St. Martin’s, New Brunswick Elopement
“to the arms of the same sea”
Ashley and Justin chose to travel from their home in Ontario to the picturesque shores of St. Martin's in New Brunswick to elope—to begin the next chapter in their enduring love story that began in high school and blossomed in the years following. Overlooking the breathtaking Bay of Fundy, they stood hand in hand with their best friends standing by as witnesses as Jess led them through a ceremony that was both heartfelt and poignant.
In their ceremony script, Jess weaved together words that were not only informed by Ashley and Justin's love story but also deeply inspired by their unwavering commitment to each other.
As the sun danced back and forth behind the clouds, the waves ebbed and flowed below them, and the Quaco Head Lighthouse stood guard, their ceremony—the heart of a wedding day, in this idyllic setting painted a picture of a love that was destined to transcend anything that might come their way.
A few words from their custom ceremony written and officiant by Jess:
“Ashley & Justin, what an incredible space to welcome one another into marriage today. You have traveled far to be here together, you’ve created an intimate space with close friends by your side, you’ve thoughtfully planned and prepared, and now you are here, standing near/over the water's edge, as the sun shines over the sea. Today, the clouds have gathered with us, but we know that even on those days when the sun’s beams are hidden by the weather, the sun is still there, providing warmth and subsistence. Justin and Ashley, may this truth we find in nature and recognize in this moment, provide a symbol of the truth of your love for each other. May you stand secure today, knowing that no matter what kind of weather life brings you, your love for each other will be there, providing light and warmth through it all.”
“Ashley and Justin… this is your story, and it’s a good one. You have grown together over time. You’ve worked hard to love and support each other. You’ve chosen to see the glass half full, and you’ve done it together. “
After pronouncing Ashley and Justing married under the grandeur of the Quaco Head Lighthouse and beside the breathtaking scenery of the Bay of Fundy, Jess left the newlyweds with this parting blessing—the words of one of Ashley’s favourite songs by Light:
“When the currents take us out again
to opposite oceans
Out of the hands of safety
From the shallows to the deepest end
Places we break and bend
You're the one in it with me
No matter how far we get
Oceans we are in still connect
And when the currents circle back again
They'll carry us with them
to the arms of the same sea
The tides were carried in,
the lakes they take us to
They come around again
and bring me back to you…
They carry us with them
to the arms of the same sea
the arms of the same sea
the arms of the same sea”
