Seattle, Part 3: Maitha and Andreas' Wedding

Maitha and I have been the best of friends since we were 11 years old. We grew up together until we headed off to college in different states and from then on out we've lived far apart (*sniff, sniff*) but have never grown apart. She's one of my oldest friends and one of my very best friends. Neither of us grew up with sisters, so I'd say we're the closest thing either of us has to a sister. We shared and experienced all the fun and silly things you do as girls growing up: clothes, make-up, hair, school, our love of Hanson, our terrible clarinet skills, boys, dances, birthday parties, travels, summer camps, school, learning to drive... the list goes on and on. We had so much fun growing up together. She was also by my side at some of the saddest times in my life like my mom's death but also my happiest times like my little brother's birth and my wedding - all monumental moments - and she was there for all of them.

I had only met Andreas once before their wedding (way back when I was first engaged and flew out to LA), but when I met him I knew there wasn't a better match for Maitha. I was so happy she found a guy that appreciates her for who she is, treats her right, and loves her unconditionally. To top it off, he has an amazing and loving family that she can now call her own, and because I love this girl like a sister, that means the world to me. I've never been so happy to see two people get married. There were some very touching speeches given, one given by Maitha herself, and I know that at times there were no dry eyes around. It was an absolutely beautiful and touching wedding.

I was so happy to get to stand up there by her side. My heart swelled with pride as I watched someone so special to me, so dear to me, get married to the love of her life. To my "sister," my friend for life: I couldn't be more thankful to have you in my life. I love you!

Could it have been any more picture-perfect?

So in love.
P.S. Jason helped build the arbor... and got verrrrry sunburned in the process. What a good man.

The whole wedding!

And I'll leave you with this lovely shot that Jason captured. 

Now that's true love. We love you both and wish you the very best!

All photos but the last one are © Melanie Duerkopp 2011 and posted with permission.