*** Hey ladies, this is Melissa . . . I added a couple of additional pictures to the bottom of this post. My favorite is obviously the one where the entire Living Proof Staff is throwing up gang signs . . . I mean, A.A.V. (All About Vangie) Signs. Classic LPM ***
Hey, Siestaville! How are all of you? We have had quite the whirlwind weekend! Hawk (Michelle) and I had the great joy of serving at the Desperate For Jesus women’s conference at Dr. Tony Evan’s fine church in Dallas alongside speaker Tara Jenkins. (Oh my word, I loved getting to know her. God is raising up such wonderful and powerful young women to serve this and the next generation. We’re in good hands, Sisters.) My dear friend, Priscilla Shirer (Dr. Tony and Dr. Lois Evan’s daughter and one of our favorite Bible study teachers/writers on earth) emceed the event and I love any time I get to spend with her. I had a blast with the women who attended just like I knew I would. They don’t just listen to the Word around Oak Cliff. They participate in the Word. Groups don’t get better than that one.
I finished my second session late Saturday morning, threw the baton into Tara’s able hands and took a run for the airport. Hawk and I had a huge event to attend back in Houston and we’d make it by the skin of our teeth. Even the least weather delay would have caused us to miss it. When we got to DFW, the Houston flight prior to ours was delayed and the one after ours was canceled but we sailed out of there on the everlasting arms of God and made it to the church on time.
Since you got to meet my dear friend and coworker, Evangeline Harris, a few weeks ago on our second SSBS video greeting and knew we had a wedding on the horizon, I thought it was only fair to let you know that our Vangie is now (drum roll please) Mrs. Darren Williams. (I think I heard trumpets in the distance just then.) The wedding was BEAUTIFUL! Our bride was an absolute vision and her groom was so handsome. The chapel was full of family and friends who cheered them on to the altar after a courtship fit for a Lifetime movie. Both of them have long histories with God and each loves Jesus more than anything on earth. Isn’t that the ultimate? It was truly the culmination of two great stories into one fabulous book.
Evangeline has nine – count them, NINE – brothers and sisters and, yes, all from the same set of (courageous…and maybe tired) parents. She honored me so much by asking if I’d take part in the ceremony. As I addressed them both during the service, I told Darren that he had no idea what all he’d inherit when he fell in love with Vangie. Not only did he instantly have 11 in-laws and all their spouses. He had all of us at LPM who are as thick as blood with his new wife. I told him he’d just inherited 15 lily white women, some of whom attempt to take the edge off with self-tanner. But I’ll not say who. Let me just say I was among the tanner ones at the wedding. Thank you, L’Oreal.
Needless to say, the LPM staff was there with few exceptions and in rare form. (Curtis graciously babysat so Amanda could come without a preschooler and a toddler who would have added considerable color and volume to the whole affair). Both Diane and Kimberly on our staff were bridesmaids alongside other close loved ones of Vangie’s. Both of them bawled their heads off during the ceremony. It was emotional for all of us because we’ve all been on hand every single day of this sweet romance since their Sunday school teacher, Lisa Weir (also a good friend of ours), introduced them at our church last year. Our Vangie had held out for the right man for 20 years of adulthood and I don’t mind saying it paid off.
Nancy, another of our LPM sisters and my close friend of 20 years, did a Scripture reading so she was sitting on the pew beside me, right by the piano. (Do you guys like these kinds of details?? Sorry if you don’t. You can proceed right to the pictures if you’re rocking back and forth with frustration.) Right before I went onto the platform to speak over the couple, Nancy leaned over to me and said, “We’ve done a lot of things together at LPM but this one may have to be at the very top.”
I looked at her and said, “Yes, indeed.” This was the first time we had actually ever married someone off. Michelle (AKA Hawk) better run for her life before we start thinking we’re on a roll. I told you several weeks ago in the greeting where I introduced the bride that we made up hand motions to “All About Vangie.” And, yes, we did them 100 times at the wedding. That morning, all of us traded texts that had just three letters in them: “AAV!” I don’t think it would be all that hard to change the hand motions from AAV to AAM. Be afraid, Michelle. Be very, very afraid.
OK, OK, I’ll shut up and let you see some pictures Amanda snapped at the wedding for our LPM photo library. She didn’t take many so she wouldn’t impose on the professional photographer but I think you’ll enjoy the ones we have.
I’m thinking she must have taken this one before the ceremony while everybody was waiting and I was already in the Greenroom with Vangie. This is my man and our Bible study/event coordinator Jennifer Hamm’s man, respectively Keith and Chad. Yes, Keith has on Wranglers. He wore Wranglers to Melissa’s reception, too. Vangie didn’t care. She loves that Keith Moore.
This was one of the best wedding cakes I’ve ever tasted. I didn’t get a chance to ask Vangie who baked it. She was pretty busy.
The foyer at our church had been transformed for the reception into Vintage Vangie. Her good taste was everywhere. Honestly, I’ve never seen the foyer more beautiful. Everything was either white, black or hot pink. Here are some goodies:
A little wider shot so you can get the idea:
Yours truly with the bride and groom! I love them both so much. (That’s a side clip of sorts if you’re wondering what’s going on with my hair. I tried something new. Not sure it works out of the context. Maybe not even in it. If you weren’t wondering, forget that I brought that up. It was otherwise a very Spiritual evening.)
The B and G cutting that gorgeous cake:
Vangie and Lisa Weir.
Stunning Bride.
Living Proof Staff with the Bride. Again. It’s ALL. ABOUT. VANGIE.
Vangie and Darren are off on their honeymoon in San Diego for the week. You can imagine how abuzz LPM will be when she gets back to us. She only had one request of us when she left: “Don’t talk about anything fun till I get back!”
Oh, Vangie. We talked about something fun today all right. We talked about YOU. We just can’t help ourselves. We’re AAV.
I just love it when we women love all over each other!! I love that you and your staff are like tht with each other! I guess I am just feeling AAV today too! Blessings to Vangie and Darren!!!!
Oh, by the way Siesta’s, My very first grandchild was born last week. Landon Cameron Menard!! He is just the cutest little thing you ever saw! I know every grandmother says it, but it is true! Please keep him in your prayers. I just pray he comes to know the Lord and stays close to him all his life!
Lori
When God writes your love story it is always well done. I have considered writing a book of that title but that’s another story.
Thanks for sharing the pictures of the beautiful wedding with Siestaville. We were all waiting with glorious anticipation. Desiring God’s best for a long and happy life together filled with lots of passion for our Lord and each other. Congratulations Darren & Vangie.
Ms. Beth,
Thank you so much for your teaching at the DFJC in Dallas. It was amazing to see all the hands that were raised when you asked who had a storm in their life right now. Thanks to you and the conviction of the Holy Spirit there is one less storm in Arkansas. Being a pastor’s wife I have heard that story so many times, but it never touched me like it did this weekend. Just wanted to say thanks. I’m praying for you and the storm you are dealing with.
What fun! How special for Vangie to get to share this day with such special people. She was indeed a beautiful bride. You are all very blessed to have each other and to have such awesome friends “to do life with”!!
Thank you for sharing!
Great pics…..why do we think we KNOW all of you??? Maybe it is because we do…vicariously maybe, but we know you!!
Can you just imagine the fun in heaven????? Wwwhhhooo Whhhheee!!! Thanks for ALL the details!!! Love it Love it Love it!!
Blessings to all
Bible Bunny in NO MI
Lovely – just lovely!
Doesn’t every woman love the details of a wedding. Sounds like you were at the Potter’s House. Mazel Tov to Vangie and Darren!
All the single ladies ( I’m singing this…)
We had a wonderful lady at our church that didn’t get married until 62 years young! She met a widower at the bowling alley and they were married 12 or so years before he passed away…she was glad to have waited that long too….she lived many wonderful and busy days before meeting Boyd as well.
I have to say too that the ladies of our church gave her a wedding shower to end all showers and BOY OH BOY was it a hoot! Boyd accused us of trying to give him a heart attack with some of the gifts we gave Sarah….hehehehe…still makes me laugh..
Beth:
Don’t worry about sharing details… honestly, I’m surprised at how much you tell us sometimes. I love feeling like I’m part of the LPM family. I LOVE WEDDINGS AND NEW BABIES AND DOG STORIES… ALL YOU SHARE!
Congrads to Vangie and Darren.
I love all your side thoughts – so glad I don’t have a type A personality! (But I do love those who do – we help balance each other out!)
Congrats Miss (Mrs.) Vangie!!!
Beth I love you, you never fail to entertain us. I found the wedding blog rather humorous and almost like I was actually there since there was lots of details…my favorite was how proud you all were at marrying them off. Its quite the accomplishment. Congrats Vangie:) P.S I personally liked the side clip in your hair, I probably might not have noticed had you not mentioned it but its a stunning look for you. Have a blessed week.
Andrea
Congratulations Vangie!!!!
Thanks for sharing the pics, made me almost feel like I was there….loved seeing the decorated entryway….to think I was actually there in Jan. at siestaville.
Sweet Jesus, our Saviour, our Faithful Friend!
AS you can see I have been making my way down the comments. Can I just say, I love you all so much? My life is blessed and enriched by this fellowship even if it is virtual, its still real! Congratulations Vangie and her man!
Conratulation to the LUCKY BRIDE and GROOM Love the Pictures All your pictures are always so good
Would like to know what kind of camera takes such good pictures????? The cake was out of this world just beautiful!!!!!! Thanks Beth for all the details!!
Looking forward to Lexington KY!!!!!
Always,
Darlene
I adore how precious you all are with one another! The A.A.V. sign etc… just makes me smile! : )
I have had “All about Vangie” going through my head since I saw your cute interview with her on the SSBS video!
Vangie, I don’t know if you will read this because you are on your “honeymoon” (how fun!) I prayed for you on your big day! Praying for you now as I type! You are a beautiful bride! I am just thrilled for you both! God Bless- Emmy : )
(P.S.I am going to have to borrow the “All About” sign! My little girl has been away at camp and when I pick her up tomorrow I am going to sign! A.A. you M!” She is going to love it!)
Oh Evangeline, You look GORGEOUS!!!! So Radiant! How I love the LORD and HIS WAYS…this blessed me so! I just have to say again, how happy and thankgul to the LORD for you and your wonderful marriage. HE IS SO GOOD!!!
BEAUTIFUL!!!! It seems a fitting close to studying Ruth together, that a wedding would be the perfect way to end it!!! Thanks for sharing with us in siestaville!!! And Congrads!!!!
Great point!
That is a neat thought Holly, timely end to the Ruth story, a wedding. Cograts to the beautiful bride and her groom. I enjoyed the pictures I felt like I was there too.
I just had to post this for you ladies. A friend sent it to me and I thought of all us moms here at Siestaville, as well as the journey that Vangie has just begun and that she may very well be a mom herself one day!
I hope you all love this as much as I did. (I work from home, so I’m also a stay-at-home mom…this is especially poignant for those moms) Hope you enjoy my sweet siesta sisters!!! (the very end actually made me get teary eyed…it IS worth it)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqbkT3PnwkQ&feature=related
Girl, that is absolutely Hysterical! The broom air guitar was more that I could take. Laughed my head off.
Thank you, Kristi
I have a question that maybe Beth could address in a different post…
I have always wondered and been afraid to ask why in some books of the bible they refer to Christ as “Jesus Christ”? and in others it is “Christ Jesus”
I am not sure where to ask this so it does not show up on this post. I don’t want to take away from Vangie in the least.
I would be willing to ask it somewhere else if you would show me how.
Thank you.
I LOVE WEDDINGS!! Congrats on a God ordained day!! What God does on the other side of the vows is stunning Vangie! I am celebrating my 1 year wedding anniversary this weekend and I have loved every second! Enjoy this newlywed time!!
LPM looks like the place to be, glad we get a dose of it on this blog!!!
Congratulations, Kristin. In some ways that first year can be the hardest: most transitions, adjustments; you don’t yet know how to effectively “read” your spouse.
And today’s my 21st anniversary. By God’s mercy, it has actually gotten better each year. With examples set for me, I didn’t realize that was possible. But with God all things are possible.
Gotta go do my hair for our date tonight 😉 I think extra hair products are called for don’t you?
God’s many blessings to you and your hubby!
__This is alittle off the record, but I was watching James Robinson today where you talking about “heartbreak”
and it just seem to touch my heart. I wonder how many people are sitting at home with some kind of heartbreak and maybe crying their heart out.
I know it hurt me very deeply when I received a phone call from my sister who had three little children and she told me she was getting a divorce. Just those words go through you like a knife, just thinking about it hurts.
It took me several days to recover, but it also hurts when she never calls any more. It hurts when family rejects you.
I have a friend named Rhonda who is also going through the heartache of not hearing from her daughter who was in a car wreck. Her little girl was left crippled. Her mom was in another car wreck about a week later. Neither of the car wrecks were her fault, but she was left very heartbroken.
Beth, what do we do when our family rejects us and we love them so much?
Can I tell you from experience Joyce? Keep sending birthday cards, Christmas cards and anything else that maybe special to your prodigal people. Pray for them and leave it everyday at the feet of Jesus. I had to do this with a sister. Sixteen years later she is back!!!
Praying for you.. Rebecca
How awesome! I don’t even know y’all and I got all teary-eyed! Love it! Congratulations Vangie!
Thanks for sharing the joy of Vangie’s wedding.
Congratulations Vangie!!! You give hope to this 40 something woman who is praying that the guy the Lord has ordained for her life will show up. I can’t imagine what it must be like to share a day with so many wonderful family and friends who want nothing but the best for you. God Bless your union.
Beth – I have missed the blog the past week – I have SO MUCH to catch up on, and what a post to start with!
Vangie and her groom are so amazingly beautiful/handsome, and that is one of the prettiest wedding cakes I believe I have ever seen.
Thank you for the details and newsy news. You looked especially glowing yourself – I suwanee I don’t know how you do it woman, as busy as you are! God is able.
God gives His best to those who leave the choice to Him!
Go Vangie – you were a beautiful bride!
Much love,
Jan
Congratulations Vangie!!!! A thousand times over!!!! What a breath-taking bride you make! Your Father in Heaven was surely smiling down and saying, ah that’s my girl…..isn’t she beautiful!!!
Thanks for all the details Beth…..makes as feel as though we were there too.
Love U!
Beautiful bride and groom, love the picture with all the LPM staff at end holding up there hands AAV that is to sweet. Loved your hair seista mama you were blessed to have a beautiful head if hair.
Vangie also gave this 53yr old woman hope that one day my prince charming will come and sweep me off my feet.
Its just plain tuff being single.
Love you all
Carol
Congratulations to Vangie (AKA Mrs. Darren Williams)!
My husband and I honeymooned in San Diego, what seems like just a few years ago! Lots of fond memories racing through my mind right now. 🙂
I pray that Vangie and Darren have many fond memories and many many blessed years of wedded bliss, with a home filled with Christ’s love and perhaps a few children to throw in the mix. =) God is truly good…ALL THE TIME!
I love every last little detail! Thank you for sharing all of them!!!
Too wonderful!! too cool! So much fun.. yeah Vangie.. and its all about you girl.. our 2010 Ruth.. looking forward to the legacy . be blessed
aaah… what a beautiful wedding…. and the bride is stunning….. congratulations to Vangie! it’s always so exciting to see God bring a couple together…. awesome!!!!!!
Congratulations to you Vangie!!
May God richly bless your marriage as you grow close together and closer to Him!!
It looks like it was a beautiful wedding!
lovingly, Barb
Hi Beth,
I was at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship on Friday and Saturday. I waved from the top balcony. 😀 My BFF Bible Study Sisters were jealous in a very Godly way!!!
Pam
PS LOVED what you said about Paul’s ship wreck.
Truly gorgeous!
I traveled from North Carolina to be at the Desperate For Jesus conference because…..well, I am Desperate for Jesus!! I am a former Dallasite and transferred to NC with my job. One thing you said at the conference Beth helped me to understand why I am here. Maybe God said to Satan “Have you considered my servant, Lora? If we take her away from OCBF and put her in NC with no church home for a year will she stay faithful to Me?”. Just the thought of that conversation made me realize that even though I don’t know why I have gone through what I have the for the past year it has been for God’s glory! I FINALLY found a church home and am making those connections again. Praise God!
We missed you during the Panel Discussion but seeing these beautiful wedding pictures I can see why you had to leave! I bought the CD’s from the conference and have listened to your lessons twice this week. NC has been my storm but I have run aground and am seeing the calm return to my life!
Oh, and Tara Jenkins was off the chain. I mean, how often do you get to see the Thriller dance in church!
Love ya so much, Beth! You are a blessing in my life!
Evangeline, thought of you and your wedding this week – in fact i came to this site after a long vacation just to see if you had gotton married yet!!!! May you and Darren live the lives God has ordained for you with much love!!!! from a tues nite sister who loves to stop by to say HI and get a hug!!!!
CORRECTION: It was Tara Jenkins that made the statement about “Have you considered my servant Job (or your own name)! The entire Deperate For Jesus Conference was such a blessing!!!!!!!!