Dustyn and Mariama were married atop a grassy knoll, surrounded by a grand dawn landscape, speckled with meadows, fall foliage and rock outcroppings. The views were absolutely legendary. We didn’t see any ponies. Maybe the ponies don’t like cold wind or maybe they’re afraid of weddings. It could be either or neither or both. I’m no pony expert.
The day before, they had pre-staged everything at a top-secret location roughly one mile up the trail to Mount Rogers. We all hiked in in the dark. The old alpine start!
An aside about hiking boots…and if you know me at all, you already know this. If you don’t know me, let me fill you in…I’m at home when I’m in my boots.
Dustyn and Mariama’s ceremony has been described by many, myself included, as quaker-style. “We keep hearing that from everyone. Quaker style.” replied Mariama, shrugging off the fact that they unintentionally planned a psuedo-quaker ceremony. I guess that’s just how cool they are. The quaker ceremony is a wonderfully relaxing alternative to the stiff and repetitive way of getting married. I won’t go into depth on the topic here, but definitely look it up if you’re seeking a no-frills, yet still very meaningful event.
The Grayson Highlands and a Quaker Ceremony at sunrise: 10/10 would highly recommend. Congrats to Dustyn and Mariama!
