Introducing: Duane & Sarah Anoai!

Happy Monday, Ms. Viv ‘Nim Fanaticals!

Well, y’all—it finally happened.

This past Saturday, September 17, 2011, Duane Walter Anoai and Sarah Elizabeth Douglas were joined together in holy matrimony.

The ceremony took place at First Baptist Church of Culver City at 2 p.m., and was performed by Pastor Stanley Richardson. It was reported that earlier in the day, Sarah Elizabeth was a bit frantic on account of the overcast sky, but just an hour and a half before the ceremony, the sun broke through and shone all over Southern California. Coincidentally, it was darn near standing room only in the church.

Aside from the lighting of the unity candle and the exchanging wedding vows, the newlyweds were treated to a beautiful rendition of “At Last,” sung by fellow church member Christina Wallace.

After the ceremony, everyone was invited to congratulate the newlyweds at wedding reception in Long Beach. Perhaps the most poignant moment at the reception was the Father & Daughter Dance. Bret chose the song “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle, and it was agreed that the song was very apropos, especially considering that Bret was very emotional towards the end of the dance. Those in attendance reported that when Bret hugged Sarah, he wouldn't let go. Likewise, Sarah did not want to stop hugging her daddy dearest.

We will have more reports about Duane and Sarah’s wedding throughout the week, but in the meantime, enjoy this trivia.

• Duane’s best man was his younger brother Owen Anoai, and Sarah’s maid of honor was childhood friend Melissa Roberts.


• Duane’s groomsmen were his cousin Andrew Anoai, brother-in-law Howard Douglas, and best friend Craig Perkins.


• Sarah’s bridesmaids were her childhood friends Candace Jones, Natalie Marcellia, and Jessica Torres.


• Duane and Sarah’s wedding dance was to the song “This Is My Promise” by the Temptations.


• As for who caught the bouquet, it was none other than Natalie Marcellia. She didn’t expect to catch it, so needless to say, she was quite surprised.


• There may be another romance in the making—Howard Douglas and Jessica Torres finally shared a sweet kiss. Incidentally, they were paired up during the wedding preparations.