I was invited to document an incredibly intimate ceremony called a Blessingaway held for Marissa the day before her wedding celebration in September. Not really knowing what to expect of this Native American ceremony, I was greeted with a cup of the most amazing tea from Light of Day, served by Angela Macke who grew most of it and made the blend by hand.  Normally I’m not into tea but I have to admit, this was wonderful.

The other surprising element was that there were no feathers, leather skins or drums.  When I hear “Native American ceremony,” my mind goes instantly to my grandpa who used to hunt for arrowheads and would bring us to pow-wows, complete with beating drums, bonfires, and full-feathered dancing.  This ceremony, however, was about honoring the bride and giving her support and encouragement as she starts this new chapter in life.  The most significant women in her life were in attendance – her mother, grandmother, great aunts, aunts, cousins, new family members, along with her closest friends.  They were asked to bring a small token that represented a memory as well as a story, prayer, poem, or blessing to share with the bride.

It.  Was.  Beautiful.

After Angela did her presentation on the teas served, the women began telling the most touching stories.  With each story, I learned who Marissa was and how she loved.  I watched how she interacted with her new son and daughter who were clearly smitten with their new mom.  There were tears over the stories of very real pain and stories of inexplicable joy; laughter trumpeted the childhood stories of how she would taunt her sister and grown-up stories of venturing to new cities.  She lived life fully and deliberately.  I was truly blessed to have witnessed such a precious time.

Meet Marissa (left)

The tokens were hung from a wreath in the middle of the room

Meet her two gorgeous new kiddos. I'm smitten.

Stay tuned for part two, the wedding celebration!