Dear Elle,

13. Together, Forever.

Here comes the bride! xx

Dear Elle,

Today is your wedding day.

I have no doubt that no young lady will look as beautiful as you do today.

Today will be one of the most special and memorable days of your life and I wish I were there to be a part of it. It hurts how much I wish I could see you and be there to support you. I know that you will be surrounded today by those who love you just as much as I do to make sure that everything is perfect....but still, I know you would want your Mum.

My tears are wetting the paper as I write this, because I can picture it. I can picture you. Radiating beauty in your dress. Your smile, as you speak of your groom who awaits you at the end of the aisle.

Even though it didn't last long, you did go through the stage of playing dress ups and you did dress up as a bride. Remember when you used to wrap yourself in toilet paper? Your dress had to have a train that you would make Lee carry. The groom always alternated, but the dress you made was always the same. I'm glad I was able to get a glimpse. You were so confident walking down that pretend aisle, that I have no doubt you can do it again today....just with your Dad by your side and your man, waiting at the end.

I've always loved weddings, my favourite part was watching the bride walk down the aisle, but I always loved watching the reaction of the groom when he first sees his future wife. There is a smile on his face that is so pure and a love in his eyes so deep, that you are sure he just wants to sprint and envelop the bride in his arms.

That's what I hope for you today.

I know your groom loves you with all that he has and all that he is. He is the man of your dreams. I know that maybe at times it hasn't been the easiest and even though you haven't loved him every second of your time together – the happiness has outweighed the negative. Know that every marriage goes through turbulence and know that those people who say that they have the 'perfect marriage' are lying. As long as there is communication – know that you will be able to overcome every hurdle that is thrown at you.

To be loved and to be happy are what you Father and I had wanted for you the moment you were born. It's time for you to start the next chapter of your forever, with him.

With Noah.

So, today I ask you to spend the morning with me. Reading my letters and reflecting on only the happy times.

Know that I am with you, as you get ready.

I am with you in the heirlooms I have left behind.

I am with you in people's smiles.

I am with you in the sun shining.

Let the champagne flow and know that nerves are normal. They are what makes you feel human. Know that your husband is probably feeling them as well – most likely he is asking himself 'Am I good enough to deserve her?' and the answer.

He is.

Make sure your hair and makeup are perfect before slipping on your dress and feeling like a princess. Smile. Enjoy every moment because it's true what they say – the day goes so very fast and you wish you could relieve it.