No One Left Out

About two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of taking pictures at the wedding at the Biloxi wedding of Carla and Jeff. Karla and Jeff's wedding brought together two families. Combined, they are now the proud parents of four children. Blended families and weddings that bring them together really isn't that unusual. But, this one was a bit special in the effort that was made to make sure that all of the children were present. On the day of their wedding one of the children was not able to attend because of a prior commitment involving his school's band. Not about to leave him out, Carla and Jeff had a life size cardboard cut out made. I had been told about this before the wedding but still found it a bit surprising when I entered the church to be greeted by a very tall, smiling and waving "cardboard Chad". As part of the processional, and to the giggles of all who attended, Carla and Jeff's daughters escorted the smiling and waving Chad down the isle. Complete with a real boutonniere, Chad stood at the foot of the alter, watching has the marriage vows were exchanged. After the ceremony, Chad had his picture taken with his mom and was included in all the group photographs. Chad then rode to the family home in the back of a truck to enjoy the reception. Chad later called his mom to congratulate her. Over the phone, and looking at "cardboard Chad", she told her son that she made sure he wasn't left out of anything, to have a good time on his trip and that she loved him. Family is a wonderful thing. ~Bonnie