For both Ashley and Anna, this was their second marriage. They had met very unexpectedly in China, but this chance meeting quickly grew into a loving relationship. Through patience and at times separation, they both knew that they wanted to commit to each other for the rest of their lives as husband and wife. Their journey to get here was an interesting one. Anna had to fulfill her legal obligations back in Vietnam to allow her to marry again. But this is a person who was prepared to do everything correctly to ensure that her wedding would proceed as planned. And so we found ourselves at the top of Mount Dandenong in Victoria, with the urban sprawl of Melbourne as the backdrop.
What made this wedding so special for me was that Ashley is my Brother-in-Law from my previous marriage. So when he asked if I would marry them, I was naturally thrilled. When I first met Anna, I could see why they had bonded as a couple so quickly. It was so evident how “smitten” Ashley and Anna were with each other!
When Ashley arrived at the SkyHigh venue, he looked both relaxed and nervous at the same time. How did I know….because I had to fix his tie! Anna was “fashionably late” but the wait was worth it. She looked stunning as she walked towards her groom and was even more nervous than him. The ceremony was short and sweet, but said everything that it needed to say. I always get a kick out of seeing couples “nail it” in the end! After signing the Marriage Register, it was time for photos and then a beautiful and intimate wedding reception that I and my wife had the privilege to be a part of.
Congratulations Ashley and Anna and we all wish you a wonderful future together!
Peter Blades
Religious Marriage Celebrant Gold Coast