“It’s my first time getting married with my mommy and daddy!’ exclaimed 5 year old Sarah-Rose just before the wedding. Ah kids always say the truth from their perspective. Marie-eve and Marc were ready to be married and their daughter was an important part of their day – indeed their life as a family.

The village of Westport is about 1.5 hours drive west of Ottawa. I had finished Eloise and Peter‘s wedding and was on my way there to perform a wedding at the Cove Inn. A pleasant Saturday drive in the country-side avoiding squishing turtles that were crossing the road.

The grounds for the outdoor wedding were beautiful – overlooking a pond.

The live musicians were installed in the gazebo playing some music while everyone got ready to go. Decorations were subtle and natural.

When I asked Sarah-Rose if she was ready – that’s when she made her statement. She was sure pretty and ready to do her duty as flower girl.

When she came down the aisle – she did as most flower girls do – gently picked one petal at a time to deposit on the aisle. When she reached me I encouraged her to spread them all over where her mum and dad were to stand – which she promptly did.

She is a matter-of-fact type of girl. During the sand ritual, as mum and dad are gently pouring their sand in the container – Sarah-Rose dumped all of hers in one tip of her flask. But isn’t that what makes kids charming…

After pronouncing Marie-Eve and Marc married, they kissed of course. It was then that Sarah-Rose chose to rush to them and give them a big hug. They were married together after-all. Damn, there I go tearing up again!

Lemonade was passed around after the service. After a refreshment, I headed home dodging more turtles.