The engagement brought a deep sense of happiness to both Astrid and Erik. With their promise to one another made, their friends and families began to rally around them in excitement, ready to build the perfect day for the wedding. Planning, though, would soon prove to be more than just a few simple choices; every decision felt like a reflection of their relationship. Astrid and Erik quickly realized that while they wanted a beautiful wedding, they most valued staying true to themselves—something their loved ones encouraged.
Their dream wedding was a modest, intimate celebration. They weren't interested in grandeur or excess; rather, they envisioned a meaningful day surrounded by only those closest to them. They wanted to savor each moment, keep the focus on their love, and be able to look back and remember the day's authenticity. Erik's parents offered to host the wedding in Sweden, but Astrid and Erik decided together that they would hold it in the countryside near Stockholm, where they had started their life together. To them, it was a commitment to a shared heritage, a place that held dear memories for both of them.
Astrid naturally had an eye for detail and dove headfirst into designing the look and feel of her wedding. She daydreamed about small, enchanting elements that would bring the venue to life. She pictured wildflowers, hints of greenery, and twinkling, soft lights overhead. Everything seemed so conscious, a way of making the day all their own. "I want it to feel like one of our walks through the forest," she told Erik one evening. "Peaceful, simple, but beautiful.
Erik was quite happy to leave the décor up to Astrid, but he wanted to put his two cents in, too. He would make the ambiance with music. He made a playlist of all the songs they had listened to together over the years: melodies that had accompanied their moments of happiness, sadness, and discovery. He even called a few musician friends to ask if they could play live at the ceremony. Erik did not say anything, wanting this to be a surprise for Astrid on the actual day of the wedding.
The second most important task would be to finalize the guest list. Keeping in line with their concept, they decided to keep it small and intimate. Only immediate family and a few close friends would be invited. Erik's family would come from Paris, while Astrid's relatives were already scattered all over Sweden. With such a small guest list of only closest friends and family members, it would be easier to recreate that cozy and intimate atmosphere that they were striving for. Their family was happy and proud to become a part of such an important day in their lives, knowing this means so much more for these newlyweds than some bigger, more formal event ever could.
As the wedding approached, Astrid and Erik's days were a flurry of preparations. They spent weekends visiting local markets and meeting with artisans to find unique, hand-crafted pieces for their day. Astrid was particular about selecting items with care. She opted for the table settings with vintage linens hand-made, and Erik found a small, family-owned bakery to create their wedding cake that would be decorated with fresh berries and flowers. Astrid even went to the extent of selecting the fragrance of lavender candles that would light up the premises, knowing how calming the fragrance was and would add to the serenity of the atmosphere.
However, the dress remained one of the biggest decisions on Astrid's mind. She had always dreamed about something simple and elegant, but each time she tried on some dress in a bridal boutique, it was just not hers, not exactly her vision. The dresses were beautiful, yet too elaborated, too far from the natural style she held dear. Gaining frustration, she confided in her friend Helena, who suggested looking at smaller, independent boutiques with a vintage selection.
One afternoon, they visited a quaint boutique with its well-known collection of vintage clothes. In the corner, hidden from general view, was the dress Astrid had hoped to see: a soft, ivory lace and silk creation with small sleeves and a simple, fluid skirt. The moment she put it on, she knew this was the one. It was perfect-this dress was timeless and elegant, comfortable, and in every way reflective of her personality.
As she showed him the dress, his eyes lit up with admiration. "It's perfect, Astrid," he whispered, taking her hands. He could see her beaming and knew she had found exactly what she wanted.
During the last weeks of preparation for their wedding, the evenings were often quiet ones, with the two writing vows. They both wanted to say some personal words, reflecting on the unique journey that had brought them together. Memories of late-night conversations, shared dreams, and all the little moments that brought them closer were recounted. Astrid's vow was tender and grateful, speaking to the ways Erik had helped her find herself. Erik's, in turn, was a heartfelt expression of his admiration for her strength, kindness, and the light she had brought into his life.
As they prepared their vows, they couldn't help but reflect on how far they had come. Each word they wrote felt like a promise and a reminder of the life they were building together.
The day of the wedding dawned with clear skies and a soft, warm breeze. She felt excited yet in a composed mood as she got ready. Her mother and closest friends joined her for the morning, helping her get into her dress, hair, and finishing touches. Finally, when she was ready, looking into the mirror, a soft smile played on her lips. She felt ready, fully prepared to step into this new chapter with Erik by her side.
Meanwhile, Erik was with his father and brothers, making last-minute adjustments and trying to keep his excitement in check. He checked in with the musicians to make sure everything was set for his surprise performance during the ceremony. His father laid a reassuring hand on his shoulder, smiling. "Today is going to be everything you dreamed of, Erik," he said, pride oozing from his eyes.
It was held at a quaint, rustic little chapel nestled among the trees. The soft sun filtered through the window panes, casting a gentle, golden glow over the room. As the guests entered, soft music met them, along with the subtle scent of wildflowers. Everything felt just right; it was the culmination of months of thoughtful planning and shared dreams.
When it was time for Astrid to walk down the aisle, she stepped forward, her father by her side, and her eyes met Erik's. In that moment, all the planning, all the worries, and all the little details faded into the background. She saw only him, the man she loved, waiting for her with an expression of pure love and devotion.
The ceremony was both quiet in beauty and heartily emotional. The musicians played a soft melody as Astrid and Erik stood before each other, hands clasped, exchanging their vows. Erik's surprise performance came during the close of the ceremony with a friend performing their song-a beautiful, personal touch that brought tears to Astrid's eyes.
After the ceremony, they joined their guests for a simple but elegant reception. Tables circled around under strings of lights, and guests dined on locally sourced dishes. It was an intimate gathering, almost like a family dinner, full of laughter, heartfelt toasts, and cherished moments. Erik and Astrid went from table to table, sharing conversations, laughter, and hugs with each of their loved ones. The joy of the day was in the air, casting a glow that reflected their happiness.
As the evening wore on, Erik took Astrid onto the dance floor to dance for the first time. The music was soft and slow, a song with particular meaning to them. In each other's arms, they moved to the rhythm, surrounded by love and encouragement from all those around them.
In all the simplicity and warmth, their wedding day captured it all. A celebration of their love, a day filled with beauty, sincerity, and the presence of those who mattered most to them. And as they shared their final dance under the starlit sky, they knew that this was the perfect beginning to the life they had dreamed of together.