Time to be Courageous

Photo by Christine Tremoulet

I'm in the business of flowers. Duhh, right? The first thing you might think of is "beauty", while others (like my amazing husband) might think "allergies". ;) Sorry babe!

More specifically, I'm in the business of wedding and special event flowers. While we do other things, the majority of our business involves weddings and related events. Now, what's the first thing you think of? Love? Passion? Princesses? The splendor of that magical moment? Forever after in happily married bliss?

I want to share something from my heart. Too often I'm reminded that the focus of the months leading up to a wedding are on the beauty and painstaking details that go into the one-day event, and not on the lifetime of togetherness that should come afterwards. In other words, we need to prepare for the marriage - not just the wedding.

Now don't get me wrong, I absolutely *love* weddings, receptions, and everything about them! Particularly the flowers and the decor. After all, it's why I'm in this business! But after having dinner with a friend recently, I've been reminded of the extreme importance of the sanctity of marriage. My husband and I hold our own marriage tightly, guarding it close to our hearts, and remembering that keeping God in first place in our lives (and marriage) is crucial. I'm reminded of a song I heard recently, you can see the video below:




I'm renewing my commitment to pray for all the couples, and families that cross paths with us. For the husband- and wife-to-be to pause and think about the covenant they are entering into, and to have the courage to stand and fight for their marriage, long after the wedding. When money gets tight, or a job is lost. When an argument arises that seems without end. When unthinkable difficulties surround you. Praying that your marriage is be a safe place, with your partner as your protector and confidant, like no other. There's a strength found within those safe walls that I can attest to, and I want that for all of our couples as well.

Father's Day is approaching, and I've come across a new song and music video that I believe applies not just to fathers, but to marriage as well. Take a moment and listen:



Your wedding will be beautiful! (especially with Petals by Design involved!) But I also want your marriage to be beautiful as well. So I encourage you - don't be afraid or indifferent - BE COURAGEOUS!!