Michael Alan Waite

1. Opening Remarks

Good afternoon, everyone! I am so honored to be standing here to officiate the wedding of Bailey and Keaone. Today, we come together to celebrate their love and lifelong commitment to one another.

I extend a warm welcome to the family and friends who have traveled both near and far to share this moment. Your presence here today means the world to Bailey and Keaone. And for those who couldn't make it, know that you're missed and held in our hearts. We are all privileged to witness Bailey and Keaone as they publicly pronounce their love and dedication to each other.

Whether you've been a part of their relationship from the very beginning, or you've come to know them later as they grew from two people "just dating" into the incredible couple before us, we're united today in celebrating the most significant chapter in their relationship—the public declaration of their mutual love and commitment. 

2. Family & Guest’s Blessings and Remembrance

To the families of Bailey and Keaone, it might feel like just yesterday when these two extraordinary individuals were born. You gazed upon them in awe, recognizing their limitless potential. With you, they took their first steps and uttered their first words. You rejoiced in their victories and stood by them in times of hardship. Your love and support have shaped them into the remarkable people they are, capable of the profound love they're celebrating today. Families, we honor and thank you, knowing that the love you've given will continue to thrive in the home Bailey and Keaone build together, and in generations to come.

Now, let's focus on the journey that Bailey and Keaone are embarking upon today.

3. Words on Marriage

Bailey and Keaone, marriage is a serious commitment, yet it’s one that's made lighter and more joyous when shared. May you both be true and loving, filling your lives with kindness, understanding, and forgiveness. Lean on each other's strengths and pardon each other's weaknesses. Laugh together often, and continue to meet life's challenges as a united front. As you turn the pages from one chapter of your life to the next, may your love continue to deepen and mature. Marriage is both a joy and a challenge, and it's a journey you embark upon together.

And what a journey it's been so far! Let's delve into their story.

 

4. The Couple’s Story

This is the tale of how Bailey and Keaone became the amazing couple they are today — a story I've had the privilege to learn through their own words. Initially, what captivated Keaone was Bailey’s authenticity, her fearlessness in being herself, and of course, her kindness. In his words, “It was her beautiful reddish-brown hair that first caught my eye.” Meanwhile, Bailey was spellbound by Keaone's striking eyes, which she describes as “popping against his dark skin and hair.” She recalls, "He was so funny and hardworking and so dreamy!" She also found his sense of humor and work ethic irresistible.

Fast-forward to their engagement; the day when Keaone decided to take their relationship to the next level. Keaone knew that camping was a shared passion, so he concocted a plan to propose amidst the natural beauty of Gerstle Cove State Park. Bailey recalls this camping trip fondly, noting the walk they took after a dinner of deer they'd hunted together. Unbeknownst to her, Keaone walked her up to an ocean cliff where he popped the question, where Bailey enthusiastically said 'yes.'

Together, they describe their relationship as one founded on honesty, care, and endless laughter. Keaone looks forward to building a solid foundation, buying a house, traveling, and starting a family together. Bailey can't wait to officially call Keaone her husband and see him become not only a father but eventually a grandpa.

Whether they're talking about each other's unique beauty, sense of humor, or unwavering support, it's clear that Bailey and Keaone share a love that's incredibly special. As they look ahead, they envision a future full of shared adventures, a loving home, and a growing family. Today, we celebrate not just their union, but the powerful love story that brought them here.

 

5. Vows

Speaking of stories, Bailey and Keaone have each prepared their own vows, a personal chapter in this ongoing love story.

BAILEY VOWS

KEAONE VOWS

As words are given shape through vows, so are promises given form through rings.

 Taz hands me the rings

6. The Ring Ceremony

Ladies and Gentlemen, we now come to the part of the ceremony where Bailey and Keaone exchange rings. These rings are not just simple pieces of metal; they are symbols. Unbroken circles, they represent the eternal nature of love—never ending, always enduring. As Bailey and Keaone place these rings on each other's fingers, they are making a powerful statement. With these rings, they say to each other and to the world, 'You are my one, my only, my forever.'

 

As you, Keaone, place this ring on Bailey’s finger, please repeat after me.

I give you this ring as a symbol of our commitment, to loving each other,

protecting one another’s heart,

and enjoying the adventures life offers.

As you, Bailey, place this ring on Keaone’s finger, please repeat after me.

I give you this ring as a symbol of our commitment, to loving each other,

protecting one another’s heart,

and enjoying the adventures life offers.

May these rings forever symbolize the promises made and the love shared here today. 

7. Closing Remarks

The commitment you two have made to each other today is deeper than the vows that you made. It is a personal commitment to a lifelong partnership. It's a pact built on the understanding that both of you will consistently support and elevate each other, not just today, but for every year that follows. And, the love you two have shown for each other today is deeper than any of the readings or other words that have been shared. It's a resilient love that will see you through both joys and challenges. It is a love that will be a part of everything you do as individuals and as the wonderful couple we see before us today.

Welcome to the lifelong journey that is marriage.

 

8. The Pronouncement, Kiss, and Introduction

And now, without further ado, let's make this commitment official.

Having witnessed your marriage vows, along with all who are assembled here today, and by the authority vested in me by American Marriage Ministries and the State of California, it is with great joy that I now pronounce you husband and wife

You may now celebrate your marriage with a kiss!

Ladies and Gentlemen, it's my immense honor and joy to introduce for the very first time as newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Stephens.