all photos by Ruby Star Photography
Like many bees before me, our ceremony was written as a compilation of many ceremonies I had seen around the bee, with a heavy influence from Mrs Cherry Pie's ceremony (which was absolutely gorgeous!). I found posts like hers so helpful, so I figured I would share the majority of our ceremony with you in these next two posts.
"Welcome everyone. Today, we gather together, the family and friends of Mr and Miss Elk, as they declare to each other their commitment to one another. Thank you for being here, from both near and far, to share in their love and celebrate with them on this joyous occasion. They are so glad that each and every one of you could be here!
Today represents not only the joining of Mr and Miss Elk as a couple, but also the joining of their families. Family, both biological and created through the bonds of friendship, is truly the most important thing we have in this life. Mr and Miss Elk are so lucky to have so many people here today, their families, joined together to bear witness to their union
Mr and Miss Elk would like to recognize their parents on this occasion. Mamas and Papas Elk- the unconditional gifts of love and support that you have continually offered have inspired them to become who they are today, and they thank you from the bottom of their hearts. Without you, this day would not be possible."
We asked officiant J if he would be interested in writing our marriage address, and he seemed really excited (albeit nervous). We told him anything would do- he could write about what marriage meant to him, about Mr Elk and I as a couple, whatever struck his fancy. And he did not disappoint! Here are some of the highlights:
"Almost from the get-go, it was clear that Mr and Miss Elk had a mutual interest in one another and that there was evident chemistry between the two. It was clear to pretty much everybody, except for the two of them. See, for those of you who don’t know, Mr and Miss Elk used to spend hours, and I mean hours hanging out, talking to each other, getting to know one another, and just being in each other’s company; without admitting their actual feelings to one another. Miss Elk would come into Mr Elk's room to bug him and then hours later they’d still be talking. This happened routinely from the beginning of the school year in August all the way until feelings were finally shared in mid-November
Over the course of our time at the UofR and in the 4 years since graduation, you two have grown incredibly, both as individuals and as a couple. Mr Elk, you are a caring friend; a sharp and sarcastically funny person, and a successful software engineer. Miss Elk, you are a dedicated friend, a compassionate and energetic person, and you are going to make an exceptional pediatrician. Together, you are each other's best friends and as I think that everyone in this room can attest to- together you just make sense.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your day. I cannot
fully express my gratitude for having the honor of marrying such a complete
couple, such amazing people, and such great friends. And I cannot wait to see the two of you
conquer the rest of life’s obstacles together, making it look easy all the
while.
Now, for the reason we are all gathered here today…. Let’s
get you two married!"
While we were standing up there, it became apparent to me that we weren't alone- and I'm not talking about our invited guests. We had some surprise visitors who were not so pleasant- gnats! Apparently getting married next to the water right around dusk isn't the brightest idea. For me and my bridesmaids, with exposed shoulders and arms, this was not a pleasant experience. I had to FORCE myself not to hit myself in the back, despite knowing that bugs were crawling all over me! My bridesmaids tried hard, but there is some photographic evidence of scratching and swatting.Luckily, my guests were mostly spared thanks in large part to our fan programs, which you can see here getting some use:
Despite the unwanted guests, the ceremony was going very smoothly, and it was just about time for the good stuff! 
1. The Elks part ways with their pooch, and eat WAY too much rainbow cookie cake
2. Mrs Elk beautifies with her ladies after a less than stellar wake up call
3. Mrs Elk REALLY wants to put her dress on already!
4. The Elks- Reunited and it feels so good!
5. The Elk bridal party poses, while Mrs Elk makes Tyra Banks proud
6. The Elks strike a pose with their families
7. Disaster strikes- and is resolved without me ever knowing!
8. The Elks learn the importance of a quick rehearsal
9. The Elks follow the
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