Upon arriving at Chimney Rock Park this morning, I met Ralph in the parking lot. It was not a ‘scheduled’ meeting. His bride ‘reminded’ him that he needed the marriage license so he had to run back to the car. It’s interesting, all the parking places and we pulled in right beside his car without even noticing the Louisiana tag.Even though we hadn’t met before, it was pretty easy for him to recognize me. Not many guests visit the park wearing black dress clothes! After our introductions I mentioned that the first thing I ask a couple on their wedding day is, ‘Do you have the license?’ The second question is ‘Who has the rings?’ When I said that, he started digging around in the back seat for the rings….
License and rings in hand, we rode up in the elevator together. It was so good to finally get to meet Michelle who was waiting with Katherine, the events coordinator for the park. Another ‘interesting’ thing, yesterday Michelle saw a photo of Lake Lure posted on facebook. As it turn out, Stephanie, her friend from Louisana was vacationing in North Carolina. Michelle sent her a text message asking if she would like to come to a wedding. The really good news is that Stephanie is a photographer and was more than happy to take pictures.
The ceremony was beautiful, if I do say so myself! Michelle and Ralph wrote their own vows, which is always a nice touch. Ralph told me that it had taken him several days to find the right words. And the right words they were… It was an honor to share in that special moment. Although Ralph said he was nervous it certainly didn’t show…
Park guests like to gather around during a wedding. I noticed during the ceremony that someone was videotaping. Afterward he introduced himself and told Michele and Ralph that he would be happy to make them a copy. They were extremely pleased; they had a photographer and videographer! Michelle and Ralph said they truly felt God's blessings on their wedding day.
