THE MAEWOOD JOURNAL

Sierra & Ben Olsson

Real Weddings

September 9, 2020

If you take care of the little things, the big things

take care of themselves

We had the pleasure of meeting Ben and Sierra in-person for the first time as they walked into the doors of their rehearsal dinner at La Perla. We traveled from Phoenix, Arizona to Eugene, Oregon to capture their sweet love story, and we wouldn’t have traded it for the world! After sneaking outside for a few engagement portraits, we headed back in to family members buzzing with the latest updates and sharing their joy over the next day’s festivities. It didn’t take long before Ben’s dad, Ike, stood up to share a few words of thanks and advice for the couple. Ike’s dad, Ole, Ben’s grandfather, is no longer with us in the flesh, but his spirit is a constant presence in their lives.

Not only do they live by his “Recipe for Success,” but it is hanging all over the walls of their family owned business as a gentle reminder. Mr. Ike stood tall and spoke with confidence as the tears streamed down his face and he shared this exact recipe.

Ole Olssons Recipe for Success

Work Hard, nothing worth having comes easily.

Be Grateful for What You Have even when it doesn’t seem to be enough.

Tell the Truth even if it means losing relationships or business.

Invest in People and join with those who share your values and you will get the best return.

Avoid Debt and spend wisely, be a good steward of what you have.

Allow Relationships to Grow and take time to nurture them.

Don’t be Afraid to Say No, because setting clear boundaries keeps standards high.

Mr. Ike’s speech didn’t end there. His wise words continued as family and friends dabbed the tears streaming from their faces and hung on his every word. He held up his fist and extended his pinky-finger and said, “If you take care of the little things…” and as he extended his ring finger, “The big things will take care of themselves.”

This recipe for success was evident during our entire time with this beautiful family. Their support and love for each other guided every decision and outcome for their wedding day, creating a successful celebration in the midst of a pandemic. The joy and appreciation was felt by every one present.

Congratulations, Ben & Sierra! Live by this recipe, keep family close to your heart, and love unconditionally! Here is to a young love that will stand the tests of time.

Click here to see a sneak-peek of their wedding video, but you have to wait till it is finished to see Sierra in her dress!