Returning to the same place where their love story began 50 years ago, an Iowa couple decided to celebrate their enduring love by recreating their wedding from 1971. It was Carolyn’s idea to surprise her husband, Kelly, on their milestone anniversary with a photo session that closely mirrored their wedding day. She even dug out her old wedding dress, which had only cost her less than $50 back in 1971. Over the past five decades, the couple has built a beautiful family, faced challenges, and even survived health scares. In fact, Carolyn, a cancer survivor, owes her life to a kidney transplant that saved Kelly’s life, ensuring that they could celebrate their 50th anniversary together.
In 2021, three years before their golden anniversary, Carolyn was inspired to recreate their wedding photos from 1971. Initially, she considered just going out for a nice dinner, but she quickly realized that not many couples can say they have been together for 50 years. According to the US Census Bureau, the average length of a marriage is just 8.2 years. So, Carolyn decided to go all out and make their anniversary truly special. She reached out to her photographer friend, Sam Holye, who gladly agreed to capture the moment. Carolyn also secured the venue, the DSM Church in Des Moines, Iowa, where they had originally tied the knot. And she spent the next three years growing out her hair to match its length in their original wedding photos.
Finally, in 2021, Carolyn surprised her unsuspecting husband with the grand gesture. Kelly was speechless and deeply touched by Carolyn’s thoughtfulness. They dressed in their wedding attire, with Carolyn donning her old wedding dress and veil, which, with alterations, cost less than $100. They posed exactly as they had 50 years ago, down to the smallest details like candles, Carolyn’s garter belt, and ballet-like shoes. The photos beautifully captured the loving glances and the deep connection shared between the couple.
“People are looking for good news and something to aspire to,” said photographer Sam Holye. “What better to aspire to than a happy couple 50 years on from their original wedding date lovingly looking at each other again like it was their first day? Hopefully, that comes through in the pictures.”
The love that shines through in these photos is a testament to the couple’s enduring strength and resilience. They have overcome so much together, including Carolyn’s battle with breast cancer and Kelly’s desperate need for a kidney transplant. Kelly vividly remembers the day he learned he needed a new kidney to live. The doctor told him, “I wouldn’t touch you with a 10-foot pole.” He was referred to a kidney specialist who confirmed the need for a transplant. Thankfully, Kelly’s son was a match, and the transplant was a success.
“I had my husband getting a kidney and my son giving the kidney both at the same time,” Carolyn recalls. Without the selfless gift from their son, Kelly would not have made it to their 50th anniversary. Now, 52 years into their marriage, Carolyn and Kelly continue to celebrate their love. We wish them many more years of happiness, health, and togetherness and thank them for sharing their beautiful story with the world!
If you enjoyed this heartwarming story about a couple’s 50th wedding anniversary, you might also enjoy reading about Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter celebrating their 77th anniversary or the heartwarming story of an elderly couple celebrating their 72nd anniversary with a memorable meal at their local Chick-fil-A.
