Most little girls dream of the day when their dad walks them down the aisle – but I never really did. Growing up my mom was the constant in my life and not only was she the provider and caregiver to me and my 2 younger siblings at the time, but she was also my best friend. When the thought of my wedding crossed my mind as a little girl, I would think of all of the things that my mom would do with me; pick out my dress, decorate, and help me get ready. My relationship with my mom hasn’t changed and I still want her there for every part of that special day, but I now have someone else dear to me who I want to share that special day with..

My Dad.

My mom married when I was in 7^th grade and I was too young to appreciate the wonderful person that I now call my dad. He has gone to my sporting events, put me through private school and college, helped me accomplish my goals, and supported my dreams. Although he missed out on the first half of my childhood, he has been there for every other detail of my life.

As my wedding grows closer, I have started to think of all the things I will share with him on that special day; the first time he sees me in my dress, our time together as he walks me down the aisle, and sharing our father-daughter dance together. I may not be his little girl that he has watched grow up and even though he wasn’t able to see me take my first steps, teach me how to ride a bike, or help me with my homework in grade school, he has been there for me day in and day out. Everything he does, he does to love and support his family.

I am forever grateful that this is the man that gets to walk me down the aisle and help me prepare for the beginning of the rest of my life. If it were not for the wonderful example of hard work and love that he and my mom have shown me, I know that my walk down the aisle to marry the love of my life would not be a possibility.

He is and always will be the dad that he didn’t have to be, and I’m so blessed that he is mine.