Toni Withers and Samuel Stewart, Jr. were both widowed after having been married for many years, but when they met at a friend’s karaoke party there was instant chemistry. They discovered that they were both very family-oriented and loved karaoke, music, and dancing. Most importantly, they held the same spiritual and moral values, both being Jehovah’s Witnesses. After a period of dating, Toni and Samuel were positive that true love had found them again, and they had a beautiful, standing room only wedding in front of over 300 family members and friends.
Their inspiring nuptials were photographed by Esmee Kyles of Incredibly Wee Photography who had this to share about the Stewart’s touching union,” The attendants (bridesmaids and ushers) included their adult children, grandchildren, and close family friends. Toni’s son gave her away. After they exchanged vows, the reception immediately followed at the McWherter Senior Center in Memphis, a community room. The maid of honor sang “Inseparable” by Natalie Cole while the couple had their first dance. Then there were two very emotional dances, one by the bride and her two adult children, and another by the groom and his daughter. Having both lost their parents in death, this wedding was emotional for the children who were now accepting a new union and a new life for their surviving parents. The happy couple also danced to an upbeat song, which is typical of the fun-loving type of people they both are, and the grandchildren were all cheering for her, shouting “Go Grandma! Go Grandma!” It was so sweet. All in all, it was a very nice, family oriented, simple and classy ceremony and reception. Not a lot of décor, not a lot of outside vendors and suppliers used. Most of the work was done by family and close family friends local to Memphis.” The Stewart’s wedding proves that love knows no age. We wish this beautiful couple all the best!
Quick Facts
- Wedding Date: 02/15/2014
- Wedding Location: Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Memphis, TN
- Wedding Flowers: Calla Lilies
- First Dance Song: “Inseparable” by Natalie Cole sung by Marilyn Phillips
- Wedding Cake Flavors: Strawberry, Lemon and white cake with white icing.
- Wedding Menu Favorite: Grilled chicken breast and pulled pork.
Wedding Theme
Our children and grandchildren all had a role in our wedding. Our granddaughters all wore white, and our grandsons wore black suits with purple bow-ties.
Wedding Style
My wedding dress was a champagne colored strapless dress with a lace cover.
Most Memorable Moment
We married our best friend, with the love and support from our families and friends. We danced the night away.
Wedding Advice
Don’t get too complicated. Keep it simple but elegant. Hire or assign a wedding coordinator and caterer that can work together. By all means delegate.
Vendors
- Catering: Yvonna’s Catering
- Photography: Esmee Kyles for Incredibly Wee Photography
- Design: www.partyconcepts.net
- Bride’s Dress: Donna at Unique Bridal Boutique
Felicity Ro
Wow! The emotion she captured made it hard for me to fight back tears. What a lovely, enduring story, both in real life and as seen and told through the photos!
G. Elizabeth Austin
This was a beautiful day, the love permiated each room. Emotions ran high when the parents danced with their children.
Just2LLs
These are incredibly beautiful pictures. The emotions captured made me feel as though i was there. I held back tears, especially the pictures of the daughters dancing with their parents. This was a beautiful story and delightful pictures taken. Hope to see more from this Mrs. Kyles!!
Big Mike
Thanks for providing the pictures , I am happy for you Sam (brother brother). She looks gorgeous and happy. You deserve peace and happiness my brother. We sure miss you here in Bethel , Ohio. It was an honor to get to know such a qualified Brother and a good example of a Friend. I will come and see you some day and I look forward to meeting your lovely Bride. Things are looking up here for work, so I’ll be in vacation mode before you know it.
Agape~
BigMike
Shelia Jones
Elegant, beautiful, & classy!!!
Lesley
What a beautiful story! I’ve known Toni for a long time, and it is a joy to see Jehovah’s blessing upon her. I’ve not been fortunate to meet our dear brother, but from the look on Toni’s face, he must truly be special. Congrats!