A Wedding for Belle (2025) Movie Script

(majestic music)
(projector clicking, whirring)
(uplifting music)
Annabelle!
Annabelle!
They're coming!
The bell!
They're coming!
The bell!
Ring the bell!
Ring the bell!
(bell chiming)
(cheering)
(applause)
Hey!
(guitar music)
You forgot to charge
the walkies.
Oh.
Sorry.
I didn't mean to.
(cheering)
Do you...
think that'll be you someday?
Only if I find my soul mate.
Is that it?
Lucas...
Your dad's looking for you
back at the Grand Holland.
Yes, sir.
Well, I thought
we'd have more time
before I needed
to have the boy talk.
Ew, Dad, no, stop.
It's just...
Do you think I'll ever find
my soul mate?
Soul mate? Lord Almighty.
Can we just at least start
with the boy talk?
Helping out with the weddings
at the Grand Holland,
I'm usually stuck
in the bell tower.
Well, that sounds
like the beginning
of a fairy tale to me,
and you know how fairy tales
always end.
Happily ever after.
Pfft.
You know, the funny thing
about happily ever after,
it's...
Well, it's built
one moment at a time.
(gentle music)
How'd you know
Mom was your soul mate?
She'll have to tell you
that story.
Uh, for now, just know
you're gonna make
the most incredible bride
and so much more.
Tell you what.
Look at this, it's just
a regular coin, right?
Ah, but...
Press it tightly.
I can press in
my most powerful dreams and...
make a wish.
Here, you try.
So, concentrate
and close your eyes.
(splashing)
What did you wish for, Dad?
(uplifting music)
For you, darling...
so many things.
- Hey, Belle.
- I'm busy.
- Like, busy-busy or just...
- The purchaser's here next week,
and we don't have anything
to proof.
Oh, is that why you're working
on your own wedding vision board
instead of the Timeless Bride
summer centerfold?
- I'm manifesting.
- Manifesting...
Good vibes, the future,
I don't know.
It's more of an art
than science.
Sometimes, you have to focus
on other things
so that you can get inspiration.
It's a thing.
It's more
like a very flowery way
to describe not doing your job.
I liked you better as an intern.
Well, then, you shouldn't
have promoted me.
Riley, it is not my fault
that 15 percent of the time
you are a diligent
and seriously intelligent
young woman.
Fifteen whole percent?
This is a good day for me.
Will you shush?
I work in bridal excellence,
and I am self-actualizing
bridal elegance.
What could be more important?
Cage never turned in
his article.
What?
- Then, what went out today?
- So far?
Nothing.
Okay, uh...
Oof.
(beeping)
(jazz music)
- Cage?
- Yes?
Where's my article, Cage?
I'm under water
on design layouts
and prepping
for the engagement ring
photo shoot tomorrow.
Okay, well, what about
your invitation QR code piece?
This shoot will wrap
a four-page spread.
I've got no time.
Okay, it's... it's fine.
It's... it's fine, I'll take it.
Um, do you have an outline
or anything on QR codes?
They're little squares
inside of even smaller squares
inside of those squares.
Inspiring stuff.
It's cute, okay, thank you.
I'm a photographer,
not a writer, ladies.
I know we're all feeling
the short staff
while we wait
for the new editor in chief,
but I've got deadlines, too.
It's fine, it's fine,
I'll take it, um...
Just bring me back
some magic, will ya?
Abracadabra.
Okay, the invitations
are a tool,
and the most important thing
about a tool is how you use it.
They're... they're elegant,
they're seamless,
they're streamlined.
A little peace of mind
on the most important
day of your life
with the scan of your phone.
Was I supposed to be
taking notes?
You know what?
Just get back out there.
I need something light and fun
on socials ASAP, okay?
Oh, you mean like
the top five goodest girl
flower girl puppies?
(soft music)
That might be the best idea
you've ever had.
Yes, that, and tag
a local animal shelter.
Let's do some good
while we're at it.
On it!
Okay.
(cellphone ringing)
Hi, honey.
Hey, Annabelle.
We still on for tonight?
Got two tickets
at the Chef's Counter Kitetsu
for 7:30.
A little omakase
with my fiance?
Mother did us a huge favor
getting us in last minute.
That sounds so perfect, but, um,
I... I can't tonight.
Deadlines are
right on top of us.
What?
No, put Riley on the phone,
I'm getting you out of it.
No, no, no, no,
it's nobody's fault.
I'm just... I... I'm too busy.
Oof.
I knew things were bad,
but not that bad.
Yeah.
We'll do date night
next week, okay?
I promise.
(soft guitar music)
So, I'm destined for
a sushi less night without you?
Yeah, I'm sorry.
Look, I gotta go, okay?
I'll talk to you later.
Bye, honey.
Okay.
(cellphone ringing)
(soft music)
- Hi, Mom!
- Belle,
I didn't hear from you
yesterday.
Is everything going okay?
I... I know, I know,
um, I'm sorry.
It's just it's been
so busy at work.
Everything's crazy, and I just
haven't had time to...
Honey, those are
usually the best times
to make time for yourself.
Yeah, I know, I know.
Um, look, I... I really gotta go,
um, but I'll... I'll call you
soon, okay?
Okay, but if I don't hear
from you by the weekend,
I'm gonna call you back
and you're...
Okay, I love you, Mom,
I'll talk to you soon.
Okay, bye. Bye, bye, bye.
(sighing)
Okay.
Okay.
QR codes.
(mellow music)
Surprise!
(computer thwacking)
Oh. Oh, um, uh,
I totally thought
that you would love this.
Um, we canceled date night,
so I thought I'd bring
date night to you.
I don't know
whether to kiss you or kill you.
I have a pretty strong opinion
on the matter.
Mm.
(soft music)
What is all this?
Well, I couldn't decide
what to eat, so I figured...
Is that pizza from Nesto's?
That's the one you like, right?
- Uh-huh.
- I mean, well, pizza
is not even the best part.
Oh?
I got you something.
(glass clinking)
Pink and sweet and a twist-off.
- Your favorite.
- Thank you,
I really needed this.
Well, unfortunately...
the food is cold.
But just imagine hours ago
when this was
a wildly romantic gesture
from your incredibly handsome
and loving fianc.
It is incredible.
Really, it's, um, it's...
You... you ate without me.
Yeah, it's almost 10:00.
This isn't Nesto's.
This is Tony's, and you put
pineapple on the pizza.
I mean, pineapple really is
the most sophisticated
pizza topping.
No, no, thank you.
This is, um, this is great.
I'm exhausted,
and I'm starving, so...
It's wonderful.
Look, I know things are tense
over at Timeless...
I've had a really long day,
I don't want to talk...
The whole emergency
board meeting.
What?
What board meeting?
(suspenseful music)
(heels clicking)
Have you heard anything yet?
No, nothing.
And I have been snooping
all morning.
You're the best snoop
in the office.
How do you have nothing?
All I can confirm is
that there was a board meeting,
but Cage couldn't say anything.
I know things
haven't been great lately,
but that's an industry thing,
that's not an us thing.
Unless it's more about...
No, no, no, no,
no, don't do that.
The board would have to meet
to confirm a candidate
for editor in chief,
and the position's
been empty for months.
(distant telephone ringing)
Are those donuts or bagels?
Cheese Danishes.
Sometimes, I think you know me
better than I know myself.
But we cannot be speculating
about promotions
or anything that may
or may not be happening.
Boss lady wants to see you.
Not you.
(soft music)
Annabelle.
What are you doing here?
Uh, hi.
I was just in the neighborhood
to see Mother.
Wait, you talked to Patricia
before I did?
Why would you do that?
Honey, it's news,
it's good news.
Come on, wipe that adorable,
confused look off your face.
It's all good.
And remember, stand up straight.
You know how my mother is
about posture.
Right, yeah, um...
Honey, she's my boss.
You can't just
come in here and...
And your future mother-in-law.
It's what's called
having a vested interest.
Right, yeah.
Hey, you're gonna be great.
- Yeah?
- Yeah, okay.
- Okay, bye.
- Bye.
(door opening)
Oh, Annabelle, come in.
You look marvelous, as always.
Positively glowing.
You're too kind.
On the other hand, Matthew
has gotten a little paunchy
since the two of you
started going together.
You really do need to learn
to run him occasionally,
and I say that
with all due respect
and love in my heart,
but he won't do it for himself.
- I will keep that in mind.
- Mm, yes.
Oh, please, have a seat.
Can I get you something?
- A sparkling...
- No, no, I'm good, thank you.
I'm just curious.
Of course,
it's a small building.
- People talk.
- Yeah.
Um, what was Matthew doing here?
Things are not going well
at Timeless Bride.
Another casualty
of your generation.
Diamonds, weddings, romance.
Print media.
Not you, my dear, of course,
but the broader they.
Do you know why the job
of editor in chief
has remained vacant
for three months?
Um, because you haven't found
the right candidate?
It's because the magazine
is a sinking ship.
(soft, tense music)
Is that why the board was here?
They felt it necessary
to underline the severity
of the situation.
Circulation is down.
Advertisers are pulling out.
We, the publisher, will survive,
but the brand and magazine
will be scrapped for parts
and sold to the highest bidder
unless...
Unless?
Unless we make a statement.
Something capable of creating
a massive, viral groundswell.
We need to return to our roots
and explore the beating heart
of the brand.
The wedding as a tangible
expression of mutual adoration,
as unique and undefinable
as the woman
who wears the dress.
Right, yeah, um...
It's just the thing is,
we're up against the wall
with print deadlines already.
I mean, we have less
than a month to get...
We're eyeing
an internal candidate
for editor in chief.
Um...
What are you saying?
Someone who can be
the face of the brand
and lead us on
a truly unforgettable journey.
Um...
Sorry, but why was Matthew here?
Well, you were planning
on getting married next spring.
He suggested that we might
move up the date.
Document everything,
share everything.
You always said
you had to get married
in that one-horse town of yours,
the Great Dutchman, whatever,
and that's perfect.
Intimate, elegant,
authentic, honest.
(chuckling)
No, uh, Patricia,
my wedding is not a PR stunt.
It's for love,
to your son and...
you can't put a wedding
together in a month.
- You have three weeks.
- No.
N... no, I'm sorry,
I can't do that.
It's your two biggest dreams
coming true at once.
That is
a major oversimplification.
That's... that's just happening
way too fast.
It's crazy.
The ship is going down
whether you want it to or not.
(moody music)
Um...
Where do we start?
Yes, yes, give me
kitty-cat hands.
(hissing)
More with the eyes.
Now, drop the hands,
keep the eyes.
Take us there. Go!
(camera shutter clicking)
Maybe give us something.
You look hungry, or bored,
or confused, or...
Ahem.
Please.
Sorry, lady, gentle...
Um, can I have a word?
Belle, oh, Belle,
anything for you.
Great.
(funky music)
Just a moment.
Right.
Keep that kitty-cat magic.
I thought this was
a wedding ring shoot.
Why are they in full wardrobe?
I already got the ring shots.
We have them all day.
Might as well make
some memories.
Besides,
now that they're in full gear,
they're giving me everything.
Aren't you, love?
Yeah! That's right.
I believe you.
Great work, keep it up.
Okay, um, you know how I said
that I wanted you
to shoot my wedding?
I am honored to be part
of the Annabelle experience.
Well, we're moving the date up
quite a bit.
(soft music)
What do you mean "quite a bit"?
Can I level with you?
I insist.
There might not be
a Timeless Bride
after this summer issue
if we can't pull off
something huge.
Whoo.
Gonna want to submit
those invoices
before they slap
the "for sale" sign
- on the building.
- I'm being serious.
I'm serious.
We're going full tilt
on the media angle,
try and see if we can pull
the magazine out of a nose dive,
so, we need an event.
Big statement, so...
While pulling off
your dream wedding
simultaneously.
Not too much for a bride
to ask for, is it?
Uh, we have three weeks.
We leave tomorrow.
So, um, saddle up.
Hey, I used to shoot
indie documentaries.
My horse is out back
raring to go.
That's great, Cage...
Uh, Riley is gonna be
your right-hand man.
That human ring light?
We need a direct feed
in the editorial
and she's a Swiss Army knife
at aesthetics.
Just be gentle.
I am working on her.
Okay.
Who's driving?
Are you kidding?
I'm the bride.
You're driving.
Where are my kittens?
(funky music)
(knocking)
- Hey.
- Hey.
(gentle music)
Hi.
(door closing)
I wanted to be here
for your big send-off.
That's sweet.
Um, I wish you talked to me
about all of this
before setting it in motion.
I wanted to tee up your dream.
Our dream.
Yeah, I just wish
you talked to me, that's all.
Hey, hey, hey, hey.
Please, please, please
don't leave like this.
This is gonna be incredible.
And I know you're stressed.
It's gonna be amazing.
I promise.
I love you.
I love you, too.
(horn blaring)
Get in, loser.
Your carriage awaits.
(cellphone beeping)
All right.
We are really doing this.
(text message whooshing)
I'll be down in a few days
to help out with everything.
Okay.
- It'll be great.
- Yeah.
You'll see.
- I'll see you soon.
- Bye.
All right, minions, let's go.
(funky music)
Oh, Cage,
this music is terrible.
You don't drive like it.
Straight.
(insects chirring)
Yeah.
Cold and miserable.
Why couldn't we just fly in?
Because it's actually faster
to drive.
You know,
the nearest airport is...
Okay, well, you should
really work on having
more conveniently located
dreams.
And miss the brilliant insight
into your boss's personal life?
Work-life balance, people.
Okay, can we just pretend
to be a happy family
for five minutes,
and then you guys
can go back to the hotel
and unload the gear, okay?
Mom!
A phone call
wouldn't have killed you.
What?
First, you rush me
off the phone,
and then you leave me
a cryptic text,
and now you are here?
Um...
Well, I'm sorry,
I just... I didn't
really have time to explain.
No time on a five-hour drive?
Well, um...
Where are my manners?
Hello to you two
wonderful strangers.
You must be exhausted,
come on in.
Do you need some coffee,
water, juice?
How 'bout a little wine?
Wouldn't say no to coffee.
Bridal prerogative has had me
in the driver's seat all day.
Excellent, I'll put a pot on.
And how about for you, hon?
Wine. All your wine.
Juice for the little one.
(soft music)
Mom, I'm sorry, I've just been
so busy with deadlines.
Oh, say no more, Belle.
A mother always knows.
Yeah, well, uh, this time,
I really doubt it.
I knew that it was
just a matter of time
before you came to your senses.
Excuse me?
Honey, I've been saying it
since the very beginning.
There's something wrong
with that man.
I mean, don't get me wrong,
he is quite the looker,
but upstairs,
where it really counts,
he's as helpless as your...
Mom, what are you talking about?
That's why you're here,
isn't it?
You've left what's his face?
Matthew.
What?
Wait, that isn't
what's happening?
Then, why are you
suddenly in town?
We're not calling anything off.
Matthew and I are in love.
The wedding is happening, Mom.
We moved up the date.
That is why I am here.
Well, I think
I'm gonna have to join you
for this glass of juice.
Mom!
(sighing)
What's your Wi-Fi password?
Here's your Wi-Fi password.
Can't believe you just assumed
we broke up.
Easy, it's a harmless mistake.
Harmless. Really?
You caught me off guard is all.
That's why
you should have called.
I thought that you had news
that you could only deliver
in person.
I thought that it was
either a breakup or a baby,
and you're looking
a little thin.
Wow.
Now, then, don't keep me
in suspense.
Who are you friends?
Mom, this is Riley and Cage
from the magazine.
They're here to film
the wedding process
from start to finish.
Jeez, how much did you two
move up the date
that you already have
a video crew?
- Three weeks.
- Oh, three weeks.
That's not so bad.
There's still plenty of time...
No, no, the wedding happens
in three weeks.
Oh, my, that's...
A lot, I know, Mom.
Look, Timeless Bride
is in trouble, okay?
And we're taking a big risk
opening up our lives
to the magazine,
but we believe in it.
I... I believe in it.
Mr. Cage, how do you take
your coffee?
Black is fine.
Well, you might be in
for a bit of luck.
Word around town is
that the Grand Holland
just sold last month.
They haven't opened up
for bookings, but...
That's amazing.
I can't believe they'd sell.
Who bought it?
Who knows?
I'll give 'em a call.
And the perks
of living in a small town?
If they don't answer,
I know someone
who knows someone
who can get us in.
We'll see for ourselves
tomorrow.
That would be great.
Honestly, getting the Holland
has been my biggest concern.
(majestic music)
Will your entourage
be joining us?
Wouldn't miss it for the world.
And I am contractually obligated
to go wherever he goes.
Hurry up, I want
to shower off this car ride.
- Yeah, yeah.
- All this coworker stuff
is, honestly, just...
One sec.
There. Done.
(soft music)
You're helping me
unload the gear
when we get to the hotel.
"You're helping load the gear
when we get to the hotel."
(uplifting music)
(mocking Riley)
Hey, hey, wait, wait.
You don't want to get
any coverage?
These are Corinthian columns,
Cage.
Corinthian.
You sure you don't want
to book the place first?
I'm manifesting. Come on,
this place is my dream.
You know we've covered
actual royal weddings, right?
Okay, well, I used to help out
my dad here during the summer,
so this place is a part of me,
and there is no other venue,
so...
Maybe don't lead in with that.
It's not
the strongest leverage...
No, we are not leaving until
we get the paperwork signed.
Get the coverage.
(mellow music)
Just don't cause a scene
in there without me.
Corinthian beams.
Well, the new owner
has impeccable taste.
Is that June?
- Hi, Olive.
- Hi!
- So good to see you.
- Good to see you, too.
- How are you?
- Good.
I'm just glad I checked
my messages last night
so I could give y'all a tour
of the Grand Holland
this morning.
Well, we appreciate it.
This is my daughter, Annabelle.
- Hi, it's great to meet you.
- Nice to meet you.
Is this your first visit
at the Grand Holland?
Oh, no. No, no, no.
But, um, it's been a long time
since I've been
through those doors,
so, it's good to be back.
Oh, yeah.
Please don't mind the mess.
We're just going through
a quick transfer of ownership.
Gotta sweep out the cobwebs,
count up all them tables
and chairs,
find where the bodies
are buried.
(chuckling)
And here is our new owner now.
(bluesy music)
(walkie beeps)
Hey, boss, I finished out back.
I'm just gonna take off
for the day.
Make sure you put the radios
on charge tonight.
(walkie beeps)
Copy that.
Lucas.
Oh, you're already familiar?
Belle?
(piano music)
And here is
our blushing bride-to-be,
returned at last to the venue
that sparked her love affair
with all things wedding.
Cage.
Our very own maestro
of bridal innovation...
Cage, Cage.
Annabelle Ansel.
Cage, would you
just stop filming?
You said all-access, and I said,
"Don't cause a scene
without me."
Ahem.
Is, uh, this your groom?
No. No!
No, no, no, videographer.
Uh, documentarian.
Quite the, uh, production
you brought with you
for a tour of a place
that you know so well.
Yeah, well...
So, where is your groom
- Uh, he... he's...
- Flying in real soon.
Right, yeah.
But you know my Annabelle,
always two steps ahead.
(chuckling)
Yeah, that certainly
has been true, now hasn't it?
So, what can I do you for?
What's going on?
(mouthing words)
I need to book the Grand Holland
for a wedding...
My wedding to my fianc,
Matthew Fernez.
And we will be documenting
the whole thing
for the front-page feature
of this summer's issue
of Timeless Bride.
Is that it?
This summer's issue, Lucas.
I know it's fast,
but it is as good for you
as it is for me.
Whoo, yeah, well,
summer is all booked up.
Holland's been closed
for months,
so we can't do it.
There's a huge backlog.
Well, we don't need it
in summer.
We need it for the summer issue,
so, we need the Grand Holland
in three weeks.
Three weeks, okay.
Three weeks, girl,
are you out of your mind?
The birthday room
over at the bowling alley
needs more than three weeks
to host
a pack of third graders,
but I guess you expect me...
You're not talking
to a third grader.
You're talking
to a professional.
Then you should know better.
Is the calendar open or not?
Of course it isn't.
Next summer, maybe we can
make something work,
but right now,
we are booked solid.
Who do I need to talk to?
Bookings online are anonymous,
and I'm not about to let you
harass my...
Who do I need to talk to?
You want to push
someone else's dream out
so that you can
have your day, Belle?
Is that who you are now?
We need two days, Lucas.
And the Grand Holland
will be on the front page
of the biggest bridal magazine
in the country.
(bluesy music)
(whistles)
Yeah.
Bowling alley has
a pretty exclusive list
- this time of year.
- I am not getting married
in a bowling alley!
I am trying to help you,
and you're just...
(grunting)
Timeless Bride,
it's in your foyer,
you know, the magazine there?
I don't know if you can read,
but my name,
it's on the inside cover.
(soft music)
Well, thank you for your time.
Bye-bye.
You know our first wedding
on the books
isn't for another six weeks.
Yep.
Lucas, why are you being
such a jerk?
Me? A jerk?
Not on your life.
Oh, and, Olive,
get rid of that magazine.
(bluesy music)
- You knew?!
- I wouldn't say that.
I knew that it didn't matter
who was running the place.
You are getting married
at the Grand Holland
one way or another.
- But, Mom, that was...
- A lot?
Considering how things ended,
"a lot" barely covers it.
Yeah, no, that was terrible.
Terrible? That was incredible.
Who is this Lucas?
(sighing)
We used to date.
Don't be silly.
Those two were inseparable
until Belle...
- Mom!
- We have a childhood sweetheart
in the mix?
Wonderful!
This is the backwoods,
small-town drama I need.
Well, we're sunk
because if we don't have
- the Holland, then...
- Belle, just take a breath.
There is still
plenty more to do.
We have the cake tasting
tomorrow
and the bridal appointment
the day after that.
Yeah, with no venue to put it.
Okay, so I don't, like,
like-like my job,
but I also don't really want
to find a new one.
Your mom is right.
Plus, Timeless needs content.
Let them eat cake.
Fine, okay, you're right.
He just gets me so...
You just need to talk to him.
Honey, there's history there.
And there's a lot on the line
for you, so just be honest,
and do not go in there yelling.
He started that.
Did he, hon?
(soft guitar music)
I'll talk to him tomorrow, okay?
Just give everyone time
to cool off.
You might go look for him
at the carriage barn.
His dad's place?
It's his carriage barn now.
You've missed a lot.
(mellow music)
(soft music)
(metal clanging)
(thudding, clanging)
(bristles scraping)
So...
All this and the Holland, too.
All this and the Holland, too.
And, now, you're here.
For what?
I think I was about as clear
as I could make myself
yesterday.
I'm sorry, okay?
I didn't expect to...
to see you.
It's not exactly
every little girl's dream
to have to book
their wedding venue
from their ex-boyfriend.
You know,
not exactly
every ex-boyfriend's dream
to host their
old girlfriend's wedding.
I know.
And if I had have known,
then I would have given you
a heads-up, but...
Oh, such a mess!
What is? Your weddin'?
What?
No, I was talking about us.
(horse whinnies)
Yeah? Well, you left
and I stayed.
That seems about the sum of it.
That is not fair.
You make it sound so easy
when you say it like that,
"You left and I stayed."
Wasn't it?
Sometimes, yeah,
leaving was easy.
Other times, Lucas,
it was the hardest thing
in the world.
And now you're back.
Now I'm back.
For some old building.
It is more than that,
and you know it.
(tender music)
You wouldn't have bought
the place
if you didn't love it, too.
Yep.
Inherited the carriage barn,
only made sense
to add the Holland
after I heard old man
Worthington was retiring.
Well, that's awful industrious
for the Lucas I know.
I thought you hated
the carriage barn.
Old machines, big animals.
Lots of happy, smiling people.
A lot worse you can do
than to be of service.
Make other people's dreams
come true,
if only for a day.
This beauty
brought back memories.
Yeah, she's been
out of commission for years.
Hitch is worn through, and...
it needs a new wheel, but...
Dang thing's so old,
we gotta get new parts forged.
Don't suppose you've got
a good blacksmith
you could recommend?
(Belle laughs)
Can't say that I do.
- No?
- No.
Here I thought you were
some big time,
fancy magazine editor.
And here I was thinking
you're some
South Carolina hayseed.
I mean, if anyone
should know a blacksmith...
Well, I got horseshoes
and things taken care of,
but just nothing so specialized
there, sweetheart.
So, why are you here now, huh?
You wanna catch up
on old times, or...
(shutter snaps)
You gonna hold my feet
to the fire
about getting your date?
(shutter snapping)
(soft, tense music)
Lucas, I really wish I didn't
have to ask this of you,
but I'm in love
and I'm in trouble.
The magazine isn't doing well,
okay?
This isn't just about me.
Can't we just
leave the past behind us, okay?
'Cause I need help
from my friend.
(tender music)
Girl, I'm only your friend
when you need something.
(she exclaims)
You left. Remember?
(clattering crash)
And you brought your portable
paparazzi with you, I see.
- No, No, Luc...
- Hey, hey, look.
I got too much work to do,
and you are wasting my time.
There's no room in the schedule
for this stunt
you're trying to pull.
Lucas, please!
Will you just think about it?
Really?
You couldn't wait five minutes?
- I was this close.
- Hey.
It's not my fault
that the most interesting thing
about this wedding
is playing out between you
- and your old boyfriend.
- Nope. Nope, nope, nope.
Come on. We're gonna be late
- for the cake-tasting.
- Wild!
Let's go. You're driving.
(traffic whooshing)
Here's the rest of your party.
(playful music)
There she is!
Hey! What are you doing here?
You thought I was gonna
let you have all the fun?
Look, I know
you're the professional,
but I happen to think
I've absorbed
some of your brilliance
secondhand.
(she exclaims)
You could have texted
and let me know
you were coming down.
And miss the look
on your face right now?
Yeah, no, um, I just...
I can't believe you're here,
that's all.
I have a, uh, a surprise.
- Oh?
- Yeah. Uh, Riley,
why don't you give us a turn?
(soft music)
Mother is here to help oversee
some of the finer details
of the wedding, well,
since you are...
With all due respect
and love in my heart,
if your girl isn't
a classically trained
Parisian patissier,
then I don't...
Annabelle!
How wonderful to see you.
Join us.
Oh, you look tired.
Hi, Patricia.
It's so good
you could make the trip down.
Be a peach and try the frosting
on the lemon cake for me.
Is it more of a buttermilk
or a butter cream?
I'm sure that it is delicious.
And have we found out
if they can do
a three-tiered cake
with an elegant fondant pop?
Cupcake towers are old news,
and I'll be dead
before these bumpkins
slap a sheet cake on the table
and call it haute.
I am sure they can do
whatever we want them to do.
And what about the red velvet?
Is it rich, dense, decadent?
- Color looks sickly over this...
- Okay!
Look at that, teamwork
makes the dream work, huh?
And get the girl back in here.
I need to know
if these ingredients
are locally sourced.
I don't want us pouring
a cement mixture
of processed sugars
down our guests' throats.
- Matthew. A word?
- Yep.
Yep.
Now, try the double chocolate.
And turn me around while you do.
I need to judge your reaction
to see if the cake is...
What is that?
I said I wanted to help,
and... well...
Bringing cyber Patricia
wasn't exactly
what I had in mind.
I know. But like you said,
she's your boss.
And if you want let her
sweat the small stuff
and I can't help you,
then what else
am I supposed to do?
It's our wedding,
there is no small stuff.
Yeah, well, you know this is
a professional obligation
as much as it is a celebration.
Okay, but I still want it
to feel like our wedding.
And it will feel
like our wedding.
It will always be our wedding.
adds a little bit
of class and pizzazz...
We just wanna help you carry
some of the weight.
je ne sais quoi...
You know what? Here.
Come back, take a breath,
relax with me.
I got the king suite
at the hotel
- on First and Main...
- Now, you know
it's bad luck
for the bride and groom
to cohabitate
before the wedding day.
Mom, that's the night
before the wedding.
Same difference.
Now, Matthew,
if you'll excuse us,
Belle and I have
other business to attend to.
Many hands make light work.
Of course.
It's so nice to have finally
met you in person, June.
And to you as well, Handsome.
Belle, I believe
there's another obligation
calling our name
from across town.
If you show me
one more Italian cake...
(sighs)
I'm going to go
out of my mind.
All right, where were we?
(pleasant music)
Here's the red velvet.
Sorry about the color.
I promise it tastes good.
(playful music)
And, just so you know,
I don't make sheet cakes.
Mm!
Look, Belle, I know
you have your reasons,
but I don't think it's right
how that woman was
barking orders at you
from a tiny screen.
(Belle exclaims)
Look, the wedding is
three weeks away, okay?
I'm lucky to have the help.
And these are the people
you work with?
I thought you were a big shot,
making the tough calls
and barking your own orders!
There's a lot more on the line
than just my ego, okay?
It just didn't feel right.
Seeing you on your back foot
like that,
it doesn't feel
like the Belle I know.
Well...
Please. Take a seat.
- Mom...
- Really.
Okay.
The Belle I know is tenacious
and self-assured
and wouldn't be taking
some backward jabs
from a talking rectangle
without giving it back
as good as she gets.
(tender music)
And you know why?
Why?
'Cause, Belle,
you're usually right.
And you are talented,
and you have the experience.
And you've been
thinking about this day
ever since the first time
your dad took you
to the Grand Holland.
Yeah, and I am
still that person,
it's just that things are
more complicated now.
Everything's complicated
about a wedding.
Yeah.
But love?
That's as simple as it comes.
Okay, Mom, I get it,
you don't like Patricia.
But family drama is
as much a part of weddings
as cake is.
I'm talking about Matthew.
You looked frazzled
when you saw him.
Frazzled? No. No.
I... I was surprised, that's all.
I mean, after the last few days
I've had,
anyone in their right mind
would be.
And you're happy
with all of this?
I... what? Of course!
Of course, this is what I want.
Because if you're not,
you just say the word
and I will tell them all
where to stick it.
Mom...
Because if I looked
like you did back there,
you'd be having
the same talk with me.
I know.
Thank you.
I just need a rest.
Things'll be better tomorrow.
(Belle sighs)
I love you.
I love you, too.
I'll let you know
when I'm starting dinner.
Unless your posse
decides to show up
and turn things upside down
instead.
Yeah.
(pensive music)
I hope this is all
part of your wish, Dad.
(sighs)
And three, two, one,
give us a twirl!
Can we at least try something
like the crinoline and a train?
We're trying to make
a statement here,
and I don't think that...
That the bride should feel
comfortable in her own dress?
Excuse me?
Uh, if we're trying to lean
into small-town authentic,
we could go bohemian.
- No!
- No.
Okay. Dress up
like a sexy Elvis,
for all I care.
(sighs)
I'm thinking
classic is the move.
Something elegant.
You thinking what I'm thinking?
A-line.
(upbeat countrified music)
Oh!
You look so beautiful!
Belle, oh Belle, oh Belle.
Now, that does almost rate
Timeless Bride.
Top me off.
I just think our readers
would be more inclined
to see themselves
in something like...
You worry about your readers,
and I'll worry
about my daughter.
Don't take that tone with me.
I'm trying to set the stage here
for something that no one
has ever seen before,
and I will not be kneecapped
by bad taste.
Excuse me for advocating
for what my daughter
actually wants
on one of the biggest days
of her life.
Last time I checked,
she's the one
walking down the aisle.
(tender music)
Of course, we'll need to make
some significant alterations
to get it ready for prime time.
Maybe a tighter corset...
or a more vigorous gym routine.
What is wrong with you?
We were all thinking it.
No, no, no, no.
No one else here
was thinking that.
Some of us can give
people a compliment
without sneaking a dagger
into it.
I don't know
what you think you know
about bridal fashion,
but I can only assume
that you got married
in a sundress
at the country courthouse.
Now, if you think some
off-the-rack bric-a-brac
is ready for the cover
of my magazine...
You should all be
ashamed of yourselves.
My Annabelle is a person,
not a prop,
and she's put it all on the line
for you!
(grunt, door slams shut)
And we've lost the bride.
Uh, think she'd do that exit
again for me?
(melancholic music)
(birdsong, insects chirring)
Don't jump.
I, um, heard you had it out
with your future mother-in-law.
Yeah, well, if you met her,
you'd have it out too.
That's, what,
two storm-outs in three days?
Yeah, I figured you'd be here,
or maybe over at the bell tower.
What made you pick here?
Fewer stairs.
(snickering)
Yeah, well,
I think better out here.
Used to, anyway.
Sounded like
you could use a friend.
Someone on your side.
Oh, so you're on my side now?
I think you're misremembering
the conversation we last had.
Yeah, I figured I owed you
an apology for that, too,
if you'll take it.
That's lot of words
about an apology
without an actual apology
in there.
(ducks quacking)
I am sorry.
I realize I've been
a little combative.
(he sighs)
I know it must be a lot for you
to be back here.
I haven't seen you back in town
since you left
after your dad passed,
and I wasn't thinking straight
about what all this
means to you.
(she exclaims softly)
(soft music)
You know, losing Dad
made leaving easy.
Just everything here
reminds me of him.
And I... I knew I would have
to come back and face it
for the wedding,
but I just thought
I would have more time,
you know?
And, uh, didn't expect it
to still hurt so much.
You know, Dad and I,
we used to come down here
and use the stream
as a wishing well.
Wait.
You telling me
there's money in there?
Oh, there's way more than money
in there.
Phew!
You know, it's, uh, it's love,
if you're really that hurt.
Takes as long as it takes,
but love is what really remains.
Well, the pain is
taking its sweet time.
Running away from it
doesn't exactly
- speed up the process.
- I wasn't running away;
I just, I...
just needed to be
somewhere else,
I needed to focus my energy
into something else,
something productive for me.
You know,
the people that stayed,
they had their own work to do.
I know your mother would love
to see more of you.
Mm.
- I'd like to see m...
- I know, I know,
and I owed you
a better answer than grief
for breaking things off
after all those years together.
I'm sorry.
Well.
Water under the bridge.
(she sighs)
Always thought
you'd come after me.
I almost did.
Lot of times, I wanted to.
But... someone had to stay here
and keep an eye on all this.
And I thought
that if I could build
on all those old foundations,
that...
I don't know, maybe one day,
you'd come back home, and...
we could all heal.
Yeah, well,
I couldn't handle it.
Guess I messed things up
pretty good, huh?
Nah, don't beat yourself up.
No one can handle that,
not without help.
Yeah.
Well... thanks for coming
to talk me down, Lucas.
You know, you never used to know
what to say,
but you're doing a pretty good
job of it right now.
(chuckling)
Tell you what.
I'll do you one better.
I, um... I spoke with Olive,
and we were able
to move some things around,
and, well...
The Holland's all yours.
(she exclaims)
Thank you!
That's the first bit
of good news I've had
since I got here.
It really means the world...
Hey, it wouldn't be right
to do any less.
Okay, so what's next?
Hm.
Come on by in the morning,
we'll get the paperwork
squared away,
and then you have got
a weddin' to plan
and no time to do it.
Oh! Is that it?
Great.
Come on. This way.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
(exuberant music)
Good mornin'.
You're early.
We're behind as it is.
Where do you want us?
This way.
(soft, tender music)
Think you're gonna like this.
All right.
Hope you don't mind us
setting you up out here.
Whoa.
Okay. I could get used to this.
Yeah?
Keeps you close enough
to everything
but out of the way enough
so that we're not
stepping over each other.
This will work for me.
Couldn't ask
for a better background,
and look at that natural light.
I'll go get you
our vendors list.
I'm into weddings,
but I know
what this town does best.
You only got, what,
about two weeks now?
You're gonna need
all the help you can get,
and it is gonna go by quick.
Thank you for the reminder.
Hey, do want me
to dial in Patricia?
(Belle laughs)
Will all due love and respect
in my heart,
absolutely not.
(door creaks)
Hello?
Hello?
Can I help you?
Oh. Hi. Uh, Matthew.
- Lucas.
- Pleasure to meet you.
I'm, uh, I'm looking
for my fiance.
Ah. The groom, at last.
Belle's on down the hallway.
Just swing it left,
you won't miss her.
"Belle"?
Annabelle.
Her and her paparazzi
are getting set up now.
I'm sorry, and you are...
The local proprietor.
Oh! Excellent, excellent.
Thank you so much, um...
Lucas.
Lucas. Lucas, Lucas.
Mother and I are just
so appreciative
of everything you've done
for Annabelle.
- Happy to.
- Thanks.
Wait, okay. What if
we subbed out this color?
Uh-huh.
Um, I just feel
like we need something
a little bit softer.
- Like that, maybe?
- Am I interrupting something?
Hey!
Welcome to the Holland.
Ooh!
(Belle chuckles)
Thought you should know,
my fitting was fantastic.
I'll be looking
as dapper as Gatsby for you.
Oh! Well, thank you
for taking care of that.
Every little bit helps.
And I heard your fitting was...
Fine. You know, it was...
It was great.
You know how Mother can be.
Yeah. I do. Mm-hm.
But this place!
I mean, it's so beautiful.
I can't believe
you can find something like this
- so far south.
- Yeah.
Oh, and, uh, I met the owner
on the way in.
- Oh! Uh, you did?
- Yeah. Uh...
Logan.
He seems like a swell guy.
Yeah, well, without him,
we would be getting married
at the birthday room
in the bowling alley, so.
Be a lot easier, though,
wouldn't it?
I don't know,
I've heard they have
a pretty exclusive list
this time of year.
(chuckling)
Okay. But really.
What can I take off your plate?
Honestly, right now,
I think I just need space
to spread out and get started.
Space. Okay.
I will leave you to it.
I should probably
get home anyway,
make sure the place
hasn't burned down.
But I'll be back,
- okay?
- Good.
- Bye.
- Bye.
- Yeah.
- find the person.
No, nothing.
So, we doing this?
(Belle sighs)
Let's do this.
All right, I'm thinking...
So, the bottom,
but I'm thinking
maybe the bottom.
Right here.
Me too. On, like
the first step.
Right, right, right,
exactly, exactly.
And then...
Yeah!
(upbeat music)
Riley, what's the update
from HQ?
We have features in the works
on the town and the venue.
Can we, um, send them
all of our photo
and video assets
so they can get going
on the teasers?
Yeah, sure.
Huh.
Can you just feel us
really pulling it all together?
Was that a compliment?
Aww. I didn't think
she had it in her.
Next, I'm gonna need you
to distract cyber Patricia
at the bakery.
On it.
Let her win that one,
and apologize
to that poor patissier for me.
Then, I need you
on a seating chart.
Just don't spend
too much time on it,
because Patricia is gonna
rewrite the whole thing anyway.
Who's hungry?
Me!
Perfect timing, Mom.
I need you on flowers.
Oh, no problem.
I know the woman who runs
Wild Thistle Florals.
- I'll be right on it.
- Thank you.
Hey. Before I forget...
Definitely this one.
- Good choice.
- Yeah.
I'll be working with Lucas
on the ceremony and logistics,
from the procession
to bouquet toss.
We will be going through him
for all of the vendors,
catering, rentals, et cetera.
- Wi-Fi for the live stream?
- Mm-hm.
If anyone can help, it's Lucas.
He'll let us know
the best places
for running power
to our live stream setups.
I hope we can
go through that again.
All right.
But you two
will carry on through
for photos with Cage
before we do
your formal grand entrance
into the reception.
And what do you think about
moving the tables around
at the front
to make some room
for the dance floor?
Yeah.
You're good at this.
Meh. It's my job.
No, helping run a magazine
is your job.
This wedding planning is
a whole different animal.
You're really
in the trenches now.
Well, a bride knows
what a bride wants.
Uh, and, uh, what about
catering and photography?
How are we going
to move them through the space
once everyone is settled?
This way.
That hallway there
to the kitchen
actually acts as
a secret highway for personnel.
Perfect.
We're not going to have a job
if handsome Mr. Carriage Man
walks off with the bride.
Don't be mean.
When was the last time
you even saw Matthew?
Hm?
Where is he?
I think the blue could be nice.
We're aiming
for the height of fashion.
Not some
pimple-covered pubescent
at his junior prom.
(playful music)
Okay. So, not the blue.
- Mm.
- (he sighs)
Oh, come on.
I'm not an influencer,
I'm an editor.
And while that might be true,
you did sign up for this,
and we need a profile
on our editor-in-chief bride.
Okay, but I do better
behind the scenes,
making, you know...
And we are rolling.
Riley!
Go.
What do you want me to say?
Seriously? Most of the time,
I can't get you to shut up.
So, just do the Annabelle thing.
The Annabelle thing.
(soft music)
Every little girl
dreams of her wedding.
Growing up,
I got to live those dreams,
summer after summer,
helping out at the Grand Holland
with my dad.
It's just...
one little piece of the riddle
that is love and matrimony.
I think so, too.
My dad always used to say
that happily ever after
is built one moment at a time,
and that dreams are
always stronger
when we dream them together.
Do you think that I'm... I'm...
Yeah. See? I knew it.
Now, this day,
it's just one day.
But in it are
all the seeds of a lifetime
and the promise of a future
yet to come.
(indistinct remarks)
It's a commitment to each other
and a dream of what
your life could be... will be,
if you build it together.
Okay. That, that, that.
How was that?
That's the one.
(exuberant music)
Annabelle, come look at this.
Wow. Okay.
It's doing good.
It's not just doing good,
it's doing great.
Wow. Look at that number.
And that spike?
That's all you.
Ahh, you helped.
(insects chirring)
This vase wins for me.
Yes.
Cage, we need a picture
to commemorate the moment.
We finally have world peace.
(slow clap)
Okay, no need to be smug.
Just because I can't see you
doesn't mean
that I can't hear you.
Now, Annabelle,
how's the dress coming?
I need to see an update
on what our blushing bride
is going to be...
Patricia, I will have
the first and last word
about the dress I will be
wearing at my wedding.
(soft music)
We ready?
Oh yeah. We're ready.
(wondrous music)
Woo!
- Honey, you look...
- Hot!
You look hot!
Could I have a moment
with my daughter, please?
Say no more.
(June exclaims)
Would you say something?
You're a dream come true.
- Your father would be so...
- I know, I know.
I know.
I'm gonna need
a dozen handkerchiefs.
Well, we will strap
a fanny pack full of them
to Riley.
(tender music)
Mom, um...
Yes, honey?
With, um...
with Dad gone,
would you walk me
down the aisle?
Of course.
I'd be honored.
I couldn't get a date in time,
anyway.
- (chuckling)
- (door creaks open)
Hey, Belle, I gotta...
What do you think?
(stammering)
It's perfect.
Uh, well, when you're done,
there's something
I need to show you, so, uh,
go and get dressed
and I'll pull my truck around.
Okay.
We're gonna get close.
Okay.
You ready for this?
- I'm so ready.
- I don't think you are.
Can I take it off now?
Not yet, Belle, it's a surprise!
- How do I get out?
- Hold on, hold on.
- You remember this one.
- It's stuck.
You remember it,
it's kinda tough.
One second, one second,
give it a little kick.
Here we go.
One hand, two hands.
One foot, two foot.
- Okay, what is it?
- It's a surprise!
I can't tell you.
That would negate the surprise.
Yeah.
Ready?
Almost there.
Don't walk me into anything.
Oh, I'mma walk you
into something here.
You're not even prepared.
Okay, we're almost there.
One, two, and stop.
Right, turn and stay.
Right there.
And three, two, one.
No way!
- You fixed it!
- Yeah!
(he laughs)
How did you do this?
Well, you know, I knew a guy
who knew another guy
who knew a woman, who...
who did it for you?
Yeah, well, they did
the blacksmithing part.
Everything else was me.
Really?
These very hands!
So, you like it?
I love it.
I know it sounds silly,
but I've had
this exact carriage in my mind
for as long as I can remember.
I know.
So this is where
my beautiful bride-to-be
has been hiding out
all this time.
Hey! Matthew,
don't you love this?
Yeah.
Two full horsepower,
what's not to love?
But I assume this will ferry us
to some hidden limousine
around the corner?
Sneak Rosie over there
a couple of carrots,
and she'll get you
anywhere you need to go.
Okay.
Jump on in, check it out.
It's so beautiful.
Uh... no, that's all right,
I, uh...
I wouldn't want
to ruin my experience
so close to the day.
(soft music)
Honey, everything looks great.
I am just so happy to be back
and see everything you've done,
just because
flying back and forth is...
eww, you know?
Yeah.
I'm just happy you're here.
I'm so ready to say "I do,"
my love.
Say, have you, um...
have you decided
on what you're gonna do
for your bachelor party?
There is a local spot
I can take you to,
if you're up
for a little flavor.
Oh, I don't think
that, um, he'd wanna...
No, really,
I don't want to impose.
I just came down to see
if my fiance needed anything.
No, it's nothing, really.
Consider it a, uh,
an impromptu stag.
(Belle stammers)
You really don't have
to do that, that's, um...
What do you think?
I, um, yeah, yeah, of course,
fine by me, mm-hm.
- All right.
- Great.
- I'll pick you up.
- Sounds awesome. Sir.
- So?
- Yeah. Yeah.
- Good?
- Great. Yeah.
- Let's do it.
- It'll be fun. Okay.
All right, cheers.
Slinte.
Mm.
(mellow country music)
Here, you might want to ease
into that one.
(chuckles)
Problem is I'm starting
to like the taste.
Oh, I see.
So, wedding's in a few days.
You must be gettin' nervous.
Oh, no, not at all.
Whole thing's a publicity stunt
for the magazine.
It's gonna be great
for Annabelle's career,
of course, but...
Yeah, I hear there's a lot
ridin' on it.
Yeah.
(laughs)
Yeah.
If you ask Mother, uh,
it's the end of the world
if this thing
doesn't go off perfectly,
so, I'm just playing my part.
Really more of an accessory
at this point.
You know, I've worked a lot
of weddings in my day,
and, uh, that's the first time
someone's ever put it
so bluntly.
How'd you get into weddings?
Well, my father started
a business with his father
long before I was born.
Oh, so you get it.
What?
All these critical life choices
that are just inherited.
We like to pretend
we have a choice,
but, no.
Our parents control our lives
as much as their parents
controlled theirs.
Yeah, well, I happen to love it.
I know not everyone is, uh,
lucky enough
to find their soulmate.
Soulmate?
Yeah.
Come on, man,
what are we, children?
What?
You wanna know about luck?
Go ahead.
I'm the luckiest guy
in the world.
Flying back and forth for weeks,
barely getting to see
my fiance,
it's enough to go mad,
you know, all this luck.
So, why are you doin' it?
'Cause it's what's expected
of me.
That it?
That is it.
I'll pick Mother up
at the airport tomorrow,
and then, this is happening.
But Annabelle is great.
I mean, truly, she is.
And if this goes off,
she is gonna be
wildly successful
and we will inherit
a publishing empire
or a dumpster fire.
(chuckles)
There's that luck again
just firing on all cylinders.
But do you love her?
It just makes sense, you know?
Yeah, you sound real convinced.
To be honest, Lucas,
I'm not sure I know
what love is, really.
Obligation, expectation?
Yeah, sure.
But love?
I don't know,
love is a kind word we use
when something's
too practical to pass up.
(soft music)
(window clatters)
(insects chirring)
(moans softly)
(window clatters)
(sighs)
(window clatters)
(window clatters)
Dangit.
Come on, Belle, where are you?
(window clatters)
(insects chirring)
Throw my arm out pretty soon.
Oh!
What are you doing?
Where is Matthew?
You shouldn't marry him,
he doesn't love you.
He doesn't love you, Belle.
Wait, you're wrong.
Oh, not even a little bit.
I got him so worked up,
he started talking about
his mother after one beer.
This whole thing
is a show to him,
an obligation to his mother.
You need to leave.
No, no, no, don't do that.
Don't do what?
You show up here
in the middle of the night
after goading my fianc
out to drink.
- To what? Sabotage...
- You can't marry him.
I am going to marry him
in two days,
and there is nothing
you can do...
You can't marry him
because I love you.
And I know after these
past couple weeks together,
I know you love me too.
(insects chirring)
You need to leave.
And I need to forget
you ever said that.
Belle.
(somber music)
(soft music)
Mom, how did you know
Dad was your soulmate?
I didn't.
I don't know if I even believed
in a soulmate back then.
What?
Your father
was extremely proper.
We'd been dating off and on
for a while,
but he was so busy with school.
We were in an off swing,
and so I was looking
for a new adventure.
I mistook change for progress.
I was young.
This isn't the story I know.
Yeah, it's the story you get
when you're old enough for it.
So, what did Dad do?
He waited until the last minute,
that's what he did.
If that man had had ten minutes
of car trouble,
I would have been on my way
to Charleston.
But, instead...
he showed up
with the deed to this house.
And this ring.
And he got down on his knee
and told me the dream
of what our life could be.
And you believed him?
Well, every word of it
came true, didn't it?
Even after we lost him.
You're proof of that.
I didn't know.
Parents are people too.
You live long enough,
you'll find that out.
Promise me this.
Whatever you decide,
decide it for yourself.
(insects chirring,
birds chirping)
So, this is where we dumped
our annual marketing budget.
It looked bigger
in the pictures.
Size is no indicator
of quality, Mother.
It is when you're selling
a lifestyle.
Maybe you should wait
to see the inside.
Did remarkable work.
Mm, I'm sure Annabelle knows
this place inside and out.
(soft music)
Ah.
I guess
she does have a decent eye.
Mother...
So, where is everyone?
(soft, quirky music)
I don't know,
I'll... I'll try her cell.
(cell phone ringing)
Your call has been forwarded...
Well?
Straight to voicemail.
Oh!
Riley!
Patricia, how are you?
Where is Annabelle?
Um...
We thought she was with you.
(laughs)
Well, clearly she's not here.
What is it?
Oh, nothing at all,
except it seems
the bride has gone missing
the day before the wedding,
a notoriously good sign.
Missing?
What kind of operation
have you people been running
on my dime for the past month?
There are only so many places
she could be.
We'll find her.
(soft music)
(sighs)
(snaps fingers)
(soft, tense music)
(humming)
(shrieks)
(gasps)
Uh...
(mellow music)
(birds chirping)
You know everyone's out there
lookin' for you right now?
It's not like I went far.
You weren't answering
your phone.
Left it at The Holland.
Look, I'm, um...
I'm sorry about last night.
Are you?
Not for what I said,
but maybe how I said it.
It wasn't my finest moment.
Maybe.
Well, what do you want me to do,
Belle, huh?
Working together
these past three weeks
have been the happiest
I've been in a long time,
and now I just gotta watch you
go on and get married?
How did you expect this to end?
These three weeks
we were planning my wedding.
And I could take that
when I thought he loved you.
I'm your friend, Belle,
I can't just let you
go off and...
You do not get to "let me"
do anything.
It's not like
I just married the first man
I met after you, Lucas.
It's been years.
Where was my friend then?
No, hey, come here, come here,
come here, come here, stop.
He thought he lost you forever,
okay?
He didn't know if he could go
through that again.
Don't, I'm getting married
tomorrow,
and I'm getting back to my life.
So, what?
You're just gonna go off
and get hitched,
run on back to the city,
and act like none of this
even mattered?
I love you more
than you could know,
but it doesn't change
anything, Lucas,
and it is horrible,
and it's beautiful,
and it's messy,
but it... it just is, Lucas.
We can imagine all these
different versions of our life,
but we only get the one
that we get, okay?
So, I am getting married
tomorrow,
and I cannot just throw it all
away for you.
(sentimental music)
(camera shutter clicks)
And that's the picture.
That was a mistake.
That didn't feel like a mistake.
You cannot say that to me
the day before my wedding.
Hey, look,
I have other people
relying on me,
Riley and Cage
and the whole office.
I'm doing this for everybody.
Love you do for yourself.
You have to choose for yourself.
What do you really want?
(panting)
I can't see you again.
Lucas, if you love me
half as much as you say you do,
then you won't come tomorrow.
(insects chirring,
birds chirping)
- I don't know...
- What is there?
Just 'cause you date
someone who's "y and r"
doesn't mean
you're also "y and r".
(indistinct chatter)
Okay, you can call off the hunt.
Hey, what happened?
We were worried about you.
I just stepped outside
for some air
and I left my phone behind.
It's not a big deal.
Okay, but we would all
be more comfortable
- knowing where you are.
- Okay.
People tend to wonder
when a bride goes missing
the day before a wedding.
Hi, Patricia.
So glad you could make it
after all the work
had been done.
What excellent work it is.
Would you mind
giving us a moment?
(grim musical flourish)
Belle, everything okay?
It's nothing.
- Really?
- Really.
(mysterious music)
(insects chirring)
Okay, I know
tensions are running high,
but you can't just disappear
as soon as Mother shows up.
You make it sound like
it's her wedding.
Hey, this is bigger than us now.
(soft, pensive music)
Tonight,
at the rehearsal dinner,
it is very important
that we make
a good first impression.
Everyone is gonna be there,
Mother, Riley, Cage.
My, my.
You'll look lovely
when she's finished with you.
Would you excuse us
for a moment?
Thank you.
(dark music)
You know, you really have
outdone yourself.
Not without a little bit
of help, of course,
but the venue looks incredible.
Thank you, Patricia.
But that's not all
you've been up to, is it?
What do you mean?
All these cameras around,
and you don't think I have eyes
and ears everywhere
with the amount of money
that we've poured into this?
I don't understand.
I know about the ex-boyfriend.
Is that why
you ran off yesterday?
Patricia,
what are you trying to say?
I'm here to underline
the seriousness
of the situation.
Timeless Bride,
the people who work there,
they're all counting on you.
Keep them in mind
the next time you think
about getting cold feet
for some country boy.
(somber music)
(camera shutter clicks)
(camera beeps)
(bright music)
Olive!
Have you seen Lucas?
Uh, no, he's not, um...
He's out.
Well, where is he?
Thank you.
Oh, thank God.
What are you doin' here?
Don't you have a job
to do somewhere else?
Look, I get it,
you don't like me.
I was spying on you
that one time,
and I've been too committed
to getting the shot.
Just leave me alone.
(mellow music)
You've been working in weddings
almost your whole life, right?
One way or another.
Ever seen a bride
on her wedding day?
More times than I can count.
Do they normally look like this?
She made her choice.
Listen to yourself.
You own a wedding venue
and a carriage barn.
Don't you have a romantic bone
in your body?
This woman does not want
to marry that man.
But she's been cornered into it.
A picture is worth
a thousand words,
and every single word here
says, "No."
She told me not to come today.
The ceremony is in 45 minutes.
If you don't do something today,
you are going to regret this
for the rest of your life.
(door bell jingles)
God.
Well, ain't exactly
a wishing well.
(coin plops)
(door bell jingles)
("Bridal Chorus" plays)
Please be seated.
Are you sure
you want to do this?
I'm not sure
about anything anymore.
Welcome, loved ones.
We are here
on this spectacular day
to celebrate the love
of Matthew Fernez
and Annabelle Ansel,
and join them in holy matrimony.
And I can't think
of a better venue
to celebrate that partnership
than right here
in The Grand Holland...
(guests gasping)
where a lifetime commitment
to the sacred art of love
was begun
by our very own Annabelle Ansel.
What are you doing?
I, Matthew Fernez...
(soft music)
I, Matthew Fernez...
Promise to cherish you always.
No.
I didn't drag you off a barstool
so you could do nothing.
To honor and sustain you
in sickness and in health,
in poverty and in wealth.
It ain't my choice.
To cherish...
She's the one
who's gotta make it.
and sustain you
in sickness and in health,
and in poverty and in wealth.
And to be true to you always
until death do us part.
And to be true to you
in all things
until death do us part.
And I, Annabelle Ansel...
I...
I can't do this.
(guests gasping)
What do you mean
you can't do this?
I'm so sorry, Matthew.
I can't marry you.
You are going to disgrace
yourself,
and me,
and the entire magazine.
For what?
You can't force people
to get married.
That is not how this works.
This isn't right
for either of us.
If you walk out that door,
you're finished
in this industry.
(guests gasping)
(camera shutter clicking)
With all due love and respect
in my heart, Patricia,
I am finished with you.
(bright music)
(guests gasping)
Are you just gonna stand there
and take this?
She's humiliating you.
No, Mom, she's humiliating you.
(camera shutter clicking)
You would have washed
out of everything
you have ever done
if it weren't for me.
Oh, hm.
(uplifting music)
(panting)
Lucas?
Lucas?
Belle?
Belle?
(panting)
Lucas.
What are you doing here?
I thought you'd be married
by now.
I didn't get married.
Why not?
Because I needed my soulmate
for it to be perfect.
- Belle, I...
- It's you, Lucas.
It has always been you.
(camera shutter clicks)
Now that's the picture.
(panting)
(bell chiming)
(spirited music)
(soft music)