Lauri Bodenbender-Netherton

Devin Barr & Tiera Dumm

As Tiera stands here, surrounded by the family who has loved and guided her, we honor the strong foundation that has shaped her into the woman she is today. [Pause, look to both fathers] Who gives their blessing and support as she joins her life with Devin’s

Please BE SEATED

We are gathered here today to celebrate one of life’s greatest blessings — the joining of two hearts, two lives, and two families in marriage.

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Lauri Netherton, and it is such an honor to stand here today. I’ve known Tiera her entire life

— I met her mom when she was pregnant with her, and even then, I knew she was going to be someone truly special.

As a little girl, Tiera and my son Steven became fast friends — though, if we’re being honest, Tiera was always the boss. That spark, that strength, and that big loving heart have been with her from the very start. And it’s no surprise when you see the family who helped raise her.

Surrounded by strong role models — Pamela, Jason, Russ, and Michelle —

Tiera grew up to be a strong, independent go-getter who knows the importance of family. Whether it was rallying together when her grandmothers were sick or simply showing up for each other through life’s highs and lows, this is a family that knows what it means to love deeply and to support one another, no matter what.

Today is even more special because Tiera carries with her the love and legacy of her grandmother, Therese, by wearing her ring — a beautiful reminder that family love lives on in every new chapter of our lives.

And then there’s Magnolia — that bright, bold, sweet girl who keeps everyone laughing and grounded. Magnolia is already wise beyond her years — saying things like, “Mommy, don’t take my paci, that’s a big no-no,” and reminding her mama, “Mommy, you are beautiful and so kind.”

Devin and Tiera, it has been such a joy watching you grow as parents, pouring so much love into Maggie’s life. And today, as you take this next step, you do so as a family — stronger, together

My Reflection on Love & Marriage: Marriage is a promise – one built on love, trust, patience and teamwork.

It is not about finding someone you can live with, it is about finding someone you can’t imagine living without.

Ayesha Curry, you may have heard of her, her husband is Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors.., Like you guys, man These guys are busy!

She owns many businesses herself. She said “There was a time when they were trying to do it all by themselves… she quickly realized, no We are stronger and better together”

You two are stronger and better together!

You guys are busy.. You’re raising a daughter, you are at the beginning of your careers, and it is important that you make the time and continue to invest in your relationship.

>Devin, when I asked Tiera what she loved and admired

about you, she said, You are so committed to being a good man, She falls in love with the way you look at Magnolia like she hung the moon. You have fought demons that most people would never even know or understand just by looking at you, but you are absolutely the best dad and partner, and you are the piece this family needs to make it whole.

And Devin he told me how much he adores Tiera and the mother she is to this daughter of theirs, how hard she works and still makes time to be so supportive of him.

> I love the fact that you are marrying your best friend. I can’t tell you how special that is as you begin this marriage relationship.

I read a quote the other day that said, “the grass isn’t greener elsewhere. It’s greener where you water it.”

So, continue to date and stay invested in growing and strengthening your relationship!

learn the importance of forgiveness.

Like life, marriage comes with a lot of challenges.

I’ll let you in on a secret…

There’s no marriage that’s perfect and There's no spouse that's perfect.

Devin, even though you

may be standing here at this moment and Tiera is as beautiful today as you’ve ever seen her…

the reality is, she’s human and far from perfect and so are you…in fact all of us are for that matter.

What often happens is that we take our faults and imperfections with us into the marriage relationship. And even though you’ve been together for a while, marriage is different, it just is. Marriage has a way of exposing our faults and

imperfections.

So, that’s why forgiveness is so important in your marriage.

I was told one time that the 12 most important words in a marriage are these,

“I was wrong, I am sorry, please forgive me, I love you.”

If you say these words often to one another, I promise you, you’ll have a happier marriage.

* Marriage is more than a piece of paper. It’s a commitment you’re making to one another.

* Saying “I Do” Means…

* I will love you even on days I don’t like you.

* I will think less of my needs and more about yours.

* I will laugh with you, not at you.

* I will be your biggest fan.

* I will stand by you at all costs.

* I will forgive you.

* I will love growing old with you.

That's my prayer for you!

I want your marriage to be a healthy marriage, full of life, full of adventure, full of happiness and unconditional love for one another. You have a lot of friends and family who love you! Don’t ever be too prideful or ashamed to ask for help if you need it. Know you’re surrounded by people who truly want the best for you and your marriage.

Magnolia Plant Ceremony

“Now, to symbolize the love and care they will continue to pour into their family, Tiera and Devin have chosen to plant a Magnolia tree. And have a special moment for their daughter, where they will be sharing vows promising to love, guide and support her as they continue this journey as a family.

Just as this Magnolia will grow tall and strong when nurtured, their love and their family will flourish as they continue to tend to it with patience, kindness, and faith.

Tiera and Devin, please each add a scoop of soil to the plant, representing the roots you are building for your family today.

VOWS:

Vows Between the Couple

(for written vows, cue the couple — otherwise use this wording)

“[Devin], please repeat after me:

I, [Devin], take you, [Tiera],

to be my partner in life,

my love, and my best friend.

I promise to honor you, cherish you,

and laugh with you for all the days of my life.”

Repeat for [Partner 2].

RINGS: Devin and Tiera

Ring Exchange

“May I have the rings, please?

These rings are a symbol — simple and unbroken, just like the love and commitment you share today.

[Devin], as you place this ring on [Tiera’s]’s finger, repeat after me:

‘With this ring, I promise my love and my life to you.’

[Tiera], your turn:

‘With this ring, I promise my love and my life to you.’”

Devin, you may now kiss your Bride!

Closing Blessing

“May your love be patient and kind, may your laughter be louder than your disagreements,

and may your home always be full of faith, hope, and joy.

And may this Magnolia tree grow strong, just like your family.

It is my joy and honor to introduce, for the very first time, Mr. and Mrs. Barr!!