I have been planning a 25th vow renewal with Karen and Joseph for over a year now and we are so excited for their big celebration this month at DragonRidge Country Club! Throughout our planning, I have learned what has gotten this mighty couple through 25 years of marriage! Was it easy? Absolutely not. Was it worth it? YES!
Karen and Joseph were married 25 years ago in their military uniforms and boots in a very casual setting. This time around they want a full out GLAM wedding, which is why I call Karen my “Glam Bride” which in return she calls me “Glam Dream Super Planner”. SWOON! They are hard working parents who want to have a big bash with their closest friends and family. Many who are traveling from Chicago.
I asked Karen and Joseph some advice on marriage, love, and life. See below for some great insight!
What is the hardest thing you have experienced together?
Hardest thing we had to experience in our marriage was when I thought I had lost him in the conflict Desert Storm. We were in country for about three months into the conflict, he had been attached to another unit. He had called me from his location and we had been talking when I heard explosions in the background. Soon after the line went dead. I was completely distraught, and was very nervous that he was gone. It would be a few days before I would hear from him. When I did finally talk with him, It was then when I realized he was my soulmate and I wanted to be with him the rest of my life. He was the One. I still have the letters that he wrote to me while we were getting bombed. They are one of my most prized possessions that he has ever given me aside from our children. We have been through a lot in our marriage, more than I could probably put in words but we have pulled through and stayed stronger together every since. Meeting the in-laws was a breeze…LOL!
What advice do you have for newlyweds?
Always say, ” I love you” everyday and every chance you get to your spouse even if you’re mad at them. Especially, if you’ve just been fighting or arguing with them. Just because you’re upset at someone doesn’t mean you stop loving them. The grass may be greener on the other side, but if you water your own grass like you did on the first day, your grass will be just as green.
Have patience with one another as you grow older together. You are two different people with different backgrounds, different personalities, and sometimes different cultures. Make sure you listen to what each other is saying and don’t just listen to respond.
In our busy lives sometimes we forget to make time for ourselves as a couple. Make sure to do this because in time the children leave and you may outgrow or move away from friends.
Where do you see yourselves in the next 25 years?
Hopefully in the next 25 years we will be enjoying our family and each other. Traveling to different cities and countries and crossing items off our bucket list like Paris, couple motorcycles, and cuddling with our grandchildren in our dream home!! Hopefully he’ll still be making me laugh and calling me a beautiful Goddess, and I’ll still be calling him Superman!
Does it get any sweeter?! We can’t wait to share their wedding day with you!
