The Big Day--Alex and Ioana's Wedding

It was again our privilege and honor to be able to host a wedding for 2 of our kids.  Both Alex and Ioana grew up at the orphanage in Peris and graduated from our Transition program this past summer.  They asked us if we would help them to get married the right way.  It was a joy to see them go through the steps of engagement, counseling, and planning for their big day.  Neither of them had ever attended a wedding, so it was a learning experience, but everything turned out beautiful and it was a day that none of us will forget!

The 16th was the cununie, which is the civil ceremony held at the mayor's house. 

 After the cunanie we had a rehersal and decorated.

 

Aug. 17th-- The moment has arrived!  Getting dressed!

 

 Ioana was blessed to have many MOB (Mothers of the Bride)  Jenny and I got to be 2 of them!

Emi and Ruthie were the ring bearer and flower girl.  They actually walked in and did exactly what they were supposed to!  So sweet!!

 The ceremony

 The reception

What is this?  Costel actually taking a good picture!

 

 Receptions during Romanian weddings include games.  This was a version of the Newly wed game--who is more likely to....

 The atmosphere

 Ioana was only really passionate about 2 things about this wedding.  She knew she wanted to marry Alex and she wanted to dance! 

 The cake

 Cheers and Casa de Piatra!  (Casa de Piatra is a Romanian blessing which means, may your house be built on a rock)