EXECUTIVE EDITOR SUZANNE LOUDERMILK

One of my favorite parts of working on Delaware/Main Line Bride is talking to couples after their weddings. The months of planning are done and the honeymoon is over, but the nuptial glow continues to burn bright. Their happiness just makes me happy.

In this issue, three newlyweds share their stories—and lots of photos—in our “Real Wedding” and “Ever After” features. Each one is romantic and inspiring.

Lance Frazier and Kina Thornton-Frazier of New Castle waited 14 years to officially tie the knot, while Lance pursued a pro football career. Their emotional ceremony brought family and friends together from around the country and Canada. Kina summed up their years togetherin her wedding vows: “That was just the foreword. We’re looking forward to the rest of our chapters.”

Kieran Neeson and Tom Hyland met at the Jersey Shore after college and serendipitously began their careers in New York City, where their relationship blossomed. After Tom’s proposal, Kieran knew there was only one venue for their reception—the elegant Overbrook Golf Club in Villanova. Her parents shared their first dance as a married couple there almost four decades ago. “My family has celebrated every major occasion in our lives at Overbrook,” Kieran says.

Kati Price and Stephen McGovern of Kennett Square headed to the beach for their ceremony at Rehoboth Country Club. They wanted water as a backdrop. Kati remembers the day vividly: “I didn’t have a care in the world. Everything was clear,” she says. “I just wanted to marry him.” As the couple celebrated their first anniversary in September, they were preparing for another glorious event—the birth of twins in December.

Main Line Today contributing editor Tara Behan also gives us a hindsight look at her Philadelphia wedding from a planning perspective. There are several aspects she wishes she’d known ahead of time. Use her cheat sheet to guide you through your own ceremony.

Tara also reminds us in her essay: A honeymoon is a must. Writer Marilyn Odesser-Torpey outlines several nearby destinations that offer a bounty of fun and relaxation with outdoor recreation, the arts, history, great shopping and exceptional food and wine.

We’ve also included stories on custom cocktails by local bartenders, thank-you notes (hint: Do it sooner than later), setting up your wedding registry and tips on writing your own vows. One couple, for instance, wrote their vows separately, but each included six reasons why they loved each other followed by a list of six promises. Essentially, think about why you want to spend the rest of your life with this person.

I’m already starting to plan our spring Bride magazine. I’d love to hear from couples about their weddings. Email me at sloudermilk@todaymediainc.com. In the meantime, may you live happily ever after.