Thank goodness for waterproof make-up. The tears prick against my eyes as I take in my friend.
“You’re absolutely stunning!” I whisper in her ear when it’s my turn to hug her.
“Thank you! I’m so happy you’re here by my side.” She whispers during the embrace.
We make our way to the ceremony venue. A bright and airy conservatory. The party bus rivals our nights in Nashville. The energy and excitement of the day doing more than this morning’s expensive lattes.
As we await our cues to start the procession. I can’t help but admire at the space. I saw it earlier when we dropped off the decorations but now that it’s all together I can’t help but marvel at it all. The domed ceiling offers a glimpse into the heavens above. A pristine white runner splits the seating into the traditional bride and groom side. The archway where Vi and Phoenix will pledge their love and eternal devotion to each other is flanked by two of the most exquisite floral arrangements I have ever seen. Clouds of white and cream, composed of hydrangeas, roses, and delicate stems of white lilac, accentuated by bursts of fresh, vibrant greenery. The arrangements frame the area perfectly, and I just know they will make for stunning photos.
The music begins, a soft string quartet, our signal to proceed. I take the groomsman’s arm, Vi’s younger brother, and take the slow measured steps toward the altar.
That’s when I see him.
Archer.
He is already seated in the second row, just off the aisle, looking impossibly large and solid among the guests. He wears a perfectly tailored navy suit, looking more handsome than any man has the right to be. He’s seated next to Ty and Sadie. My parents are seated behind them. Mom’s in the gorgeous greendress that she wore for Easton’s wedding and Dad’s in his suit from Stella’s wedding.
As I near them, my smile which I had plastered on my face for photos, turns real and genuine. Archer meets my eyes, that deep blue that I know better than my own, lock onto mine. His face breaks into an enormous, unmistakable beam. It is wide and genuine, full of pride, the kind of smile that crinkles the corners of his eyes and makes my stomach flip.
I take my place at the altar with the other bridesmaids, my gaze fixed on the doors, a shared silence settles amongst all the guests. I look at Archer one last time; before the orchestra bursts forth with the majestic opening notes of the traditional bridal march.
The doors swing open.
Vi appears.
She is breathtaking, perfectly melding that bridal elegance with her unique, vibrant self. The gown is a masterpiece of romantic bohemian design: an intricate ivory creation featuring an off-the-shoulder neckline framed by delicate lace that blooms across her bodice. Long, sheer tulle sleeves are adorned with tiny lace flowers, giving her an almost ethereal grace. The skirt falls in a sleek, elegant line, covered in floral embroidery. She is every bit the fairy princess she wanted to be.
Her signature rainbow hair is styled perfectly. It is gathered back into an intricate, woven braid and low bun that keeps her hair swept neatly away from her face. Her veil is simple, as to not take away from the stunning vision she is in her dress.
She doesn’t just walk; she floats down the aisle, toward Phoenix, toward her happily ever after.
Phoenix goes first, speaking with open emotion about how Vi is his balance, his greatest adventure, and the calming force he didn’t know he needed. He promises to always support her artistic passion and never let her eat sauerkraut again.
Vi, the more outspoken of the two, beams through happy tears. She vows to be his constant advocate, his fiercest defender, and the one who reminds him to take a break. She tells him he makes her feel seen, safe, and wildly loved, and she promises him forever.
The rings are exchanged, followed by the most enthusiastic, beautiful first kiss. Phoenix has Vi in a low dip, her arm extended high in the air with a fist bump earning many chuckles and a few whistles from the crowd.
“I present to you, for the very first time, Mr. and Mrs. Sterling!”
The crowd erupts. Everyone is on their feet, clapping and cheering, the string quartet swells into a joyous rendition of Canon in D as Vi and Phoenix make their way up the aisle.
I follow them out, once more on the arm of Vi’s brother.
After all the photos are taken, I am more than readyfor the cocktail hour.
The reception hall is magnificent, draped in strings of tiny, warm lights that reflect off the polished dance floor.
The toasts are a blur of heartfelt and tender moments. Vi’s dad tells an embarrassingly sweet story from her childhood. Iris delivers a witty, emotional matron-of-honor speech that gets a standing ovation. Finally, Phoenix’s best man roasts him mercilessly before ending on a sincere note about their friendship.
As the cake is cut and the music shifts from background jazz to a pulsing beat that signals the start of the open dance floor.
“My turn,” Archer says, his grin wide and genuine.
He sweeps me onto the dance floor. Our moves are better, more fluid, and steadier than the last time we danced. He spins me, his eyes full of laughter.
We spend the rest of the evening almost inseparable. Parting only briefly for the bouquet toss which falls directly into my hands. Earning a whistle from Ty and a blush from Archer. My mom’s cheer is loud and clear, drowning out my own laughter.
The music starts up again, a slow sweeping song. Archer takes my hand and leads me to the dance floor. His arms wrapped around me as we sway to the music and this right here? This is where I could spend forever. In his arms, surrounded by those I love.
