The Anam Cara Ceremony

I recently officiated the wedding ceremony of Matthew and Elizabeth, which was created in the Celtic spirit of anam cara. Their wedding was held at Iris Aisle, an intimate wedding venue outside of Winterset. It was my first time officiating there, I fell in love with place.  The co-owner and photographer, Raelyn Ramey, fit the Victorian vibe of the venue perfectly.  She silently glided around the couple shooting photos. Her long wavy hair, flowing dress, and colorful tattoos made her appear almost supernatural; I think she is actually a Woodland Fairie.  One things for certain, she's an incredible photographer and a visionary in the wedding industry. 
The words "anam cara" translates in Gaelic to soul friend or soul mate. An anam cara relationship is believed to be a deep and spiritual connection between two people who are joined in an ancient and eternal way.  Even before they dated, Matthew intuited a special connection with Elizabeth, and he have gave her the book Anam Cara by poet John O'Donahue.  Matthew and Elizabeth knew exactly what they wanted and together created an outline for me of blessings and vows that were meaningful to them. I had the honor of lighting candles and invoking the blessings of the Elders and of the Elements: Earth, Air, Fire and Water.  Here is a sample of their wedding ceremony:
"Love is never late, nor is it early. It arrives precisely when it’s meant to. Anam Cara is Gaelic for soul friend, soul-love or soulmate. But the pairing of these two words is about more than just an ordinary union of two people in love; it's deep and spiritual and special. Matthew and Elizabeth, to be in an intentional anam cara relationship requires your absolute presence, integrity, love and acceptance of each other, as you humbly and gracefully keep your judgments in check.
It also asks for your expanded capacity to receive love, appreciation and acceptance - opening your hearts to trust, vulnerability and the willingness to be seen and heard. Anam cara is not something that is sought, but is recognized by a reciprocal heart song, “I know you - I see you - I understand you - I value you - I accept you - My soul accompanies yours.”