The Secret Woods Nature Center - Broward County's first nature center - is an enchanting venue for an outdoor wedding. Nestled among 57 acres of beautifully-preserved nature and wildlife is Julia Hall, a charming 2,175-square-foot facility. Outside is the rustic Amphitheater, which provides the ideal place for a magical ceremony.
I first met Samantha's family through Dr. Ken Keaton, Music Professor at Florida Atlantic University. Debi, Samantha's mother, had mentioned that Sami was looking for Celtic or Renaissance-type music. I recommended a flute and clarinet duo, and the following music selections:
1) Processional - "Morning Has Broken" (Cat Stevens)
2) Bridal Entrance - "Be Thou My Vision" (Traditional Irish melody)
3) Recessional - "Gigue" (J. S. Bach)
I first met Samantha's family through Dr. Ken Keaton, Music Professor at Florida Atlantic University. Debi, Samantha's mother, had mentioned that Sami was looking for Celtic or Renaissance-type music. I recommended a flute and clarinet duo, and the following music selections:
1) Processional - "Morning Has Broken" (Cat Stevens)
2) Bridal Entrance - "Be Thou My Vision" (Traditional Irish melody)
3) Recessional - "Gigue" (J. S. Bach)
On the special day, the forecast was clear - there was not a cloud in the sky, and the sunlight kissed the trees with its warmth. Samantha was such a beautiful bride, and Weston made a dashing groom.
The ceremony itself was quite moving. I loved the special words the officiant had chosen to bless the couple and convey their everlasting love for one another:
"Cherish every moment that life offers and celebrate every small pleasure.
Express your love at every chance and allow it to unfold gracefully.
Show your devotion and dedicate your lives to the enrichment of each other
Strive for honesty and integrity and seek to understand
Draw upon the love you feel today and forever etch it in your hearts. . ."
"Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be shelter to the other.
Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other.
Now there is no more loneliness, for each of you will be the companion to the other.
Now you are two persons, but there is only one life before you.
Enter now into the days of your togetherness, and may they be good and long upon this earth. . ."
The ceremony itself was quite moving. I loved the special words the officiant had chosen to bless the couple and convey their everlasting love for one another:
"Cherish every moment that life offers and celebrate every small pleasure.
Express your love at every chance and allow it to unfold gracefully.
Show your devotion and dedicate your lives to the enrichment of each other
Strive for honesty and integrity and seek to understand
Draw upon the love you feel today and forever etch it in your hearts. . ."
"Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be shelter to the other.
Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other.
Now there is no more loneliness, for each of you will be the companion to the other.
Now you are two persons, but there is only one life before you.
Enter now into the days of your togetherness, and may they be good and long upon this earth. . ."
As we chatted with the bridal party afterward, one of the groomsmen mentioned that he and Weston first met at the Renaissance Fair. Working with LadyBug Cake Creations, we're so glad to have been able to help Samantha and Weston create a special day that they will always cherish.
Congratulations, Samantha and Weston! It was such a delight to be a part of your magical wedding, and we wish you all the best as you start your journey together!