My bet is that these two lovebirds are going to live happily ever after.

Email me at revshirley@divineloveceremonies.com if you are looking for a personal and special wedding ceremony.

Wedding Words of Wisdon - 1.4.20

Who gets married outdoors in January? Nicholas and Hannah, that’s who. When Hannah and her mother first contacted me, I thought they were kidding. But Hannah said that she always dreamed of a Hallmark-type wedding outdoors with snow and holiday lights. So, after Nicholas proposed, the first place she called was the city of Strongsville to see if they could get married in The Commons gazebo. Strongsville always has the best town holiday lighting display in the area. They readily agreed and said that this was a first. Not for a wedding in the gazebo, but for a wedding in January in the holiday-decorated gazebo.

Always open for a challenge and unusual wedding requests, I was game. The week before it was looking like Hannah would not have the snow-covered wedding she so wanted. But on Saturday, the rain turned into snow just a few hours before the wedding and it was beautiful against the incredible light display.

The groom, me and 40 or so guests huddled together in the gazebo awaiting the beautiful bride. She arrived with an umbrella escort in a short-to-long white dress and shawl. Nicholas took his jacket off and they braved the cold together with the warmth of their love. I, on the other hand, was toasty in my long, winter coat and boots. The ceremony went off without a hitch and the enthusiastic crowd cheered for the happy couple. The lovely, lighting display made for incredible and very unusual wedding photos.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 12.31.19 - David & Sherry

David and Sherry know how to end a year - and begin a new one. - by getting married on New Year’s Eve! They have been together ten years and decided that it was time to make it legal. And the children were thrilled! All three of them looked so cute dressed up in their fancy clothes.

Sherry looked like a fairy princess in an orchid shimmering gown. David was very handsome in a black suit which really set off his long white beard.

This was a small, intimate wedding with just their kids and four family members. They chose Unity Spiritual Center in Westlake, the church that I belong to, to have their ceremony. The church has a beautiful prayer room which was just the right size for this size of a wedding.

As it turned out, after having gone to two services at the church, they have decided to attend every Sunday. So they have not only committed to each other but in the process have found a church that has a wonderful Sunday school for their kids and feeds the two of them spiritually as well.

Wishing this lovely family many happy years together!

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 11.16.19 - Juan and Ali

Joy and love were in abundance at Juan and Ali’s wedding in the Cleveland Flats! It was held at a new venue called Tenk on the west bank. Weddings are always full of love and joy but this one was exceptionally filled with such incredible energy. I think it had something to do with how the two families feel about each other. It was quite evident that both families were thrilled that their children found each other.

Handsome Juan was as calm as could be and was really enjoying the whole day. When he entered the ceremony after me he smiled broadly and waved to his guests. Ali entered with her mother and they were more subdued but, obviously, very excited. Ali looked absolutely stunning in a classic satin gown with a long train.

Ali and mother were lead in by two bagpipers in full regalia. They were very impressive coming and going as they also lead the happy couple out after they were presented as Mr. and Mrs.

Juan and Ali were so caught up in the moment listening and reciting the vows and ring exchange with great emotion. I am so honored to have officiated at this very special ceremony. I know that the love this couple has for each will only grow in the many years to come. Wishing them may blessings.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 11.9.19 - Andrew & Kate

What a beautiful day of love and excitement! Kate and Andrew were married in Massillon at Santangelo’s. The hall looked like a fairyland with twinkling lights in mesh strewn from the four corners of the room.

Kate looked gorgeous in a stunning full-length gown with her bridesmaids each in a different deep fall color. Andrew was all in black as were his groomsmen. All very stylish.

Kate has the wedding music cued for the DJ by the minute and we started exactly at 3;30 p.m. The bride and groom both did a great job at reciting their vows while taking in the meaning of the words.

Wishing them both much peace, love and happiness.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 10.12.19 - Jacob and Nicole

The incredibly beautiful Old Stone Chapel was the setting for the wedding of Jacob and Nicole. Formerly a Lutheran church, This lovely church is located in downtown Canton and is now used only for weddings. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is well known for its vaulted flowered ceilings, polished Italian marble walkways and wondrous stained glass.

This was the perfect setting for Jacob and Nicole to so lovingly say their vows. They chose to recite my vows and add a personal message of love at the end. They both handled this difficult task with love, sincerity and poise.

They also chose the Unity Wine Box ceremony where they wrote love letters to each other that they locked in a box with a bottle of wine and two glasses. This is to be opened on their fifth anniversary to celebrate. However, if they have difficulty in their marriage, they may choose to open it sooner and read the love letters. This will remind them of why they married and help them get through this difficult time.

A family friend sang “The Book of Love” which added a lovely, personal touch to the ceremony.

They both looked amazing and so much in love. If ever two people should be together it is Jacob and Nicole. Sending them love and blessings in their new life together.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 9.28.19 - Matthew & Jessica

Matthew and Jessica - these two couldn’t be more in love. Their wedding ceremony took place in their very large, beautiful backyard before about 80 guests. They had a lovely trellis decorated with incredible fresh flowers.

Matthew was as cool as could be before the wedding. But when we got to the vows his emotions came out while watching his bride cry tears of joy. They both made it through the vows and ring exchange with obvious love and sincerity.

And I am happy to note that though they were facing each other holding hands, they both looked at me during the message part in the beginning. It’s nice to see that they were really listening to what I was saying and taking the words seriously.

Jessica was walked down the aisle by her adorable and very serious 10-year old son. He and other 10 year-old also safely held the rings.

Matthew and Jessica both looked elegant and lovely. Wishing them a life of great joy and love.

WEdding Words of Wisdom - 9.21.19 - Jason & Claudia

I had two weddings this weekend with the second one being dramatically different than the first. Jason and Claudia chose to wed at The Church at Frostville in the Metroparks North Olmsted. The church is over 150 years old and air conditioned - thank goodness. It was quite warm this day but the bride and groom and guests were comfortably cool.

Being a beautiful historic church was perfect for Jason and Claudia’s intimate wedding with about 80 guests in attendance. And one of them turned to be my cousin which was a surprise for me.

Jason looked quite handsome in a formal suit and vest although a bit warm. Claudia was beautiful in a traditional lace gown. Claudia was pocketed away in a limo van waiting to make her grand entrance. The church doors were closed after the wedding party entered and opened to a dramatic reveal of the beautiful bride escorted by her two brothers.

This church is a fairly new venue for weddings and sure to become a favorite for couples looking for a spiritual and intimate setting.

Wishing Jason and Claudia years of love, fun and excitement.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 9.20.19 - Trey & Macy

Windows on the River City View Room in my opinion is one of the most beautiful and best wedding venues in Cleveland. I married Trey and Macy there on Fri. Sept. 20 with breathtaking views of the city as the backdrop.. This lovely couple fit right into the beauty of this unique venue. The decorations were exceptional with flowers everywhere including vines and roses lining the dramatic staircase. Macy was afraid she would not be able to manage the steps in her exquisite form-fitting gown but she did beautifully escorted by her very proud father.

Trey got a bit emotional when he saw his beautiful bride. So very sweet. They make an incredible couple. They both looked amazing for their very special day. They easily made it through the ceremony with very sincere and meaningful vows.

After the ceremony the guests exited to the outdoor terrace right on the Cuyahoga River. Another incredible backdrop for scenery and photos.

This is a couple who are very obviously in love. They have a wonderful and exciting life ahead of them. Wishing them love and continued happiness.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 9.14.19 - Chris & Angie

It couldn’t have been a more beautiful day in Brunswick at Mapleside Farms yesterday - bright blue sky, sunny and 74 degrees. A perfect day for a perfect couple - Chris and Angie. The couple chose not to have a rehearsal because there was only her daughter and a ring bearer/flower girl in the wedding party. However, as the weeks went by after our initial meeting, they added a Unity Rose ceremony and a reading. The rose ceremony involves the mothers. I got to the wedding early to have a mini-rehearsal with them to make sure that everyone knew exactly what they needed to do to be comfortable. Although it was a challenge for the nervous groom to get all of these people together at the same time, after having this impromptu rehearsal, the ceremony came off flawlessly.

Chris got teary-eyed when he saw his beautiful bride. Angie was as calm as could be and looked stunning in a beaded, form-fitting gown. It was quite windy and her veil was flying all over which just added to the wonderful spontaneity of the moment.

The mothers walked in with the roses and presented them to their children to exchange as a symbol of love and commitment. to each other.

Angie’s 18 yr. old daughter, Hayley, had the honor of holding her mother’s bouquet and the rings. She looked quite lovely in a pale pink gown and beamed throughout the ceremony.

These two couldn’t be more in love and it showed. Wishing this very special couple a lifetime of love and happiness.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 9.7.19 - David & Robin

David and Robin chose to have their wedding indoors - a smart thing to do with the uncertain weather we have in Northeast Ohio. Theirs was at TwinHaven in Twinsburg. This is a lovely venue with a large stage that is used for the bridal party. We performed the ceremony in front of the stage that was beautifully decorated with huge flower art in Robin’s color scheme of turquoise, black and hot pink. Very different and quite outstanding.

Robin looked lovely in a heavily -beaded full gown with a plunging neckline. Chris was very handsome in black with turquoise accents.

David even made large wooden planters that were painted black that stood at the entrance of each row of chairs. The flowers were magnificent white chrysanthemums and huge white orchids. This was one of the most beautifully decorated weddings I have ever seen.

The bride and groom were calm and happy during the ceremony cherishing each moment. Sending them lots of love in their new life together.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 8.31.19

Dan and Rebecca had a beautiful day for their lakefront wedding. It was held at their lake house in Lake Milton. Having never been to Lake Milton, my husband and I and our little Yorkie, Madam BeBe, made it a weekend adventure. We went in the day before and explored all the antique and resale shops in the area as well as the state park and Lake Milton. What fun!

This was a laid back wedding with the bride and groom mingling with the guests before the ceremony during a cocktail hour. Even BeBe was welcome at the wedding! They really did a beautiful job in decorating with a lovely arch and a classy, rustic decor inside the tent for dinner.

Dan and Rebecca’s combined five children made up the wedding party. Rebecca looked beautiful in a stylish. classic full-length wedding gown and Dan was more casual with a comfortable white shirt, khaki slacks and sandals - all perfect for a lakeside wedding.

What was a surprise for me was that the father of the bride was someone I have known for over 30 years! Not well though - a friend of a friend. And there were two couples that were guests that I had married not only them but each of their daughters. What a wonderful time to reunite with all these great people!

The weather was perfect and the energy was high. It was certainly one of the most beautiful and fun weddings I have ever performed. Wishing this lovely couple many years of love and happiness.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 8.17.19

“They” say that when it rains at your wedding it means good luck. That should be true for Jeremy and Sarah then. The forecast was thunderstorms in the afternoon but it was sunny and nice when I arrived at the couple’s home. They had the backyard all decorated beautifully and set up for an outdoor wedding. The ceremony area had a lovely arch decorated with sunflowers.

Sarah looked gorgeous in a classic gown with a lace bodice. Jeremy was very handsome in a vest and tie. They were both so excited to start. Their 4-year old little girl was a standout as she came down the aisle with her grandmother. Everything was going as planned for about the first half and then the rain drops started. We waited until there was a good place to stop - right before the “I do’s” - then we all hurried inside to complete the ceremony in the living room. Not what the bride and groom had envisioned but the energy in the house was one of love and joy so it was still beautiful - and certainly memorable.

Of course, as soon as the ceremony was over the rain stopped. But they had nice weather for the reception. It’s always good to have a Plan B for an outdoor wedding - especially in Northeast Ohio! Wishing them much love and happiness in their new life together.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 8.10.19

Last Saturday was a picture perfect day for Joe & Stacey’s wedding. It was held at Chenoweth Country Club in Canton. I love performing weddings there because it is expertly run by Jan and Darla, the event coordinators. If you live in that area, this is the place for your wedding. They handle everything in great detail and the place is beautiful inside and out. Pretty much like this bride and groom - beautiful inside and out. Two very nice people with a lovely family as well.

Stacey looked gorgeous in a classic lace wedding gown. Joe was decked out with a full tuxedo as were his groomsmen. Lots of grooms are choosing less formal wear because of the heat in weddings outdoors in the summer. This wedding was indoors and air conditioned so they had nothing to worry about.

Both the bride and groom were so serious and focused throughout the service staring lovingly in each others’ eyes. Stacey hardly blinked when I asked her to repeat after me “I Joe take take you Stacey.” She immediately caught my mistake and correctly said “I Stacey take you Joe.’ Then she and Joe laughed as well as the guests while I gathered myself together apologizing. That was a first for me - and I guarantee the last time I make that mistake. Later when I was apologizing again to them, Stacey laughed and said that was exactly what she needed right then to get through the vows. Whew!

Wishing this very special couple all the love and happiness in the world.

Baby Blessing - 8.8.19

Yesterday was an incredibly beautiful day for a very special little baby girl - Lydia Kimberly. Her parents, Carmen and Jenna picked Sun Valley Party Center in Chagrin Falls for her blessing. Stunning grounds were the perfect setting and baby Lydia was a perfect participant in her welcoming ceremony smiling and gurgling the whole time. She was accompanied by godparents, grandparents and even great grandparents. Her grandmother pointed to me that she was the third generation to wear the same gown that she had purchased in England so many years ago.

I perform my baby blessings with rose petals in blessed water. The blessing consists of placing the blessed petals on the baby's top of the head (for connection, protection, love and blessings by God), her forehead (to awaken her senses), her heart (to feel love and compassion) her hands (to reach out to the world) and her feet (to stay grounded and connected).

The family all participated by lighting candles, reciting affirmations and two special messages by Lydia's mother and grandfather. What a lovely way to welcome this beautiful baby girl into her family and our community. The memory of this day will always be one of love and joy.