It's officially been three months of marriage. It feels like just yesterday I was getting ready to walk down the isle. Everyone tells you to treasure the moments because your wedding day goes by fast. I keep trying to remember the day exactly how it was.
The night before the wedding we had our rehearsal at the church where would be wed the next day. Following the rehearsal we had dinner with our families, wedding party, and pastor. We chose Valley Brewing Company for our rehearsal dinner where Aaron and I have had many of our dates. Things we enjoy are good craft beer, and good conversation. It fit us pretty well. Once dinner was over Aaron and I parted ways. I decided to stay at my future home with my bridesmaids that night. It was pretty bittersweet. Laying on the living room floor watching a silly chick-flick with some of my best friends and finishing packing for the honeymoon was a perfect way to spend my last evening as Ms. Hamilton.
The wedding day. I woke up early showered and changed into comfy clothes and one of Aaron's flannels. My friends left to go get coffee and pick up the flowers. I felt so restless I decided to just start cleaning the kitchen and BLAST worship music to keep myself pre- occupied. When it was time I gathered my things and drove to the University Waterfront Hotel where my parents had been staying for the weekend.
I had breakfast with my mom and dad the morning of the wedding. We had bagels and talked about normal family things and talked about how the day would play out. My mom read me an incredible letter she had written to me. It almost brings me to tears thinking about all of the sweet things she said. I couldn't have asked for a better way to start my day.
Not long after we finished breakfast my matron of honor had arrived to start my hair and makeup... and just like that the day was on it's way! One by one the rest of my bridesmaids arrived. We got ready all together as we have done so many times before. Except this time it wasn't for a football games, girls nights, or a girls dinner... it was for my wedding day! I remember almost crying twice while Kristin (matron of honor) did my makeup that morning. I kept thinking about how our friendship has grown and how incredibly blessed I am to have someone like her in my life.
Meanwhile, as us girls got ready at the hotel, Aaron and his groomsmen got ready at our soon to be home. They spent their time playing dominos and just hanging out before it was time for them to get ready. It wasn’t long until Shannon (Aaron’s dad) was dropping off a wedding gift from Aaron. I opened the gift and letter Aaron had written me. Of course bringing tears to my eyes. I was now ready to get into my dress and head to the wedding photo location! My mom helped me into my dress and put on my wedding shoes. The button on the bustle of my dress had broken off (YIKES). Thankfully my friends came prepared with a needle and thread! I put my veil on and we were off to take photos.
After taking photos with the girls at University of the Pacific we hurried off the the church so the groom wouldn’t see me! It seemed like forever waiting for guests to start arriving. I sat hidden in an auditorium across from the church waiting. I spied on all the guests as they entered the church and tried catching glimpses of Aaron as he greeted guests.
It was finally time. I was escorted to the church by my maid- of- honor where my dad was waiting for me. We both seemed so nervous. Hoping we wouldn’t walk too fast or trip on my dress. It wasn’t until I saw Aaron standing at the alter that all the butterflies went away. It was unlike any other experience. We were surrounded by all of our friends and family whom we love dearly. The pastor of our wedding was not only the pastor from our church by someone both Aaron and I consider a friend. I was convinced I would cry at our wedding. All I did was smile. It’s like I was just so happy tears didn’t even have a chance to come to the surface.
And just like that… we were Mr. and Mrs. Running.
We had a brief moment to ourselves after we exited the church. We sat in the same room I waited hours in just before the wedding. As we both sat there speechless the first things that came out of my mouth was “we are married”, “I missed you today”, and “how has your day been”. Not incredibly profound I know.. but that’s all I could mutter without crying.
The guests went over to the reception as Aaron and I took our wedding photos with the photographer. Then joined our guests at the Civic Auditorium in Downtown Stockton for the reception where we danced the night away. It was incredible dancing and celebrating with family and friends. The night was coming to a close. Aaron and I had one last dance to “Let’s be still” by the Head and the Heart. Our friends then formed a tunnel. We ran through as everyone cheered and yelled for us. Hopped in the car and we drove off as husband and wife.
Three months later and I couldn’t be more thankful that God has blessed me with such an incredible husband. One who shows me Grace, and loves on me. Thankful to go through this life by his side.
Photos by Scot Woodman Photography