Wedding!

Kate and Edwin met shortly after they started working together some eight, nine years ago. There was a definite spark, and after a while, they decided to see if the spark could be ignited into a flame.

It could. Oh, yes, it could ignite. But there were irreconcilable differences, and so after a time they broke up.

then the spark. then the differences. repeat.

I called them the reluctant couple.

Several years ago now, they decided it was time to put up or shut up, so gave it a more serious try. They went to counseling to see if their differences could possibly be worked through, and did the work to meet on common ground. 

He moved in three-ish years ago now - has provided amazing support as she's grappled with cancer a second time. They've been getting along well. 

One of their points of agreement was that they saw no need to formalize their relationship with a wedding. They showed their commitment to one another in other ways.

Then, in early February, Kate lost her job. She needs to have decent health insurance, and this tipped the balance - they decided to get married (!!!) so she could join his plan. The catch was that the wedding needed to happen soon, before she officially went off payroll.

They wanted to get married at the Santa Barbara courthouse - because it's pretty - and three weeks ago, Kate found an open slot where someone had canceled for last week. Planning went into high gear. 

They had a bit over two weeks to pull it together, and pull it together they did. They found rings. Kate tried on about a thousand dresses; managed to find the right one. Edwin found a coordinating shirt. They gathered a few family members to celebrate with them, and made reservations for dinner after the ceremony. (Numbers were limited both by courthouse rules and the short notice.)

The ceremony was short and sweet and beautiful. They looked SO happy as they said their vows. 

I cried. Of course, I cried. 

Love Is.