This spring, I have had a few opportunities to witness one of the greatest expressions of love: marriage!
The first wedding I attended this year was my first Indian/Korean wedding of two people I love and respect. I had no prior knowledge of Korean wedding traditions and customs and all I have heard about Indian wedding customs is that they stretched over a few days, the women wear beautiful clothing and they like to have a good time. All of that was very true!! The two ceremonies blended so well but you walked away knowing that each person’s traditions and customs were represented equally!
The second wedding was what some may call traditional or not. It was again the wedding of two people I love and respect. This wedding took place in the penthouse of the AT&T Center in Downtown LA. The ceremony included all the American traditional things: beautiful flowers, the exchange of personalized marriage vows, beautiful singing, along with the support of family, topped off with a spectacular view of LA. Again, the ceremony represented each person equally!
When I had a free moment to think about these beautiful people and their ceremonies that I was blessed to witness, I walked away with some similarities.
- The attention to detail was extraordinary! There were many things that stood out in both weddings but I will point out my favorite one from each wedding. At the reception for Nithya and Michael, the couple gave out small mason jars engraved with their names, a small amount of M&M’s (I’m sure for color) with a personalized note for each guest. Upon entering the ceremony for Michael and Ben, there was a white tray with neatly folded handkerchiefs and a sign that read, “For Happy Tears PLEASE TAKE ONE.” LOVE is in the details!
- The ceremonies were filled with family and friends that loved both couples. There was not a shortage of love and support in the rooms. As I looked around, guests were smiling and shedding tears of joy while looking at the happy couples! I was overwhelmed with all the love. Surround yourself with people who LOVE you!
- Both couples truly love each other! It’s not about the number of years they have spent together, it’s about the love and respect they share for each other, the compromises they’ve made, looking past each others imperfections (we all have them), sharing the failures and successes and putting egos aside. LOVE is an action!
Michael’s sister recited these words during the ceremony:
He’s Not Perfect by Bob Marley
He’s not perfect. You aren’t either, and the two of you will never be perfect. But if he can make you laugh at least once, causes you to think twice, and if he admits to being human and making mistakes, hold onto him and give him the most you can. He isn’t going to quote poetry, he’s not thinking about you every moment, but he will give you a part of him that he knows you could break. Don’t hurt him, don’t change him, and don’t expect for more than he can give. Don’t analyze. Smile when he makes you happy, yell when he makes you mad, and miss him when he’s not there. Love hard when there is love to be had. Because perfect guys don’t exist, but there’s always one guy that is perfect for you.
Thank you Nithya & Michael and Michael & Ben for inviting me to share in a very special moments. What I know for sure is that special moments make special memories! Here’s to many more years of happiness!!
Two Weddings, One Message: L-O-V-E!