That big day finally arrived for Skyler to walk down the beach, as a flower girl, in Cousin Jodi's wedding. It couldn't have been a prettier afternoon in Cocoa Beach. She looked so beautiful in her dress and she kept reminding me as we drove to the Hilton Hotel that she was Princess Skyler! We arrived shortly before 3:15 and we were greeted by familiar faces, Debi & Ron VanderBaan.
We also saw the gorgeous bride-to-be, a.k.a Cousin Jodi, then followed her Aunite Kevie, Grandlee, Uncle Dog and Cousin Nikki to the elevator for a smooth ride up to the private rooms of the bridesmaids.
The Princess enjoyed hanging with all ten bridesmaids and Cousin Jodi. She especially liked watching the make-up artist touch up the girl's lipstick. In fact, when the last girl was completed, Skyler chimed, "My turn!" Yes, a true girl indeed. Here are a few pictures taken 'backstage'.
It was show time at 4PM, so I kissed my sweet Pea goodbye and just told her to walk through the sand and stand next to Cousin Nikki once you passed me. I would be lying if I told you Tom and I weren't nervous. You see, Skyler is a beach lover and we were afraid she'd take a detour and head to the ocean. As we sat on the second row and watched each young lady walk and then Matron of Honor, Cousin Nikki, we knew Sky was next.....just before the bride.
What an amazing site. Our little 2 year old had no problem walking from the boardwalk stairs, through the sand then down the petal lined aisle. It was like she had done it a million times before. No stage fright, just big smiles and even a wave to Mummy & Daddy!
As you can see in the background, the Princess had quite a long walk, starting to the left of the stack of the white lounge chairs.
She had the wedding guests laughing when she waved and said, "Hi Daddy......Hi Mummy!" You could just see in her face how proud she felt. It had both of us in tears.
Skyler made her way to the front and placed one single flower petal at the foot of Cousin Nikki's feet. Once the ceremony began, Sky just sat quietly on my lap. A perfect flower girl to match a perfect day!
After the nuptials, many pictures were taken of family members. We even had a family shot!
While more pictures were being taken of the new bride and groom, we joined the many friends for appetizers and cocktails on the deck.
Skyler was happy to see her friend Nathan from St. Louis and they got reacquainted by sharing a kiss. They have not seen each since the July 4th 2010 weekend.
After socializing outdoors, we were all asked to gather in the reception hall to begin the celebration. Doesn't she look so grown up. No booster seat or high chair. Such a big girl!
Debi and I quickly found our way to the apple martini bar. Check out this huge block of ice, carved out with the couple's wedding logo. The bartender poured the liquid in the opening and we watched it trickle through the ice sculpture, waiting with our glasses for that fresh, cold cocktail! It was so cool.
I mingled and just had to capture the beach theme cake...
It was time for the wedding party to be introduced and again, Sky was a champ! She walked through those double doors to a loud cheering crowd of over 150 guests.
Introducing the Mr. & Mrs. Roark w/Skyler....
The reception party began and the music was flowing. Skyler immediately jumped on the dance floor and showed off some moves! Did I mention we don't have a shy toddler? She danced.......
And danced......
And coupled danced with Johnathan...
and danced some more.....
with Jamie VanderBaan.......
And danced for 3 hours.....
By 9:30, we had one very tired little girl on our hands. She had only stopped dancing once for a short potty break and then actually said, "Come on Mummy. Let's go party!"
The wedding was fabulous and we were certainly proud of our daughter's flower girl duties! We wish Jodi & Dustin nothing but happiness as you begin this remarkable journey as husband and wife. May God continue to bless you both richly! We thank you for allowing us to share in your special day. It was truly a beautiful wedding!
Jodi & Dustin
11-12-11
We love You!!
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