When Ivy Jurgensen tied the knot a few weeks ago, she found a unique way to honor all the “father figures” who helped play an important role in her life. The Washington state bride was walked down the aisle by 15 men, all of whom she credits with helping her become the woman she is today. They include her brother, uncle, brother-in-law, family friends, coaches in youth sports and the school resource officer who she credits with helping to save her life as a child.
"They've played huge roles in my life, in protecting and providing for me when I didn't ask them to," Ivy explains. "So for me to honor them and for everyone to see them and who they are to me was very special for me."
The newlywed says the officer who was one of her “father figures” on her wedding day was the one she confided to as a teenager about the abuse she was experiencing at home. Ivy’s father was convicted of rape of a child and child molestation a decade ago and was sentenced to prison. She explains that trusting the school resource officer “was vital in me starting to escape and find justice.” This man also inspired her to become a school resource officer herself.
- Ivy says that because of these 15 men, she was “never alone” during her traumatic childhood, adding, “Without them, I don’t think I’d be where I’m at today in my life.”
Scott's Thoughts:
- I’m not crying, you’re crying!
- I have seen brides, who lost their father in childhood, walk down the aisle with their mom. Which is sweet.
- Did you modify a tradition to make it work better for your wedding? What did you put your own spin on?