The Magic of Love and Oak Trees

Photo by Paul Silva

We've all been to weddings over the years, and for the most part they all look, sound and feel the same. Not in a bad way, tradition is wonderful, and we grow up wanting to "have our day".

But our traditions aren't the only traditions, and throughout the world there are many, many lovely and fun ways to proclaim our commitment to one another.

When Brian (oldest son) and Shalise were engaged last year they naturally started gathering ideas for their big day. They knew they wanted to be outdoors, and very quickly decided on Malibu Creek State Park. The date was chosen by the availability of the space and the only open weekend in their time frame was March 6-8. Done.

Once the time and place were set they began researching different traditions and ceremonies, knowing more what they didn't want, than what they did. The result was three days of love, family, friends and fun.

In Germany couples are legally married the day prior to the wedding ceremony - because legal affairs are not allowed inside the church (true separation of church and state, how wonderful!). The couple felt this was a great tradition that was also very pragmatic, and they invited their immediate family to join them on Friday for the "legal part."



Becoming husband and wife



From there they headed to the group campground to begin set up for the weekend's festivities. My youngest, Jeff, flew in from Seattle and after picking him up from the airport that afternoon we all met at the site.

The photos don't truly capture the beauty of this place. Lush green hills with old growth oaks and clear blue skies. Nearly impossible to believe you're still in Los Angeles County!

 

 

Location, location, location

 

Got the Jeep unloaded, did some set-up, and rehearsed the ceremony. The stars were bright and beautiful as we headed home.

Saturday was clear and warm with no wind. And everything else was just as perfect as the weather. All of it. Magical.

Picnic tables for seating under the oaks



Gravel clan coming together

Brian and Shalise spent weeks preparing the material, and their family (four parents and two brothers) "performed" the ceremony. The bride was stunning in sage green as her handsome groom walked up the aisle to meet her. 

 

We each read something they selected, and introduced a tradition from several different cultures. Warming of the rings by everyone in attendance, hand washing, drinking from the love cup, and by far the favorite of the day was sawing a log (good size!) in half with a saw her stepfather made for them. I can't wait to see the video because it was so much fun!!

Loving cup

Saying their vows

Explaining the analogy of cutting a log to the challenges of marriage

 

Everyone brought kebobs for grilling and salads and side dishes to share. The reception line ended at a table of cupcakes - including several vegan selections baked by the bride :-). Prior to the traditional toast they announced the gender of the baby and we all cheered for Baby Boy Smith! Jeff gave a heartfelt and beautiful toast to his brother and his wife (I am a blessed mom), followed by tearful words of love from the mother-of-the-bride, and the "formalities" were complete.

Did I mention how magical it was? Under the old oaks, green valley spread out below, and tall hills surrounding us, it was like being swept away to an enchanted land. As the sun set, the lanterns came out and the music began.

Most everyone was camping there until Sunday afternoon so they were able to build a nice fire and celebrate all night! What a great way to continue the happy. To share the joy of the special event.

We weren't staying (no place for the rig, not feeling the tent thing much anymore), and we had a good drive so we left Jeff with his tent and headed for home.

Is there anything more wonderful than seeing your children happy, in love, and preparing to bring their own child into the world?
 



Cheers to love!