Nelson Wedding

Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you for always: Mr. & Mrs. Nelson!

Family and friends gathered on a hot July day at the sprawling and spectacular ranch at Kilbuck Creek in Monroe Center, IL to celebrate Alex and Nicole’s love story. Guests were immersed in the ambiance of nature for the gorgeous outdoor ceremony and then enjoyed the air conditioning of the ranch’s immaculate barn turned ballroom. This couple is so sweet and fun, and it was a lovely honor to help them unite in marriage.

Enjoy a few excerpts from this special ceremony below.

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As all of you here know, Alex and Nicole were made for each other. It has been wonderful to hear about how their love story unfolded and grew into this beautiful union they are solidifying today.

The story began quite simply. In 2012, both were employed at Jimmy Johns. Apparently, Alex was washing dishes a little too slowly, and his colleague, Nicole, had some words with him. After that slight hiccup, Alex and Nicole actually hit it off and began spending time together outside of work. Fast forward ten years, Nicole now gives Alex credit that he does an excellent job washing the dishes at home.

Their relationship sustained the long distance of Nicole going to college and every 2 weeks Alex making the 4-hour drive to visit her. After a year of weekend commutes, Alex transferred to Central Michigan University to be with Nicole, and they graduated together in 2017.

A lot happened in 10 years. During their time in college, they grew their family of two to include Meeks, the lizard, and a new puppy, Bella. They bought a house together and added another dog, Penny, to their family. They navigated college and entered into their careers. Nicole said, “We grew into full-fledged adults together.” And that is such a beautiful and special bond.

On their 9th anniversary, Nicole pulled into their driveway only to find the garage door open, no other car at home, the door into the house wide open, and no sign or sound from Bella. She thought they had been robbed. Peaking her head into the house she saw the table was missing. She called for Bella and no barks. They had been robbed for sure! But then, she glimpsed a rose petal…and another…and then a whole trail of rose petals. She followed the trail through the kitchen to the sunroom where candles and twinkling lights surrounded Alex and Bella. Bella then showed off her bandana to Nicole. The bandana read, “Will you marry my dad?”

So amazing! What an incredible dog. Not only did she stay quiet on command, but she asked the big question.

But, the story continues, and Alex, down on one knee, declared a sweet, love-filled, speech that Nicole kept interrupting with joyful “Yesses!” What a wonderful surprise for Alex to pull off. Remember that moment always. The pure love and happiness that you both felt. Through the many years to come, continue to do thoughtful, special, heartfelt things for each other that bring your lives joy and peace.

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We are now going to take some symbolic “action” and combine soil and plant a tree. Alex and Nicole, the solemn words spoken today will make your union official. Through the planting of your marital tree, you will truly solidify this special bond.

In your hands you each hold a vessel of soil. Let this sample of earth represent your soul, your body, your being. Everything you are, and everything you will become is contained inside. With this in mind, prepare now to share this soil with your partner – a symbolic melding of your individual spirits at the base of your marital tree. When you combine your individual vessels of soil, you give this tree a strong foundation to call home. As this tree grows, so will your bond. With love and care, its trunk will become tall and its branches strong – capable of withstanding any hardship. Just as a tree weathers a storm, so shall your marriage endure any challenge.

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Vows

(Alex) Nicole, I take you as you are, loving who you are now and who you are yet to become. I promise to appreciate you, to grow with you, and to be supportive of you. I will cherish you always. I will love you and have faith in your love for me, through all our years together and all that life may bring us.

(Nicole) Alex, I take you as you are, loving who you are now and who you are yet to become. I promise to appreciate you, to grow with you, and to be supportive of you. I will cherish you always. I will love you and have faith in your love for me, through all our years together and all that life may bring us.

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May you be poor in misfortune, rich in blessings.
May you know nothing but happiness.
From this day forward.

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To Mr. and Mrs. Nelson and a lifetime of love! Cheers!

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