This was the hardest part of the whole event. The couple had lots of ideas to incorporate different ethnic traditions. They had read up on many traditions and pick out the ones that meant the most.
After much thought, the couple finalize the program as a booklet. The outside cover had sparkled glitter. The paper inside had a woodsy, leaf motif. The booklet was held together with a staple and blue ribbon.
After reading every reading under the sun, the couple decided on readings that represented their love. Incidentally, the same readings were read at the bride's sister's wedding in 2000. The blessing read by the minister was an ancient Celtic prayer, in honor
of Karl's irish heritage.
Old Testament
Responsial Psalm
New Testament
Gospel
The Prayer of the Faithful
Irish Prayer
The Ring box replaced the ring pillow idea. In the bride's opinion, little boys don't usually like to carry white pillows. Instead, the bride created a ring box, based off a Mexican tradition. The box carried the couple's rings and 13 gold coins (the couple used the $1 US coin) which represented the 12 disciplines and Christ.
The groom gives the bride these coins and says "I give you these coins as a symbol of my dedication in caring for our home and providing for our family worldly necessities."
In return, the bride gave back the box to groom, stating "I accept your symbolic gift of dedication and promise on my part that everything provided wil lbe used with care for the benefit of our home and family".
The couple's wedding bands were custom-made by an artist called Circle Around the Moon, from Maine.
The bride found the rings in at
Tomlinson Craft Collection in Baltimore, MD,
when she was looking at treasure rings.
The gemmel rings are based on a renaissance design and represents the idea of two becoming one.
The band seems to be one but when taken off, the band can open up to two links. Inside the links the words "True Love, 5/26/02, Amor Poderoso".
The rings are unique enough for the bride,
but plain for the groom. A perfect compromise.
