Colette and Iain exchange vows at the J C Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, August 1, 2009

When Colette (a political science major at UNC-Chapel Hill) went to Ireland 18 months ago to study at the University of Ulster, little did she know she would meet the love of her life, Iain, who was a music major studying there at the time. They became inseparable - or at least as much as possible with the Atlantic ocean between them and the occasional romantic trip through Europe! They have at last managed to become husband and wife - and I was thrilled to be a part of it.

The vibrant orange of the Bridesmaids’ dresses was matched by the vibrance of the hot summer sun and the beautiful bright flowers of the bouquets, which Colette and her Bridesmaids had made themselves. They were stunning!

The ceremony and reception were held in the lovely White Garden of the J C Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh. The White Garden is a little gem tucked away in the back part of the arboretum and it was perfectly suited for the special celebration that Colette and Iain shared with their family and friends.

The ceremony took place at the gazebo...

And the Bridal Party entered through the romantic arbor opposite the gazebo.

Being the first day of August - and seemingly the hottest and most humid day of the year - the old-fashioned fans they provided their guests were a much welcome aid against the heat of the sun. This old-style fan is a tried-and-true mainstay and using one again for the first time in a long time it was easy to see why they have remained so popular - they are effective! And the “Colette and Iain” tag that was attached to each one added a genteel touch.

The music for the event was provided by violinist Emi (pronounced “Amy”) Hildebrandt of Elegant Violin Duets. Although she was solo that day, she normally performs with her husband, Udo, also a violinist. She is an excellent musician and she and her husband perform with the NC Symphony.

Although it was a hot day, it was such a special wedding celebration with folks from both sides of the Atlantic getting to know each other that I doubt many of them even noticed the heat. They had brought in tables of food and beverages and it was obvious they were going to have a grand time in this quiet little haven in Raleigh.

Their cute little flower girl was just adorable and very shy and I couldn’t resist including a photo of her here. (That’s mom’s skirt she is leaning into.)

So Colette and Iain, I would love to know where your lives and your wanderlust will take you from here! It is sure to be fun and exciting no matter what. May your lives provide all the gifts that Life can bring.

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