Words of Love: Toronto Wedding at The Omni King Edward Hotel, Ontario

A letter to Laura and Wes…

Laura, our precious bridey. Wes, the sweetest hipster cool soul. I've had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of their love story and the beautiful journey of these two coming together.

As we raise our glasses today, let us toast to a lifetime of shared laughter, to the beautiful memories that lie ahead, to whispered secrets and more inside jokes, and, of course, the occasional loving eye roll. May your marriage be filled with love, may your hearts continue to sing, and may your laughter compose a soundtrack of joy in your journey together. Congratulations!

We’re gathered here today as witnesses to the marriage of Laura and Wes. For their decision to enter into this union has not been taken unadvisedly or lightly but reverently, lovingly, and with honesty. For marriage is one of the most intimate of all human relationships, as it’s the sharing of experiences by two people in love.

Now, their love story unfolds over fourteen years, and today we get to witness the beginning of the next chapter of their lives as they become husband and wife.

Wes, as you look into Laura's beautiful eyes, do you take Laura to be your wife through all the days of your life, to love her and cherish her, to help her and honour her, and to give her understanding and comfort in whatever the future may bring?

“I do.”

And Laura, do you take Wes to be your husband through all the days of your life, to love him and cherish him, and to give him understanding and comfort in whatever the future may bring?

“I do.”

“I, Wes, take you, Laura, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do us part.”

“I, Laura, take you, Wes, to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do us part.”

“Laura, with this ring, I give you my love and acceptance until the end of time.”

“Wes, with this ring, I give you my love and acceptance until the end of time. I have no greater gift to give.”

Wes and Laura, I do now pronounce you husband and wife, and invite you to seal your commitment with a kiss.

Wes and I grew up together at my parents' house in the country. Growing up, I often looked to him for direction and guidance. He was always confident and sure of his decisions, and forged his own path after moving to a new city. At the time, I didn't realize it, but I was learning and growing as a person thanks to my older brother.

I remember meeting Laura for the first time about ten years ago and getting to know her since I've seen how her personality and her values are a perfect match for Wes, and how they bring out the best in each other.

Laura, since the day you were born, you have brightened our lives. Your love, your empathy, and your kindness towards others are truly remarkable. You have the most wonderful sense of humor and wittiness. We have watched you grow into the beautiful woman that you are today, and we know that all your grandparents, who loved you so dearly, are smiling down today and are so happy and so proud.

We’d like to say how happy we are that Laura has found, through Wes, such a large, kind, and giving extended family. Your dad and I wish you both all the love and happiness in the world.

I never, never gave up hope that one day I would be here to witness your marriage. It is a miracle, and miracles do come true. You’ve shared so many great adventures together, and today marks the start of a new adventure—a great adventure—as tonight, Mr. and Mrs., you both come from very long lines of love.