Earlier this year I was asked by one of my dearest friends to be her matron of honor for her wedding; I was so excited and honored to be in this role to support Shannon throughout the wedding planning process and couldn’t wait to begin the planning.

And then Tori got sick.

As our world changed, I continued to try to do my best to be as supportive as I could from Pennsylvania despite all of our challenges with our new normal so that her special day would not be hindered by Tori’s situation in any way.

Late this summer, I was talking with Shannon about her wedding and about Tori, and she had an idea that touched my heart deeply: she asked if Tori could be a bridesmaid in her wedding! I was so moved and happily said yes.

Shannon picked out the cutest dress and sweater for Tori to wear, and she even made Tori her own adorable brooch bouquet!

The love that Shannon has for Tori means more than I can express, and having Tori be part of the bridal party with me was priceless.

Tori seemed to enjoy the day as well (until the ceremony – then it was nap time so Daddy took her out into the lobby).

The entire bridal party was so helpful and supportive of Tori and her care throughout the day – Shannon even learned how to suction her! So impressed!

Here are just a few of the amazing pictures that Thomas Beaman Photography captured – I only posted the ones directly related to Tori and me for this post.

Note the bowtie on her giraffe, made by the talented Jana Speck just for the occasion.

Thank you, Shannon and Chad, for allowing Tori to have this honor on your wedding day. I cannot express how much it means to us that you would ask her to be there by your side.