A/N-Happy New Year to everyone. As promised here is the chapter that brings this couple together. I hope that you enjoy it.
She could not believe that the day had finally arrived. At sunset she was getting married. It had been a world wind week for Olivia.
Flashback-(The Week Leading up to the Wedding)
Christmas day had been very low-key for everyone. They opened gifts, ate, and watched basketball and movies.
The day after began the process of her finalizing her wedding. David was a doll to work with. Between him, Fitz, and her mom she was satisfied with everything that they selected.
David had to admit that he was impressed that Fitz knew Olivia so well. When he received the call he was hesitant to take the project on. One this was a destination wedding so if Olivia hated everything it would have been hard to get everything done in a week. He was overall concerned that she might not be happy that she didn't have a more hands approach with her wedding.
Fitz was adamant that she choose the fashion, flowers, and their final menu for their reception.
David could tell that she was happy that she was able pick her dress. It took no time for Olivia to select the dress that she wanted. When she seen it the dress spoke to her. Once she got it on it told her all she needed to know.
She selected the bridesmaid dresses. She asked David if he could leave the front row opened. She would like for the bridesmaids and groomsmen to sit on the front row. For their ceremony she just wanted the two of them standing up.
Brian had arrived in Fiji the day after Christmas. He told the couple that he thought their engagement pictures should be taken at Sunset as well. The couple loved the idea.
That evening they took pictures. Olivia wore a Carolina Herrera Floral Beaded V-neck Cocktail Dress with Christian Louboutuin Black Patent Red Sole Slingback Sandal Heels. Fitz wore an Isaia Pinstripe Suit with a yellow tie and Suede Cap Toe Monk-Strap Shoes.
Pictures truly were worth a thousand words. Each shot radiated the love the couple had for each other. They had taken some traditional shots, then Brian had told them to act natural. The couple kicked off their shoes and the best shots came. Some were of her on his back. He had some of Fitz holding Olivia in a bridal hold. The ones that really gave him pause was when the couple forgot he was there and would steal kisses and talk sweet nothings to each other. It was rare for Brian who dealt with a lot of professionals but this couple didn't take a bad picture.
That night they agreed that they wanted to write their own vows. Each could not wait to hear what the other wrote.
They combined their rehearsal dinner and New Year's Eve party together. They just asked that everyone not to get too drunk. The ceremony was not until sunset so they would have time to sober up, but they didn't want to deal with sobering up their friends on their wedding day.
Brian offered to take some pictures at the rehearsal dinner for no extra cost. Fitz had shared with him when he hired him that he wanted to make sure that Olivia would be able to go back and remember this day through pictures. She didn't get this opportunity in her first marriage, and he wanted everything to be captured for her.
After the rehearsal the stylish couple made their way to their rehearsal dinner. Olivia looked like an angel in her Pink Oscar de la Renta Strapless Beaded & Feather cocktail dress. Fitz not to be outdone was in a Brown Jos A. Bank Two-Button Suit with Pleated Trousers and a Herringbone Stripe tie.
It was a festive evening. Everyone was happy and excited for the couple who had fought and won the right to be together.
Abby got everyone's attention so that she and Harrison could give the couple a toast. Once they had everyone attention Abby started.
"I remember when we met Fitz & Olivia. I was shocked that they were not a couple. You could see that they complimented each other and belonged together. Life can be a bitch, but you guys never gave up. You are two of the greatest individuals I know, but together there are no words. Thank you for being you. Thank you for loving me for who I am. I wish you nothing but years of love and happiness. I love you guys."
Fitz & Olivia smiled, "We love you too"
Harrison got up, "Growing up I knew that me being smart was the only chance I had to be something. There were times that I was resentful of wealthy people because they always treated those who didn't have as much as they did like we were second class citizens. That was until I met the two of you. I realized that I couldn't judge everyone the same. When I look at the two of you I see humble honest individuals who only want to be happy. You want to make an impact on the world. You have made an impact in my life from the time that we met. You both are true survivors and I know that together the world just got a little bit better. Here is to your success and happiness."
Fitz & Olivia smiled, "Thank you"
The couple brought in the new year with their family and friends. Olivia had reserved a room for her to stay in for the day. Technically they had not spent the night apart since they did not go their separate ways until a little after one, but it was close enough.
They didn't want to separate. Surprisingly it was Fitz who suggested it and made sure they went to their separate rooms. He wanted her to experience everything including some of the traditions of getting married.
Olivia couldn't be mad at him. When she got to her room it was weird being alone. She went to the bathroom and did her nightly routine. When she came out she looked at the bag that held her wedding dress. She immediately choked up. Not only was she getting married to the love of her life, but she was getting the wedding of her dreams. He loved her so much and made sure she would never forget this day.
Olivia was thankful that a year later she had gotten her life back on track. She felt in control of her life again. This time around it was going to be great.
Present Day
Olivia had not slept much, but she felt like she had slept all night. She was nervous and excited.
There was a knock at her door so she went to answer it and found her moms with a light breakfast. While she really wasn't that hungry she knew she needed to eat something.
Olivia smiled at them, "Morning."
They replied good morning as well. They walked in the room and went over to the table. Olivia thanked them for the food.
She was eating but not saying much. Jenny & Maya knew that she was ball of nerves. Legally yes this was her second marriage, but this was her first wedding.
Jenny moved over beside Olivia, "I talked to Fitz this morning. His only concern was you. He actually scolded me for taking so long to get to you. He lives and breathes you sweetie. So while I know that any bride has some wedding jitters today is going to be great."
Olivia looked up at her with tears in her eyes, "I know mom. I am not so much nervous as I am scared that I am getting punked. I was in a hospital this time last year. I didn't know if I had any life to go back to. I want this so much it hurts. I can't breathe without him in my life anymore."
Maya moved to the other side of Olivia, "You don't have to because this is real. You both put in the work, and today is the start of your reward."
They finished breakfast right as David came to her room. David informed her that Fitz had arranged for her to get a sugar body glow and an island foot wrap. In addition she would get her manicure and pedicure.
David asked her to call him when she was done at the spa so he could bring over the hair and make-up team. While Olivia was at the spa the team was going to get started with everyone else. He had a stylist and make-up artist there solely for Olivia.
Once she got started at the spa it seemed that the day began to speed up. It was never a moment for her to think which turned out to be a good thing.
While they were finishing up Olivia's make up the girls came to the room so she could see them. They looked perfect in their Ombre Style Watermelon Chiffon Gown with Straps. Olivia selected the gown because they were light and it was a gown that they could wear again.
Jenny came in the room. She was now dressed in the gown that she tried on Black Friday. Olivia could only laugh. They told her that they would put the dresses up until the couple got married, and she was unaware that it was happening a little more than a month later.
Jenny brought a box over to her. Maya was right behind her with two boxes. Olivia was curious as to what was going on. They would not let her open them. There was a knock at the door and Brian walked in.
Olivia got excited. Seeing him made the moment feel real and special.
Jenny smiled, "This is your something old. I wore this on my wedding day. I was going to get rid of it, but I decided to keep it hoping that I would get a daughter via my son getting married."
Olivia opened up the box and gasped. There was no way that she could hold back the tears. Thankfully they had put waterproof make-upon her and would be around throughout the day and evening for touch-ups so she remained picture perfect throughout the night.
Olivia was looking at a Victorian Natural Pearl and Diamond Tiara. The hair stylist put it on for her. Olivia's hair was in tight curls. Part of it was pulled up. She had decided against a veil.
Olivia hugged Jenny, "Thanks Ma I promise that I will treasure it. I will hold onto it and hopefully be able to give it to my daughter one day."
Jenny nodded as she couldn't speak at the moment as her emotions were getting the better of her.
Maya stepped up with two boxes. She was trying to keep her emotions in check. She finally spoke, "I have your something borrowed and your something blue times two."
Maya said, "Here is your something borrowed."
Olivia opened the box to find a pair of White Gold Pear Shape Blue Sapphire & Diamond earrings. She remembered from the pictures that these were the earrings that her mother wore on her wedding day.
Olivia smiled, "Thanks mom. I am honored to wear these today"
Maya smiled, "Here is your something new. The card is on the top for you to read first.
Olivia opened the card, "The day has finally arrived. We get to begin our happily ever after and I know that it will be great. I hope the day is turning out to be everything you want and more. I can't wait to see you walk down the aisle. You are it for me Livvie. I love you and hope that you enjoy this something new. Fitz"
Olivia opened up the case and found a stunning nine caret Sapphire and Diamond Statement Necklace. She was once again crying. One day they were at home lying around looking on the internet. Olivia was looking at charms for her bracelet and came the necklace. The necklace was really expensive. Olivia joked that she it looked like a necklace that a Queen or Princess would wear. Fitz said it would be perfect for her and she shook her head no, but then said well maybe on my wedding day it would work. I would truly feel like a queen.
Everyone in the room was crying when she told them the story. They knew the day was going to be emotional, and if anybody deserved it would be Olivia. Fitz was the real deal.
Olivia got her self together. Her make-up was touched up. She put on her garter. She went into the room and the seamstress helped her get into her wedding dress and shoes.
Olivia knew that many saw her as a beautiful woman, but to feel beautiful had not always came easily to her. In this moment she felt and knew that she was beautiful. Happy only mildly described how she felt. The seamstress only had to make some minor changes when she selected the gown a week ago. It fit her perfectly.
She opened the door so Olivia could show everyone that the bride was ready. When she came around the corner she heard gasps, Oh God, and unbelievable. No one said a word for a moment stunned by how beautiful Olivia looked. There were no words to describe the moment. Brian had to compose himself so he could capture the moment.
Olivia was standing in front of them in a Lalai Gown. It was an ivory soft a-line gown featuring beaded leaf embroidery on illusion tulle. Pearl buttons were on the back of the gown. Her shoes were Catherine by Benjamin Adams. The shoes were in honor of the royal wedding. The shoes were adorned with Swarovski crystals.
Her moms were really a mess for a minute. It all became really real seeing her. Everyone composed themselves. After a few touch ups they took some pictures.
It was almost time for the ceremony so everyone left to get in place. David had partnered with a company named Tadra to get everything set up for the ceremony.
The provided the elegant set-up at the beach for the couple's ceremony. They provided the officiant for the ceremony. They designed a welcome board to welcome the guests that the couple would get to keep.
David handed Olivia her tropical posy bouquet that they made for her. Fitz had on the matching buttonhole.
Everyone was in place. The time had come for Olivia to walk down the aisle. A hand-woven mat was laid down for her to walk on. Huck was walking her down the aisle.
When she turned and seen Fitz she immediately became emotional. He was not helping at all because he was crying already as well. He looked so handsome in his Great Gatsby Brook Brothers tuxedo. His haired was geled back and he looked like old Hollywood.
She finally made it down the aisle. They immediately were wiping the others tears away. Everyone awed at the couple. She looked out at the guest and seen Erin and Kerry. She seen her moms sitting side by side with love and adoration for them and she calmed down.
Ceremony
Official:
Today we have gathered in this place of natural beauty to be joyful, in celebration of the relationship of Fitzgerald and Olivia. By their commitment to marry each other, they are saying yes to love, yes to caring, yes to the family. May the spirit of God–which is in the blue sky, in the wind, and in the fresh smells of the Earth–enter your bodies, fill your hearts, and bless your lives.
Have you come here in the midst of these natural surroundings to affirm your commitment to each other?
Bride and Groom:
We have.
Official:
Please share your vows with each other:
Groom:
Livvie, my true love. I stand before you today vowing that for the rest of our lives we are in it together. Loving you is the easiest thing that I have ever done in life. Life with you means something. I have purpose as long as I have you. I know that we will have our problems, but I promise to never walk away. I promise to love and treat you like the queen that you are. You own me, you control me, I belong to you, and from this day forward I would have it no other way.
Bride:
Fitz, you are my everything. It is so easy now to forget the past pain and trauma that I went through because your love healed me. Thank you for fighting for us when I couldn't. Thank you for loving me when I couldn't love myself. I feel like a baby because with you everything is so new and wonderful and refreshing. I know that even with any problems that may come or way that life will be okay because I am with you. I love you. You are the love of my life. I can't and no longer want to live life without you. I thank God that he spared me so I live a happy life with you. I love you to the moon and back baby.
Official:
What do you give to each other as a symbol of this pledge?
Harrison & Abby handed them their rings. They had selected matching his & hers Platinum wedding bands.
Groom to the Bride, placing her ring on her finger:
I give you this ring, and I welcome you into my life as the companion of my days.
Bride to the Groom, placing his ring on his finger:
I give you this ring, and I welcome you into my life as the companion of my days.
Official:
These two people have been drawn together by their love for each other. May they practice self-discipline and patience throughout their marriage, for these are essential to lasting love. May they continue to trust each other, for trust is the foundation on which all love is built.
Official:
Since Fitzgerald and Olivia have pledged their love and commitment to each other before these witnesses, I declare that they are husband and wife.
Congratulations! You may kiss.
They made sure that the passion they had for one another was known. They were in their own world. They finally had to come up for air. They just stared at each other. The realization kicking in that they were now married.
I present to you for the first time Mr. & Mrs. Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III.
The couple headed off with Brian and the bridal party to take pictures. David showed the guest to the cocktail hour that they had set up.
Everyone was so happy for the couple so Brian had no problem getting all the shots he needed and more. Brian was so enamored with the couple that he asked if he could use some of the shots to post of his website. He offered to refund some of their money. The couple told him they would sign a waiver allowing use of some of their shots, but they were still paying him his entire fee.
David took the couple to their reception area so they could see it for the first time. The tropical table arrangements were beautiful. The pinks and purples and yellow were gorgeous.
There was a decorated signing table and wishing well set up. The chairs had pearl pink organza sashes with white covers.
The couple was happy with everything and were ready to get the party started. The D.J. introduced them to the reception and it sounded like a small army was cheering them on. The couple could only laugh in delight.
The couple was brought to the dance floor for their first dance. Fitz asked Olivia if he could pick the song which she allowed so she was interested in seeing what he picked. When the music started she looked up and him in tears.
Olivia kissed him, "Mr. Grant you are one in a million"
Fitz laughed, "Mrs. Grant only for you. Only for you."
Olivia looked up at him, "Say it again"
"Mrs. Grant"
The song played. It was "All of Me" by John Legend
[Verse 1:]
What would I do without your smart mouth
Drawing me in, and you kicking me out
Got my head spinning, no kidding, I can't pin you down
What's going on in that beautiful mind
I'm on your magical mystery ride
And I'm so dizzy, don't know what hit me, but I'll be alright
[Bridge:]
My head's under water
But I'm breathing fine
You're crazy and I'm out of my mind
[Chorus:]
'Cause all of me
Loves all of you
Love your curves and all your edges
All your perfect imperfections
Give your all to me
I'll give my all to you
You're my end and my beginning
Even when I lose I'm winning
'Cause I give you all, all of me
And you give me all, all of you, oh
[Verse 2:]
How many times do I have to tell you
Even when you're crying you're beautiful too
The world is beating you down, I'm around through every mood
You're my downfall, you're my muse
My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues
I can't stop singing, it's ringing, in my head for you
[Bridge:]
My head's under water
But I'm breathing fine
You're crazy and I'm out of my mind
[Chorus:]
'Cause all of me
Loves all of you
Love your curves and all your edges
All your perfect imperfections
Give your all to me
I'll give my all to you
You're my end and my beginning
Even when I lose I'm winning
'Cause I give you all of me
And you give me all, all of you, oh
Give me all of you
Cards on the table, we're both showing hearts
Risking it all, though it's hard
[Chorus:]
'Cause all of me
Loves all of you
Love your curves and all your edges
All your perfect imperfections
Give your all to me
I'll give my all to you
You're my end and my beginning
Even when I lose I'm winning
'Cause I give you all of me
And you give me all of you
I give you all, all of me
And you give me all, all of you, oh
The song ended and it took them a minute to separate. They were enjoying these moments that they had alone. They finally separate and went to sit down at their sweetheart table.
They had set up for some Polynesian Island Dancers and Fire Dancers to come and perform. Everyone seemed to enjoy the entertainment.
The D.J. switched the music and the lighting changed for dinner. They had come up with a menu. They were giving their guest options for their starter, main meal, and desert. They had the choice of"
Starter
- Kokoda ceviche citrus cured seafood in coconut salsa
Squid soba noodle salad with wasabi mayonnaise
- Arancini coconut crumbed risotto balls
Main
- NZ beef tenderloin with cassava rosti and thyme jus
- Parmesan crusted Mahi Mahi fish fillet with lemon aioli
- Seafood linguine with pernod cream
Dessert
- Coconut cream caramel with weaved sugar
- Maple pumpkin brulee
- Lemon and lime cheescake with sugar web
The couple ate a little before they went around and mingled with the guest. Olivia was excited to see their doctors and thanked them for saving the both of them. They both had lovely families.
The couple caught up with Cyrus who was now married to a reporter name James Novak. They were cute and it was clear that Cyrus was happy. The couple told them they were moving to California soon. They had opened up a second location in Beverly Hills.
James laughed at how ironic it was. The couple was confused and wasn't sure what caused him to laugh. He explained that about a month ago he was offered an editorial position at the papers. He wanted to take it, but Cyrus didn't want to teach at any of the colleges there.
Fitz & Olivia smiled at each other. They asked Cyrus if he wanted to work for them. They explained Jenny was going to be working there, but once they started having children she wanted to cut her hours back.
They could see the wheels turning in the couples head. James of course was over the moon. Cyrus thought about it and figured it would be a good move. They shook hands on it. They told Cyrus that they planned on opening up the office officially in the next two months. When they got back they would call him and work out the details.
Olivia excused herself and went over to Erin & Kerry. She met Kerry's family. Her daughter was going to keep her daddy very busy. Kerry's husband already knew. They were a lovely couple. Olivia remembered when he played football. He was good and they paid him well.
Kerry & Erin gushed over Olivia's dress and jewelry. They couldn't get over her necklace. She told them it was her something new from Fitz. They could only smile.
Kerry said, "Liv I am so happy for you. I remember when we met and you were still trying to sort out your life. I am glad that you went after your happy. I know it wasn't always easy, but you didn't give up. I respect you."
Olivia became a little choked up. She thanked Kerry for her love and support. She told both her and Erin she looked forward to hanging out with them once she got to California which would be soon. The women were excited. Olivia thanked her for helping to pick the gowns she got to choose from. The one she had on David told Olivia that Erin told him this is her dress. She said she could imagine Olivia in the dress and she was dead on. They talked for a few more minutes before she continued her rounds.
She made it to her moms who looked like they both had won the lottery. To them they had as they watched their babies get married. They knew they would have a grandchild soon and you would hear no complaints from them.
Olivia came over and kissed each of them on their cheek, "Thank you both for everything. I love you so much. Words can not express how I feel right now."
Fitz came behind her and pulled her to him, "Ditto"
They looked at their kids. Maya said, "You don't have to say a thing. We did what any loving parent would do. It was nothing. Seeing you both truly happy is enough for us. We look forward to watching you guys really blossom now."
They hugged their moms. They talked to their friends for a few minutes before they went over to cut the cake.
They had selected a Four Tier Frangipane Waterfall with Pink Ribbons. The layers were lemon pound cake and marble cake with buttercream icing. They lovingly fed each other and ended it with a passionate kiss.
David brought him a microphone so he could make his announcement.
Fitz took the microphone, "I want to thank each of you for making the trip to Fiji. Today has been of the best days of my life. It has been nice spending time with our family and friends celebrating the holidays. Bringing in a New Year. My lovely wife thinks we are headed back home tomorrow, but what is a wedding without a honeymoon. So I would like to let my wife know that tomorrow we will be going on our honeymoon which is a seven-day Blue Lagoon cruise around Fiji so we can enjoy the island now as husband and wife."
Olivia couldn't contain her excitement. Everyone was cheering the new couple. Their wedding night was finally coming to a close. She would forever look forward to January 1st. She was officially Olivia Grant. She had taken his name and she would have it no other way.
They said good-night to their guest and made it back to their bure. It had been set up for them. Believe it or not they were both worn out. They had not slept well the night before. They were glad that the other was okay with getting some rest. Once they boarded the boat they would make up for tonight.
Olivia climbed over to Fitz. She looked down at her hand and admired her rings. She whispered to herself, "I am really Mrs. Grant"
Fitz pulled her closer to him scaring her because she thought he was sleep, "You really are Mrs. Grant and I could not be happier."
They both went to sleep thankful of what they had.
A/N-I was going to split it up, but I decided to write the whole wedding in one sitting. The honeymoon and the move are coming up next. Let me know what you think. I added a link so that you can see her wedding dress. Sorry for any errors that I may have missed. I am a little tied from getting three chapters ready.