Stedman looked dashing in his black Armani inspired tux as he took his place under the chuppah and waited for his bride.
Cameras flashed as they always do at weddings and the 100 or so guests gushed as Phoenix strolled in looking like royalty in a white toille and silver Iseespot gown and veil.
“Oh there’s the bride,” one of them exclaimed.
No one knew better than Blair Berger and Sarah Segal of the magic that had led to this moment. Over the past months, Stedman and Phoenix had become almost inseparable. Dog had found dog.
“They were always rolling around and wrestling,” Segal said.
But even she found the attraction rather odd. Stedman, after all, was the shy type who had plenty of boy friends but didn't care much for girls. And Phoenix, well, she simply couldn't be bothered with canines of any sort.
The best way to explain the spark that ensued, perhaps, is they were both rescue dogs.
What Berger and Segal knew for sure is that from the moment he laid eyes on her that spring night at his owner's Atlanta Dog Spa, Stedman changed. Wherever Phoenix was, that’s where he was happiest.
Segal and Berger began arranging play dates at their homes, in the park, wherever possible. Their love blossomed like flowers in spring.
On behalf of her 7-year-old beagle, Segal penned an ode to Phoenix the Papitese, pledging his love to her.
"Will you marry me?" he asked.
Phoenix licked his nose yes and that day Segal and Berger set the wedding plans in motion.
The invitation: Blair Berger and Sarah Segal request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their canines Phoenix and Stedman, Saturday Oct. 1, 2011 on the Terrace, Loews Hotel Atlanta.
The event would coincide with Barkworld, a two-day pet social media conference being held that weekend.
In lieu of gifts, they asked guests to make donations to Animal Defenders International, a non-profit that rescues circus animals from deplorable conditions around the world.
Now, before a host of family, friends and canines, Stedman and Phoenix promised to share their hearts, their chewing toys, nap time and walks.
They won't however share their beds, except on weekends.
Paying for a wedding is one thing. But neither owner is willing to take in both Mr. and Mrs. Segal.
