I’ve never been “father of the bride” before, but it was a joyful experience.  Taylor is exactly the type of young man every father hopes his daughter will bring home.   We’ve  watched Taylor’s and Anna’s love for each other grow over the last two years.  As a matter of fact, the wedding was exactly two years after their first date.

We’re proud to welcome Taylor into our family and appreciate the acceptance Anna feels from Taylor’s family.  We’re also thankful for the support of their wonderful circle of friends.

Ashton-Scott Home in Scott, AR

Originally built in the early 1800s.

The location was excellent.  We did find it a little funny that most doors wouldn’t close due to settling of the old home.

The rental included access to all serving dishes, kitchen, dressing areas, and the grounds.

The rehearsal was a fun experience for everyone.

Pastor Matt Carpenter had a relaxed and worshipful approach to the rehearsal which worked well.  The band had a humorous approach which also worked well but made us wonder what songs they would actually be playing.  During the ceremony, they were pros all the way.  The music was beautiful and in good taste.

The band

Rehearsal dinner was a relaxing time with great food (especially the grilled chicken).

The 79-year old owner of the home commented that the meal was better than most she had seen catered.  A friend of the couple grilled chicken.  Everything was delicious!  We noticed the homeowner talking the chef out of his chicken recipe.

Preparing the rehearsal dinner. The homeowner is picking up a new recipe from the grill master.

Rachel and her husband with Anna’s sister, Christen standing near.

Pastor Matt mentioned that Rachel and Anna were inseparable when they arrived at UCA.  They both became involved in missions and grew tremendously.  What Matt didn’t know was that Rachel and Anna were actually inseparable since sixth grade when Anna arrived in Alma.

Notice the Off on the table (a necessity).

Amazing group of young people.

Beginning the long walk with my beautiful Anna. Suzy Ferguson took this picture.

A parting hug before giving Anna to Taylor. Photo by Elizabeth Sneed

Parents, grandparents, and relatives looking on during the ceremony. Photo by Elizabeth Sneed

Photo by Elizabeth Sneed

Anna and the bridesmaids. Christen, Anna’s sister, is fourth from the left.

I left all cameras and my cell phone in the car for the duration of the wedding ceremony.  Afterwards, I rushed to the car, grabbed my camera, and caught some pictures as the groups posed for photographer Elizabeth Sneed.  She was a friend of the couple and did a great job.  I stayed out of her way and caught pics where I could.  I mentioned to her that this seemed to have much in common with wildlife photography.

Lizzie, the photographer, asked for a silly pose.

Garrett, Taylor’s older brother, taking pictures of Taylor and his friends.

It was great to see a group of young men so supportive of each other.  Several of them had been friends with Taylor since childhood.

Wedding reception.

Wedding reception.

Pleased that both parties had grandparents present.

Pops (standing), Taylor’s grandfather, was telling Anna’s grandparents about his six-dollar wedding which has lasted 50+years.  Anna’s grandfather shared a nickel phone call with his college roommate so they could ask two girls out at once.  He and Anna’s grandmother often comment that they got all of this for a nickel.  They’ve been married 63 years.

A big thank you to Aunt Martha and Larry for helping Anna’s grandparents get to the wedding.  Meant a lot to us all to have them there.

Lucy and Aunt Missy made the drive from Dallas for the wedding.

Bridesmaids and groomsmen helped in many ways.

Some of those in attendance didn’t think these bridesmaids should have access to sharp utensils.  Everyone seemed to have a task and know what their responsibilities were.  This wedding was very much centered on the organization and work of the many young people who participated.  Great team and fun to watch!

Tossing the bouquet.

Venusa, Anna’s friend in Alma and at UCA, can be seen reaching for the bouquet on the front row.  It was a treat to see some of Anna’s long-time friends. We were thankful that she found a positive peer group when she arrived at Alma in the 6th grade.  Lots of lasting friendships!

Posing for pictures with the groom.

Games were a hit at the reception.

Time for dancing and some silliness, too.

Anna and Taylor Lucas

Photo by Elizabeth Sneed