Olivia and Nate

Written by Breanna. (View a few pictures here)

They met in the spring, in the picturesque northern English countryside, at a castle, the home of Capernwray Bible school. Back in the U.S., loads of miles were driven between Grand Rapids, Michigan (his home); Kentucky (her freshman year home at Asbury University; and Anderson, Indiana (her sophomore home at her Grandparents’, where she attended a community college). He spent Christmas on the couch at the same Grandparents’ home. Tim, Breanna’s sister (Elizabeth’s), then fiancé slept on the other couch! Being willing to crash on the couch at her extended family’s house with nearly all the relatives? That’s love.

Olivia at Capernwray Bible School

Olivia and Nate visited us in Kenya last February so he could experience where she grew up. They saw a few baboons, lions, friends and WE got to spend a precious few weeks together. He bunked with both her younger brothers this time, what a guy!

Olivia and Nate’s visit February 2019

We were delighted to learn that Nate is committed to a growing relationship with Christ, studying His word, and serving others. He’s generous with his time and talents and donates instruction in Tang Soo Do (he’s a fifth degree black belt!) at his friends’ martial arts studio.

The Wedding Party

The wedding was slated for the afternoon of Sunday, October 13, 2019, near Grand Rapids (Nate’s hometown), at Caledonia lakeside park.

It was a joy and relief to finally meet Nate’s family and learn that we all share a strong faith, love for Olivia and good strong coffee. Grand Rapids was balmy when I (Breanna) arrived two weeks before wedding day to help with wedding prep. I told Jerry to add tee shirts and shorts for Grace, Isaiah and Jack to their luggage. But the weather turned Michigan-y just in time for their arrival from Kenya! Olivia had hoped to have the ceremony outdoors amid the beautiful fall colored trees, but the frigid unrelenting wind during the rehearsal dictated a move indoors to the lodge-like stone and wood beam building at the park. Elizabeth lent her wedding decor greenery and lights, which together with their friend, Faith’s wedding planner eye and coordination made it magical!

Wedding rehearsal on a cool windy Michigan day

My mom and sister planned and cooked, (with lots of helping hands), a lovely pasta and salad reception dinner. Costco even kindly catered the delicious sheet cakes!

The Ushers

Olivia asked her sixteen-year-old sister, Grace to be a bridesmaid, as well as Nate’s sister, Alana, who’s also Olivia’s friend from Capernwray. Isaiah (14), and Jack (7), were dashing and very enthusiastic ushers. The ceremony was lovely and meaningful. Nate’s older sister, Ryan played classical guitar for the processional, Nate & Olivia’s pastor performed the ceremony, and they invited us and Nate’s parents, Ed & Denise, to pray over the couple as a special part of the ceremony.

The entire wedding, from proposal to “I do”, was an emotional roller coaster for me, as I’m sure it is for all parents, (especially when it’s their first-born’s wedding!) I am grateful that the overarching emotion on the wedding day and while returning to Kenya, was one of joy and contentment. Olivia’s so obviously and richly loved by Nate, and even his family, what a great blessing!