Joya might be one of the most beautiful women I have ever met. She is kind, well spoken, has a wild, amazing laugh and the best facial expressions. She is a feminist, a champion for human rights and an advocate for women's safety and equality. Beneath her placid blue eyes and demure smile is the soul of a warrior. Growing up in a UN family Joya has lived, traveled and seen more in her early years than most of us will see or do in a lifetime. She and her brothers and father share a deep bond and she has made lifelong friendships throughout the world. She is a fierce, beloved friend and a total badass. Christopher is strong and soft spoken. Behind kind eyes and a warm smile lies wisdom and confidence. He, his brother and his parents are a small but tight family unit. 

When I think about Joya and Christopher's wedding I am struck by the depth of joy and emotion that radiated throughout the ceremony and celebration. It was a day filled with poignant words and meaningful actions where nothing was taken for granted. It was a celebration of life, love and friendship. Perhaps the thing that speaks most to this couple's character is the fact that friends and family flew in from all corners of the world to celebrate throughout the weekend. To see that much love and comradery in the middle of rural Vermont was truly extraordinary. These two have an astounding international support network and an incredibly cool group of friends. 

The ceremony took place in a clearing in the middle of the forest surrounded by tall, stoic conifers. The silence and seclusion of the forest and the late afternoon sun sparkling through the treetops gave the clearing a warm, enchanted feel. Guests put away their phones and electronics in order to be fully present in the moment with Joya and Chris as Joya's brother Jonathan lead the couple through the ceremony. It was one of the loveliest ceremonies I have ever seen.

After a gourmet dinner, first dances, heartfelt speeches, toasts and cake, the whole crew scooted onto the dance floor for a night of celebration.

Congratulations to Joya and Christopher. You are a truly incredible team. You are the type of people who inspire others to be better and do better. I am so happy to have met you and I wish you a long, happy, healthy life together. 

Special thanks to the Inn at Weathersfield for making Joya and Christopher's day truly extraordinary and, as always, for being such a pleasure to work with.