by: Reminiscent of "Casablanca" or "An Affair to Remember" we have a classic love story of our own to share with you today! It's the story of how Lydia and Willie--after 20 years of separation--reconnected their relationship and rekindled their love. Now married, here's their reunion story and real wedding that will surely tug on your heart strings. For Lydia and Willie, it's their journey of love, patience and contentment. It's their happily ever after and we couldn't be happier for them!
And I have to say, that Lydia is probably the sweetest person on the planet. Just saying. Enjoy.
Wedding Colors: Ivory, Wisteria, Champagne with a touch of Silver
Theme: Two hearts led by love. 20 years later, two lives joined forever.
Wedding Style: Traditional-Christian
Highlight of the Day:
Willie: Seeing the joy and happiness on Lydia's face. Watching Lydia say "I do" and giving me our wedding kiss.
Lydia: Seeing Willie at the altar waiting for me.
from Lydia ...
"Our story begins with my very best childhood girl friend, Lorita. We had gone to a local club one Friday evening and while sitting at the table talking, this very handsome man came up and spoke to her ... well, we ended up talking, laughing and dancing all evening, and by the last dance we had exchanged information.We started dating and our relationship grew.
Willie was in the Army Reserve--a Staff Sergeant and moving up the ranks. It was 1990. We didn't know then--that when Willie left for his two-week annual training, he would be leaving again for a lot longer ... Willie was mobilized for Desert Shield {which later became Desert Storm}. We lost contact with each other and that time--turned into years.
Many years later and on my way into the court building where I worked, I asked a friend who I knew was in the Army Reserve, if he knew a person named Willie Conley. He said "yes, he's my best friend (brother) why do you ask?" My reply to him was the next time he talked to Willie--to tell him that I said "hello". Well Al Baylor did one better, he called Willie and handed me the telephone.
We talked for a few minutes and exchanged numbers again. Willie came over Christmas evening, 2010. When I opened the door, our journey began ... "
The wedding: August 20, 2011
Lydia being walked down the aisle by her brother.
Advice we'd like to give:
Take your contract and go over it several times--even have someone else read it--to make sure you are getting exactly what you and your fiance' want.
Best Part of the Day:
Watching our family and friends have a good time at our reception. My husband and I danced all night.
Advice I'm glad I took:
My florist had me use silk flowers instead of real flowers--since it was so hot in August.
*Willie and Lydia honored 4 of their deceased loved ones through the ivory flowers in Lydia's bouquet: 2 representing Lydia's daughter and father and 2 representing Willie's parents.
The funniest part of the day ...
was when I had to repeat my vows after my minister. Instead of saying "I, Lydia" I said, "I, Willie" Everyone broke out laughing! So, that is our private joke among our close church friends.
Vendor List
Ceremony: AME Zion Church, Southfield, MI Reception: Mother of God Church
Officiant: Rev. Al C. Hamilton
Photographer: Harold Harris, H.J.H Enterprise
Florist: Yvette Noble, City Mertro Florist
Limo Service:Alston Limo
Coordinator: Bridget Irby of Pretty Pink Petals
Save the Dates, Invitation Suite, Thank Yous: MagnetStreet Weddings
Lydia and Willie personalized Timeless Love Save the Date Magnet, Flower Flourish Wedding Invitation, and Green Hue Thank You Card.
Congratulations Lydia and Willie! We're so glad you found each other again. Thank you for sharing your sweet story with the world. May joy, peace and blessings be yours--always!
xo
