“As a little girl, I envisioned my wedding day just like many other little girls. However, I never expected the moment when I saw my daddy for the first time on that day it would be so bittersweet for me. Growing up, I had such an unexplainable bond with my dad. My parent’s divorced when I was young, but I was always ‘daddy’s little girl.’ Divorces are sometimes ugly, embarrassing, and unforgivable but I never lost faith in true love.
My dad is and always has been my biggest fan and cheerleader. The moment I saw him for the first look, I was overcome with so many emotions and tears just poured out me. I felt as if I was saying ‘see ya later’ to my best friend. I was moving to a new town, starting a life with my husband, and saying goodbye was a moment I had dreaded for so long. I was more nervous to see my dad than anyone else that day!
I did a first look with both my dad and my brother. I walked out to see their faces and I lost it. My dad reached out for me, grabbed me with a bear hug and wiped away my tears as he did for many years. My brother just laughed like a typical little brother!
The love I have for my dad is unbreakable, as we have been through many valleys and peaks together. We have overcome complete darkness and he has stood right beside me. Heartbreak is real, I was devastated after my parent’s divorce and many failed relationships in the years to come. My dad remained constant, his patience and guidance led me to where I stood in this moment. He has been my rock through it all and seeing him for the first time on my wedding reminded me of all these moments we have shared together. He was my first love.
Walking down the aisle hand in hand with my dad, I felt complete gratitude for this moment. Time stood still. My future was right in front of me. I was holding my sweet daddy and now looking at the man of my dreams in complete awe.
My soon-to-be husband was sobbing as we made eye contact. Tears were streaming down his face.
My dad turned and looked at me. He said, ‘Look at Hunter. He truly loves you Paige.’ Wow. The two men that meant the most to me were sharing this moment together. All my fears, worries, and apprehensions for my life after seemed to go away in this moment.
Hunter is exactly what I prayed for. All the emotions I was feeling, all I could think was, ‘He is my safe haven. He is my home.’
My dad said, ‘This is what I always wanted for you. I love you.’
What I know is this: sometimes love stories aren’t perfect. Sometimes your path is one you never imagined having to walk down. Disappointment, heartbreak, and failure. They may add up to seem like there is no chance for happiness again. I’ve learned from my own experiences that those events are actually life’s way of providing shelter for your heart; a way of steering you towards the life that’s meant for you. The sun will rise again, your heart will smile again, and you will make room for the love you truly deserve.
My photographer captured this perfectly and I cried all over again seeing these photos. These photos are raw, real, and show true emotion. I will never be able to thank her enough.
This story was submitted to Love What Matters by Paige Price, 23, of Glasgow, Kentucky. Submit your story here, and subscribe to our best love stories here.
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