Darryl & Amanda | Greenville Wedding

We get the same question a lot.

Sometimes it sounds like this: “How do you come up with things to write for every single blog post?” Other times it’s more like this: “Isn’t it hard to come up with things to say about all of those couples?”

The truth is this: There is always something good to say about every single couple. You just find the good! So, to us, it’s really not hard at all!

But sometimes, our words are not enough. And that’s the case today. We love Darryl & Amanda to death! They have been our biggest supporters since we met them earlier this year! They are two of the kindest people you could ever meet. Here’s a little personal backstory on Amanda. We hope she won’t mind us sharing because we believe it’s a story of true hope.

Amanda was raised in a single parent home by her saint of a mother. If you met her mother, you would fall in love with her immediately, no doubt! Amanda’s father left the picture when Amanda was just 5 years old. But Amanda turned out to be the smartest, kindest, hardest-working woman! Just like her mom. And, as you can imagine, Amanda and her mother are the best of friends. We tell you that backstory because, instead of our words, we want to share the moving speech Amanda’s mother gave during the reception. If you weren’t crying during this one, you need to check your heart!

Without further ado, Amanda’s mother…

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“When I found out I was going to have a baby I was overjoyed. I said, “God, if it is your will, could you please make her a baby girl,” and He did! By the time she was a toddler, I knew she was going to be my strong willed child. She was full of spunk, smart, outspoken, an overachiever, independent, and never afraid to speak her mind. Darryl, you do realize what you’re getting?!

But as time went on I thought, “God, could you make her just a little more like you” and He did. She is loving and kind and caring. She has a servant’s heart. She has devoted her whole life to becoming a doctor. She has a compassion and a dedication to serve others. But still with all this, something was missing. So I said, “God, please make her happy.” And then…she met you, Darryl. You truly are an answer to prayer.

Amanda, I am so happy you found your soulmate, your partner and love of your life. The name Amanda means ‘to be loved’ and Darryl, I already know Amanda will be so very loved by you as I have already seen the countless ways you show your love and devotion to her. Kevin & Linda, thank you for raising such a wonderful son. Thank you for giving him beautiful examples of how to live, love, laugh, forgive and forget, and persevere. He is who he is because of your great love. And for that I am so very grateful.

Amanda & Darryl, never both be angry at the same time. Never yell at each other…unless the house is on fire! Darryl, learn the phrase “yes dear” and never laugh at Amanda’s choices – you were one of them. If one of you has to win an argument, let it be your mate. Neglect the whole world but never each other. At least once a day say one kind thing to one another. Keep the romance going, have date night. Never forget to have fun and be thoughtful. The little things really do mean a lot.

Love isn’t perfect. And it’s not a fairytale. And it doesn’t always come easy. Love is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, holding on to each other and never letting go. It is a short word, easy to spell, difficult to define, and impossible to live without. Love is work, but most of all it is realizing that every hour, every minute, every second of it was worth it because you did it together.

Amanda, I feel incredibly lucky and blessed that you are my daughter and my very best friend. Now that you are grown, I may not hold your hand each day but I will always hold your heart. Darryl, today I’m handing Amanda over to you. Take care of my baby girl.

I believe when God first imagined you both, He imagined you together. I know you both are the absolutely best for each other and I could not be any happier than I am right now. May God bless your marriage with joy and a lifetime of love. I love you both with all my heart.”

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We’re not crying…sniff sniff. Not at all! And we can’t follow that up. Not even close. So all we will say is this. Darryl & Amanda, you guys were clearly meant to be. We suggest you take the time to read that speech every once in a while and remember what really matters in life! Enjoy this preview of the best day of your lives! More to come soon! Love you guys!!!

Bride’s Wedding Dress – Ellis Bridals from Mecklenburg Bridal Gallery
Bridesmaid Dresses – Emma Bridals from Mecklenburg Bridal Gallery
Bride’s jewelry – Tiffany & Co.
Bride’s shoes – Katie & Kelly
Caterer – Ryan Nicholas Inn
Cake – Gigi’s Cupcakes
Ceremony Decor – Linda Brauss
Ceremony Venue – St. Mary Magdelene Catholic Church
DJ – Cliff Field
Floral Design – Willow Florals
Groom’s apparel – Vera Wang from Men’s Wearhouse
Groomsmen’s apparel – Vera Wang from Men’s Wearhouse
Hair Stylist – Cotton Rouge
Invitations – Wedding Paper Divas
Makeup Artist – Cotton Rouge
Photographers – Ryan & Alyssa Photography
Priest – Fr. Mike Boyle
Reception Venue – Ryan Nicholas Inn
Wedding Coordinator – Kim Becherer

To see more of our Greenville wedding photography, click here!