Grey Likes Weddings

Lasting love and anniversary shoots are just as exciting for us to celebrate as weddings! We were really touched to hear the story of Frank and Karen, who found each other later in life, both as single parents. You can read more about their entire story (and see TONS more gorgeous images) over on their photographer’s blog, Brooke Photo and Design. We’re absolutely in love with all these spring blooms by Sugar Branch Events! Be sure to check out all the fab vendors that made this shoot as beautiful as it is meaningful!

Brooke Photo and Design (photography), Ditzie Cakes (dessert table, treats, styling, and overall collaboration), Sugar Branch Events (floral arrangements, fresh daffodils, bouquet, and boutonniere), Archive Vintage Rentals (furniture, rentals, accessories, plates, glassware, tins and books), Nordstrom (Karen’s Dress), Megan Tracy (personal assistant)

Happy Monday, darlings! (I always start my posts off that way, but really, it really is a happy day).

Today, I’ve got a really really special feature for you. Meet Adolf and Greta–an amazing couple whose 60 year vow renewal reminds us all what this whole lovely thing called marriage is all about. I can’t tell you how desperately I hope Bryan will hold my well-worn hand five decades from now. In a world of uncertainty, seeing couples that have made it remind me of marriage’s possibilities.

Get ready for some heart warming images of one couple that has built my faith, and their story that comes with it. (Lovely images and their story retold by their grandson and granddaughter-in-law, photographers Meg and Rich Brock).

Adolf, 84, and Greta, 80, were both born in Germany. In his early childhood, Adolf left Germany and moved to Namibia (at the time it was a part of South Africa). At 19, Adolf returned to Germany for a 1 ½ years to fulfill a business internship.  During this time, he met Greta, then 16, at a party. The two became friends and there were rumors amongst their peers that a mutual affection for one another had developed. However, when his internship was complete, Adolf returned to Namibia alone. For the next two years, the pair continued to correspond via letters. Finally, Adolf asked Greta if she would come to Namibia. Greta soon found herself on a two week boat ride from Germany to Namibia, unsure of what the future held. Adolf arrived to pick her up, flowers in hand, and the couple was engaged a few months later. They were married in a Lutheran church in Swakopmund, Namibia, on July 14th, 1951. 

Exactly 60 years later, they renewed their vows in the same church, followed by a lunch reception at their Swakopmund home of more than 50 years. Amazingly, Greta assembled all of the food for the event (which included making almost 200 mini-meatballs). The church and house were decorated by flowers and shrubs from her garden. The following evening, everyone gathered for a desert braai (bbq), a South African tradition of grilling meats over charcoal briquettes. 

The most important aspect of their celebration for them was having their family together. Their five children with their spouses, as well as their twelve grandchildren, traveled from America, France, Germany, and South Africa to attend the weekend of festivities.   

As Adolf and Greta reflected on their 60 years of marriage, it was very clear that living in Namibia was often difficult for Greta who missed her native Germany. My husband and I are recently married and find ourselves in a similar situation. It was inspiring to see they were able to maintain their commitment to each other, even in the presence of difficulty. Although I cannot imagine what it would feel like to spend 60 years with another person, I hope Rich and I will follow in their legacy.  

Allen and Christy’s wedding took place on a winter day, with cloudy gray skies. To make up for their lack luster photos, this insanely gorgeous shoot was put together for their anniversary. Photographer Deidre Lynn shot these beautiful images and I just can’t get enough! Lily Belle Floral Design created all of the florals in this shoot–you know I’m a sucker for beautiful flowers. Allen and Christy are professional ballroom dancers who specialize in teaching styled first dances for brides and grooms! Such a great idea! Christy also runs an Etsy shop, Reclaim the Throne, that features reupholstered chairs and other vintage items, so much of what you see is from her collection.

Be sure to check back later today for our third edition of Editor’s Notes.

We’re less than 24 hours away!!! I can’t even handle it!

Image by Elizabeth Messina

Shannon and Eddie recently had Edmund Prieto shoot an anniversary session for them and I just can’t say enough about how pretty it is! Edmund along with Renee from OC Prop Girl styled this shoot and surprised Shannon and Eddie with it.  I absolutely adore that they took the time to string some lights throughout the scene as it got dark. And how much do you love Shannon’s hairpiece? I’ve got it on good authority that the hairpiece was made by Renee!

Edmund has done a really beautiful job capturing all the rich, warm colors…and of course the gorgeous couple! I know you will enjoy!