A Day at the Beach

About the Couple
Bride: Amanda McCarthy
Groom: John Searle
Occupations: Amanda is a colon hydrotherapist and a yoga instructor. John is in sales for Fisher King Seafoods.
How they met: John was the boy next door—literally. He moved in next to Amanda for the summertime.
Favourite date: The first time that John cooked for Amanda. She says, “He made scallops and veggies. Then we had a hot tub and chatted about life.”
What attracted her to him: “I just had that feeling. I got butterflies when I shook his hand for the first time.”
What attracted him to her: “Her pretty face when she smiled.”
Their philosophy on life: “Keep things simple, live in the present. Happiness is a choice.”
Engagement story: Amanda says, “We went to cut down a Christmas tree at John’s parents’ cottage. He had hidden the ring box in the tree. He showed me the ring box, and as I opened it he dropped to one knee.”

The Wedding Day
Wedding date: August 8, 2009
Guests: 200
Wedding theme:  Beach barbecue
Her best moment: “Seeing John.” Amanda was also surprised by her Dad’s speech. She says, “I never thought he’d get up to speak in public. I was shocked. He spoke so beautifully, and I was so proud of him.”
His best moment: Kissing Amanda, and seeing the beautiful slide show she made.
What they would have done differently: “Fewer bridesmaids for sure. I had seven bridesmaids and two flower girls.”
Advice they would give to other couples: “Don’t get caught up in too many little details—they don’t matter.”
Wedding song: "You and Me," by Matthew Barber, a local Canadian artist.
The day in three words: “Magical, busy, love.”
Honeymoon: The newlyweds enjoyed a beach holiday on Panmure Island, P.E.I.
What made her day: “It was just a great day from beginning to end.”
What made his day: “Taking it all in.”
Favourite wedding detail: “The band—they were amazing. We’ve never seen a dance floor so packed.”
Favourite wedding gift: “Having my grandmother play the fiddle, and my best friend make our wedding cake.”

Vendors:
Bridal gown: David’s Bridal (davidsbridal.com)
Bridal party attire: Alexia Admor, purchased from All Dressed Up (alldresseduphfx.com)
Caterer: BBQ Buddies (902-895-5138)
Ceremony location: Toney River, Pictou, N.S.
Favours: A donation was made to the Pictou Youth Soccer Club
Flowers: From the Searle family’s garden
Groom's tux: Moores (mooresclothing.com)
Hair: By Melissa at HS Studio (HSstudio.ca)
Makeup: Jennifer Stewart (breathebedford.ca)
Music: Beyond Ash (902-485-5228)