Yes, you read that right: Yvonne and Lowell were married on August 23, 1958. No, we didn't go back in time to photograph their wedding (but, wouldn't that be cool?) but we were on hand to witness the celebration of the 50th wedding anniversary! They decided to celebrate a little early so that all of their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild, and extended family and friends would be able to attend.
This was a beautiful event. We've been to so many weddings and seen the start of so many marriages, it was a real treat to spend some time with a couple who have made their marriage work for 50 years. Their many accomplishments include 3 children, 8 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, successful careers (him: a minister, her: a nurse), many moves, and world-wide travel!
Yvonne and Lowell are so much in love and it showed throughout the evening in the words that they spoke to each other, the memories guests shared, and the joy that was felt in the room. As Pern and I said when we got home, "Just think... in 46 years we get to do that!" Enjoy the following pictures...
The celebration was held at the Hermitage Inn and Restaurant in Clifton, Virginia.
The happy couple surrounded by their family. What a fun group!
Lowell had Yvonne's wedding dress pressed and out on display.
It was gorgeous!
This is the top of their original wedding cake from 1958! It has been
frozen for 50 years! No, they didn't eat it. (Although I did dare them to do it!)
Their new cake was also beautiful (and edible, too).
A beautiful moment: Yvonne and Lowell spoke meaningful words to each other. He read her the lyrics to "You're Still the One" by Orleans and she read him Elizabeth Barrett Browning's "How Do I Love Thee?" The couple then shared a pair of diamond earrings, in lieu of an exchange of rings. Talk about a cool couple! Word on the street is that 10 years ago they celebrated their "retirements" (they haven't been able to stay retired) with tatoos!
They topped off the evening by cutting their anniversary cake
and sharing a special dance.
What an inspiring couple! Thanks, Yvonne and Lowell,
for letting us be a part of your celebration!
