Crown of Beauty: How did you guys meet? What happened? Did sparks fly right away? Or was it more of a gradual process of getting to know one another?
Kari: Cody and I met at Church years ago. I was looking for an acoustic guitar player and singer to travel with me. We were just really good friends for a few years without any actual romantic feelings for each other. Those came about 4 years after building a friendship. I love that it happened this way because it’s really special to marry your best friend. Someone you know really well and who is passionate about many of the same things you are. I didn’t have to try and get to know him once we were married, and there’s a comfort in that.
Crown of Beauty: How did you know that Cody was the one God had chosen for you?
Kari: I had peace to my very core. As I took a step back and looked out our callings, paths, and passions I just really knew that we seemed perfect for each other. His pursuit of me caused me to fall for him as well. He swept me off my feet. (Insert girls saying “awww”.. haha)
Crown of Beauty: Let's fast forward to the wedding day! If it's at all possible, can you put that day into words?
Kari: It was a dream come true. There were things that happened that day that I had forgotten were important to me, but God saw to it that they happened. Just sweet little things. It was 100% worth it to wait for God’s man for me.
Crown of Beauty: What was your favorite element of your wedding day (besides actually getting married, of course!) The dress? The cake? The decorations?
Kari: Everything. I had put so much thought into every detail. My wedding was like a Fall garden inside the church. I stood under a chandelier to get married as well. I loved everything.
Crown of Beauty: Any advice for girls who are planning their weddings right now?
Kari: Follow your heart. Remember you’re the bride and it’s your big day, and take a moment all throughout your day to just capture each moment in your mind. Don’t allow anyone to bring stress to your big day. Cast the vision prior to the day and bathe it in prayer. It will be so sweet.
Crown of Beauty: When did your love story with Jesus first begin?
Kari: I got saved when I was 5 years old. I started going to a spirit-filled church when I was about 10 and fell in love with the presence of God. The best thing you can learn to do for your life is to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit.
Crown of Beauty: What is the biggest thing that you've learned about the character of Christ over the years that has caused you to fall deeper in love with Him?