TAMPA, Fla. (February 15, 2018) – The Watermark at Trinity, an assisted living and memory care community located in Pasco County, hosted a Vegas-style vow renewal ceremony on February 14 for 12 couples who call the community home. Included in the group are Michael and Mary Young, who will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary this year.
“With so many couples living at The Watermark at Trinity, a vow renewal ceremony seemed like the perfect way to celebrate love this Valentine’s Day,” said Christina Barzelay, community life director at The Watermark at Trinity. “Our active group of residents were so thrilled for this fun Las Vegas-themed event that had something fun for the whole community.”
Residents’ families and friends were invited to attend the ceremony, which featured an Elvis impersonator as the officiant, a Vegas-style balloon arch and wedding cake and a champagne toast for everyone present. The blushing brides were also treated to hair and makeup from a local Mary Kay consultant, and a local photographer was present to capture all of the big moments – from getting ready, to family photos and cutting the cake – all surrounded by friends and neighbors.
“It’s so inspiring to see the lasting love of our couples being lived out each and every day,” said Barzelay. “Planning this event was a joy for everyone involved and it was so great to celebrate our couples’ commitment in a fun and meaningful way.”
When asked their secret to a long and happy marriage, the residents had this to say:
” “Communicate, listen, make an equal partnership, and laugh a lot. Don’t be afraid to kiss in public. Show your love in some way every day. Remember that nobody’s perfect.” – Carole, married for 47 years.
” “Don’t talk down to each other. Fulfill their needs. Like the same things.” – Thelma, married for 25 years.
” “Make sure to love and cherish each other. Have a good family and be nice to everyone.” – Audrey, married for 66 years.
” “Don’t argue over little things and never go to bed mad.” – Jean, married for 67 years.
” “Have love and respect for one another and everything else will fall into place.” – George, married for 13 years.
” “Lots of love.” – Chuck, married for 66 years.
Joining the couples were also Michelina Damianakis as the flower girl and her brother Dominic as the ring bearer. Last year, Michelina was named The Watermark at Trinity’s latest Watermark Kid and was awarded a check for $1,000 to support her organization called Floppies, which provides toys for children at John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. She is an avid volunteer at the community, where her mother teaches art and exercise classes.
About The Watermark at Trinity
Located in Trinity, Fla., The Watermark at Trinity is a 117-residence retirement community offering assisted living and memory care y in the Pasco County suburb of Trinity. Differentiators of the new community include certified associates, continuous care and hands-on educational programming. Owned and managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, The Watermark at Trinity is committed to creating an extraordinary community where people thrive. To learn more visit www.WatermarkCommunities.com.