In a previous post, I shared the story of Patrick’s and my engagement during a vacation in Destin, Florida. It was a magical moment, and it only seemed fitting to return to the same beautiful place for our wedding the following year.
Coordinating schedules with our kids is always a juggling act, and this time was no exception. Two of our kids drove down with us, one flew in, and another drove separately. While my family couldn’t make the trip, we were grateful to have Patrick’s two brothers, sister-in-law, niece, and nephew join us for this special occasion.
A Flying Surprise
Patrick has always been fascinated by flying, and his dream of earning a pilot’s license is something we hope to achieve someday (perhaps after a lucky lottery win!). To honor his love of aviation, I surprised him early in the trip with a seaplane flight over Destin. Seeing his excitement made my heart soar.
Rainy Mornings and Tattoos
The morning of the wedding brought rain and clouds, so the beach day we had planned was off the table. Patrick and his brother decided to take the kids out for tattoos instead—though only one of our kids, a friend, and Patrick’s brother ended up getting inked. While they were gone for hours, I enjoyed a rare and peaceful day alone at the condo.
A Dinner to Remember
We decided to tie the knot on the beach, just a few blocks away at our favorite restaurant. We headed there for dinner before the ceremony, with Patrick and the guys going ahead to secure a spot on the waitlist (they don’t take reservations). The rest of us walked down later, with Patrick’s niece and nephew in tow.
I wore my wedding dress—a $99 David’s Bridal find that fit me perfectly (a stroke of luck since it was non-returnable). As we strolled, cars and golf carts honked and cheered, adding an unexpected layer of joy to the evening.
A Ceremony That Felt Like Us
Patrick isn’t a fan of dressing up, so his one request was to wear shorts and a ball cap. I was completely on board—our wedding was about celebrating us. The ceremony was simple and deeply personal. We chose not to use traditional vows, as they didn’t resonate with us, and instead wrote our own heartfelt promises.
I, PATRICK, vow to keep you, TAMMY as my favorite person – to laugh with you, go on adventures with you, support you through life’s tough moments, be proud of you, grow old with you, and find new reasons to love you every day.
I, TAMMY, vow to keep you, PATRICK as my favorite person – to laugh with you, go on adventures with you, support you through life’s tough moments, be proud of you, grow old with you, and find new reasons to love you every day.
After the ceremony, Patrick’s oldest brother presented me with their family tartan sash in a touching gesture. He warmly welcomed me and my children into their family, promising love and protection. It was a moment I’ll cherish forever.
A Walk to Remember
As the evening wrapped up, Patrick and I decided to walk back to the condo along the beach, while everyone else took the boardwalk. Hand in hand, we passed strangers who stopped to congratulate us and even offered celebratory drinks.
With the sound of the waves accompanying us, we reflected on the day. For something that required so little planning, it turned out to be exactly what we wanted.
The Perfect Wedding
Patrick’s son summed it up best when he said he felt our wedding was the way all weddings should be—simple, genuine, and filled with love.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change a single thing. Our wedding wasn’t just a ceremony; it was a celebration of who we are, surrounded by those who matter most to us. Destin, once again, gave us a day we’ll never forget.
Here’s to simple beginnings and perfect days that remind us of what truly matters.
Tammy's Tidbits 
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