Celebrating the start of a new chapter with a loved one at their wedding is a truly special moment.
Guests at the wedding of USMC Sgt. Joshua Newville and Senior Airman Emily Leehan anticipated a joyful celebration, and they certainly got that. But what they witnessed was an unforgettable moment that will stay with them forever.
During the ceremony, Leehan surprised everyone by reading vows she had written for her stepson, Gage. The sweet little boy couldn’t contain his excitement as he watched his dad get married, and it was clear that he not only embraced his future mother, but was thrilled about his dad’s choice.
As Leehan noticed Gage’s wide-eyed gaze, she turned to him and began reading their wedding vows aloud.
The room was filled with a collective “awww” as her heartfelt words left everyone teary-eyed. While the entire crowd was overcome with emotion, it was Gage’s sweet reaction that truly stole the show.
The little boy sobbed uncontrollably, clinging to his stepmother as he listened to her vows.
“I want you to be safe, try your hardest, and always be a good person,” Leehan said, gently comforting him. Noticing how overwhelming the moment was for him, she softly added, “Don’t cry, baby.”
“The last thing I want you to know is that you are a truly special boy,” Leehan continued.
“You are incredibly smart, handsome, and so kind to others. You’ve helped shape me into the woman I am today. While I may not have given you the gift of life, life certainly gave me the gift of you.”
After taking a moment to gather themselves, the couple exchanged their vows.
It was later shared that the newlyweds went straight back to work following the ceremony.
Both were required to return to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, so their honeymoon plans had to be postponed.
Watch the heartwarming moment between the stepmother and stepson in the clip below.
