Tiffany and Martin didn’t have to worry too much about the rain on their wedding day ~ their ceremony was held under the pavilion at Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford! With plenty of room for guest seating (and the harp!) inside, everyone was able to stay dry but still have a good view of the gardens. Although the rain earlier in the day made for a humid evening, it stopped in time that they were able to stick with their original ceremony plans.
The processional to “Canon in D” began with the groom, officiant, and sponsors. The four bridesmaids made the longer walk along the pond, then around to the back of the pavilion to come down the aisle. Tiffany’s bridal processional music was “Eyes on Me” from Final Fantasy VIII.
During the ceremony, they incorporated several Filipino rituals. The bride and groom exchanged gold coins, and family sponsors covered the couple with a veil and cord. Along with the lighting of the unity candle, all of these took place with “All I Ask of You” from Phantom of the Opera playing lightly in the background.
The recessional was “Fields of Gold” by Sting, and the guests were dismissed to wander the gardens and make their way to the reception in the garden’s visitors center.
If you are planning a wedding in Rockford (or anywhere in Northern Illinois), contact me about having a harpist for your ceremony! More information on my website: Rockford Wedding Ceremony Music.
