A long awaited wedding - WHEN YOUR CLOSEST FRIENDS GET MARRIED!

May 28

Bride and groom on rooftop kissing with Lake Michigan and the city skyline in the background — Photographs by Sonce Landa Photography

As an officiant, being asked to preside over a wedding is a great honor. But when that wedding involves your best friends getting married on the 10 year anniversary of their first date, it's a whole different level of emotion. This was the case for me when I officiated the wedding of Alison and Kevin on July 26, 2019, in Chicago, Illinois.

The day began with getting ready at our condo, where the bride and groom, along with their two children, Nolan and Raegan, prepared for the big day ahead. I couldn’t help but surprise Alison with with a fun new pair of Mrs. earrings! As we made our way to the rooftop of a high rise building for photographs, the excitement and anticipation was palpable.

The ceremony took place in a private room at Orso's Restaurant in Old Town. As I stood before the couple, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and joy. Knowing Kevin and Alison so well gave me the opportunity to talk to them personally. Their ceremony we delved into the definition of marriage, giving the couple and their guests a reflection of the depth and significance of the commitment they were about to make.

"Marriage is the promise between two people who love each other, who trust that love, who honor one another as individuals in that togetherness, and who wish to spend the rest of their lives together. It enables the two separate souls to share their desires, longings, dreams, and memories, their joys and sorrows, and to help each other through all uncertainties of life. A strong marriage also nurtures each of you as separate individuals and allows you to maintain your unique identity and grow in your own way through the years ahead. It is a safe haven for each of you to become your best self while together you become better than ever could be alone."

Beautiful photographs by Sonce Landa Photography

As a symbol of their unity, Alison and Kevin participated in a unity paint pouring ceremony. Their children, Nolan and Raegan, joined in on the fun, adding their own unique touch to the artwork.

The ceremony also included a reading of "Sooner or Later" by Anonymous. The reading was performed by the bride's brother, Justin, and it spoke to the power of love and the importance of cherishing each moment together.

The wedding was a microwedding, with only 18 people in attendance, including the bride and groom. But that didn't stop the couple and their loved ones from making it a memorable and personalized event. A friend of the couple even surprised the groom with LEGO ring boxes.

The bride also had a surprise of her own for the groom. As they walked down the aisle after exchanging their vows, the iconic Jurassic Park song played, which was a nod to the couple's shared love for the movie.