ust an ordinary summer day you’d think. The sun was shyly hiding behind some cloud here and there, mocking everyone over the fear it would rain. The valley seen from up there appeared so quiet and all the buzzy excitement of Florence seemed dozed off under a hot and stuffy afternoon sun.
But it wasn’t just an ordinary July afternoon for Paola and Alan, for it was to become the most important day of their lives: the one that would mark the beginning of a long journey together!
The music starts playing as guests are arriving, filling the air with talk and laughter while preparing to take their seats. A visibly moved Groom is approaching the altar, while shaking hands and greeting all present. On the first row, seating straight and looking very serious, the page boy is focused on the shiny box he’s holding between his little hands, as if he was the proud guardian of the most precious relic in this world.
The excitement rises as we’re all waiting for the highlight moment of the evening. The sun is now shining completely but everyone is ignoring the heat. A quiet hum is arising, as the music in the background changes to a more solemn sound.
An old lady in the front seats, pulls off a hanky. Everyone is on the edge of their seats, with bated breath and watery eyes. The Groom faces the back of the aisle with his hands folded in front and an obvious emotional look on his face.
Suddenly, the long-waited moment arrives. Three lovely little girls show up, announcing the arrival of the Bride and then shyly but graciously walk down the aisle, taking their seats.
Dressed in a dazzling romantic white lace gown, with a beautiful radiant smile on her face, the Bride slowly walks down the aisle on her father’s arm. She is astonishing and gracious, her tasteful elegance is coming through with every step, and everyone is amazed by her natural beauty. She has kept her brightest smile for the Groom, as her visibly touched father hands her to him. They are now standing in front of me, smiling and looking into each others’ eyes and they are as beautiful as can be. Their enthusiasm is contagious and you can feel their love and excitement filling the air.
The ceremony begins and it’s all about them; it tells their amazing story together, from the first glance of acquaintance to this moment of crowning their dreams. Everyone is impressed and some even shed a tear or two. The Groom’s brother reads a funny poem that makes all laugh and lightens the atmosphere a little bit, before the defining moment of the rings.
A romantic feeling of joy and tenderness is perceived, as they pledge their sincere promises to each other. The page boy stands up proudly like a little trooper: his moment has arrived, so he approaches the altar with the rings.
All present whiteness their commitment to be united in marriage for as long as they shall live, and a loud, heartfelt applause bursts as they seal this vow with their first kiss as Husband & Wife!
Photographer – Rene Rossignaud
Planning – IWP Collection
Florist – Flowers Living