Emily Valentine Green Bay Photo: Jesse & Ben Wedding

The Heritage Hill Chapel erupted in cheers and applause as Ben kissed Jesse at the grand finale of their wedding ceremony. I have no words to adequately explain the beauty and whimsy of this marriage but to share actual excerpts from their wedding (written by their friends Patrick and Valerie, provided by Jesse), enjoy:

"Ben...Jesse...when I think of you both, I think of treasured friendship, warm hugs, long and winding conversations, inside jokes, car sing alongs, your love for dogs, and laughter...

"But most of all, I think of YOUR joyful steadfast love FOR EACH OTHER that is unafraid to be goofy, vulnerable, and inclusive of others."

(quick detour from the wedding transcript, Jesse is a talented stylist at Savoye Salon in Howard. So cool to see her gather some major local talent from her circle of friends for her gorgeous hair and makeup!)

"Beloved friends and family, thank you for coming together in love and support of the union between Ben and Jesse. Today their love grows stronger, their bond more deeply entwined."

"[their] love is filled with mutual respect enthusiasm for enjoying life, and patience...."

"It is a love that accepts you unconditionally for who you are, gives you an affectionate nickname, and welcomes you in for a conversation peppered with a unique blend of laughter and sincerity..."

"But this is not just a celebration for the two of you; it is a celebration for all of us blessed to gather here today"

"It is an opportunity to bear witness to this historic moment"

"Some of us HERE TODAY have known Ben and Jesse since they came into the world. Some of us are newer additions to their life journey--friends from school, work, or (I'm assuming) Titletown Brewing Company."

"Ben and Jesse, as you look out into this sea of faces know that we have all gathered here in love to celebrate this tender yet powerful moment."

"We have been blessed to watch your relationship bloom into something unique and lovely--know that the love you have shown us will be reflected back to you"

"As you embark on this journey together, we offer you an old Irish blessing: May God be with you and bless you. May you see your children's children. May you be poor in misfortunes and rich in blessings. May you know nothing but happiness from this day forward."