“For the two of us, love isn’t a place. It is a person. And we are finally home.”
The word I heard most on Tiiu and Doug’s wedding day was balance, and within moments of meeting them anyone could agree that this is the perfect word to describe their relationship. Tiiu has a bright, bubbly personality that draws you in right away. She has eclectic taste, and loves color and sparkles. Doug is steady and classic, but has his own quiet confidence about him. He is supportive and thoughtful with the kindest heart, and when these two are together they complete each other. Tiiu is the mother of Liia, one of our 2016 brides who we absolutely loved. Doug fits right in and they both name family as one of the most important things in their lives.
Doug and Tiiu met years ago when they were both teenagers on the swim team. They had small moments of dating in between other relationships growing up, and eventually parted ways but stayed friends. When the time was right, their paths crossed again, and the connection they had picked right back up. They still name their high school dates as some favorite memories together. Their first date was seeing the premiere of Rocky Horror Picture Show at midnight, and the theme of seeing movies together has continued to this day.
Doug and Tiiu were married at Kennet Friends Meeting in a traditional Quaker ceremony. In these ceremonies the bride and groom say their own vows, and then the entire congregation is invited to speak as they feel moved. For nearly an hour the room was filled by friends and family sharing stories, memories, and well wishes for the bride and groom. The word balance again came up many times as guests shared the impact Doug and Tiiu, together and as individuals, have had on them. You could so clearly see the love that surrounds Tiiu and Doug.
Though it was rainy and dreary outside, Tiiu and Doug never once let this get in the way of their big day. We worked photos into the breaks between showers and made the best of the situation. After the ceremony everyone traveled to the couple’s favorite restaurant – Harry’s Savoy Grill in Wilmington. All the guests were invited to the dance floor to share in the newlyweds first dance. Dinner was followed by toasts by the best man, Mike, and Tiiu’s three children. Everyone danced the night away, led by the live band.
All in all it was the loveliest day and I am so grateful to have been a part of capturing Doug and Tiiu’s happy day.
– H
Ceremony Venue: Kennett Friends Meeting
Reception Venue: Harry’s Savoy Grill
Florist: Beautiful Blooms
Dj/Entertainment Services: The Bullets
Cake: Liberty Lane Bake Shoppe
Catering: Harry’s Savoy Grill
Gotta say, Haley, You really captured the day just perfectly!! Thank you for these amazing memories that you have preserved for us all.