Real Weddings

Normans Bridal Shoppe has celebrated with thousands of brides since opening in 1980.

View More: http://virginiaann.pass.us/tippinwedding

Cristin and Brad’s Perfectly Rainy Texas Wedding~6-3-17

Our wedding (and the events leading up to it) was one of unpredictable and unexpected surprises. My husband Brad had planned to propose to me in my home town, atop Enchanted Rock where we shared our first kiss. While Brad, my family and I were heading out the the park for what I thought was a casual hike, we discovered the park was closed due to reaching capacity. Without breaking a sweat, Brad asked me where I thought we should go and I led them to a hill off the beaten path with beautiful views of my hometown. Little did I know, I got to choose where Brad would ask me to marry him.

If that wasnโ€™t a surprise enough, just after Brad proposed, his family (from states away) came out from their hiding places and had flown in and followed us around as our plans changed to witness the proposal and share in the event with us. What an incredible day that was!

Just weeks after the proposal I had my appointment at Normanโ€™s Bridal to shop for my dream dress (thanks mom for planning ahead). Pat quickly seemed to grasp my style and just four dresses in, she brought me the gown I would walk down the aisle in. When I began my appointment Pat told me I would know, and when I slipped into the dress, I knew.

The big day finally came for our dream outdoor June Texas wedding at GrapeCreek Winery and things were flowing seamlessly. Looking back on that day, it is so sweet to reflect on the details that filled that joyful day. At 6:30pm (ceremony start time) I was dressed in my gown, peaking at my soon to be husband, lined up behind my bridesmaids. And at 6:30pm it began to rain. The radar showed a slight break in the storm was close but that break would be brief. So the very second the rain ceased, the musicians began to play and the ceremony began. Storm clouds rolled in behind us throughout the ceremony giving guests an apparent โ€œlight showโ€ behind us. But the storm held off long enough for us to share our vows and be married. We quickly snapped some photos with our Bridal party and as a couple before the skies opened and it poured on us for what felt like forever.

While I never hoped it would rain on my wedding day, looking back I wouldnโ€™t change a thing. We endured two rain storms, got drenched in our suits and gowns and then danced (hard) on our wet dance floor in our bare feet for the rest of the night. And at the end of the night we were sent off under a tunnel of sparklers. It was such a sweet and memorable day that I will truly forever cherish. Every moment, every detail, all of our friends and families in one place. It was perfect.

Photo Credit: Virginia Ann Photography