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PrintLillie Kraver and Michael Eubanks
March 7, 2011
Hoogs Photography
On March 7, 2011, in the beauty of the setting sun on Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, Lillie Christina Kraver became the bride of Michael Scott Eubanks Jr. The two began their relationship at the tender age of 14 when they met at Mobile Christian School. After graduating from college, they reconnected and rekindled their love. On the steps of the family summer home on Dauphin Island, where they had spent so many memorable moments as young sweethearts, Michael proposed July 2, 2010.
The Hale Kai Estate of Mitch and Sissy Lattof on the Big Island of Hawaii was chosen as the wedding location. Hale Kai is landscaped with beautiful tropical gardens and palm trees, including the arched tree under which actor John Wayne was married in the early 1960s.
Hawaiian Royalty, including King Kamehameha I himself, once resided here as well. The estate is partially nestled in Keauhou Bay with its beautiful sapphire waters spilling out into the sparkling deep blue Pacific Ocean. The atmosphere of Hale Kai is classic “Old Hawaii.” It is as if you’re a million miles from anywhere, and you’ve gone 50 years back in time. The natural beauty is only enhanced by the constant sounds of the breaking waves, chirping of birds and the occasional visit from sea turtles!
The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Walton Kraver Jr. and the granddaughter of Walton Kraver, the late Gloria G. Kraver, Kent and Angela Seaman, Milo and Delores Davis and great granddaughter of John Adam and the late Marian Bryant Adam.
The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Scott Eubanks Sr. and grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Jerrold Eubanks, Mr. and Mrs. Lamar Harrison, and the late Marceil Harrison.
The couple chose Minister Terry Cagle, of Azalea City Church of Christ, to officiate the ceremony. His presence was significant as Terry was Michael and Tina’s high school Bible teacher.
Given in marriage by her father, the bride chose her cousin, Samantha Lauren Kraver as her maid of honor. Bridesmaids were sister of the groom, Kristin Eubanks Hatcher, and cousin of the groom, Ashley May Barnes. The groom chose his father as his best man. Groomsmen were brother of the bride, Charles Walton Kraver III, and brother-in-law Timothy Brian Hatcher.
Honored guests who also made the journey to Hawaii were Frank and Sachi Kawana, JoAnn Rippy, Lisha May, Josh and Lori Alderman, Daphne Seaman and Michael McDonald. The Hawaiian ohana (family) included George and Sharon Handgis.
The ceremony began with the Hawaiian tradition of the blowing of the conch shell. The couple found it fitting to enter into a salt covenant since the islands naturally produce salt. Salt covenants were traditionally done in Bible times to signify a covenant of loyalty.
The reception opened with a torch lighting ceremony, a prayer and an exchange of leis. The circle of the lei represents something never ending and the aroma of the flower signifies something never forgotten. Each guest enjoyed a specially prepared meal of Filet Mignon and Ono by local chef Katherine, of Outrageous Gourmet. The most memorable part of the evening came after dinner. Each of the men in the family stood and toasted the newlyweds with personal blessings, wisdom and advice for a happy, successful future.
A private Polynesian luau served as entertainment for the evening with some family members performing their Southern-style, hula. Highlights included the couples first dance, father and daughter dance and Samoan fire dancers.
The couple honeymooned in Maui and now resides in Wilmer, Ala.
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