Bind Us Together

...in Love

In mid-2009 I began a journey with Bill and Laura, knowing that this would be a blended family. They were very much seeking ways to not only celebrate their marriage to each other, but to actively include and celebrate the fact that three young boys (Shawn, Hayden, and Cooper) are part of this new family as well.

I suggested to them that they include a "Celebration of the New Family" element in the ceremony, during which they would present to the three boys a family medallion to wear around their necks. The picture at right does not do justice to the piece that includes concentric and interlocking circles, symbolizing mom, dad, and children.

Today, more than 1 in 4 marriages involve children. Many brides and grooms come together with one or more children present from previous relationships. The Family Medallion was created to assist with the need for 'family weddings' and to provide resources for supporting family commitments.

Studies show that children accept a parent's re-marriage more readily when they are included in the wedding plans, and are given a tangible symbol of being embraced by the new family. Even on a sub-conscious level, this gives the child part ownership in this new relationship.

On a beautiful day in January of this year, Hayden and Cooper walked their mom down the aisle. Shawn was best man for his dad. Bill and Laura spoke their vows to each other, and then spoke their vows to the three children. It was an occasion for smiles and tears. I had both. Looking into the faces of those three boys as their parents put the medallions around their necks was a powerful moment that gave me a lump in the throat, which I had to swallow quickly so that I could get on to the business of pronouncing Bill and Laura as husband and wife.

Bill, Laura, Shawn, Hayden and Cooper--thanks for making a memory for me.

Blessings,

Ken