In a surprising twist during a typical school day, kindergarten teacher Catie Zwier, transformed what her students thought was 'Fancy Surprise Day' into a heartfelt matrimony ceremony at Good Shepherd School in Golden Valley, Minnesota. The unsuspecting pupils decked out in their fineries for what they believed was just another themed day in Catholic Schools Week, took part in the nuptials of their beloved teacher and her fiancé, Kevin Zwier.
Catie, who forged a significant bond with her students over her nine years of teaching, decided there was no better way to honor that relationship than to share her special day with them. "I’ve taught so many of the students here and they are such a big part of my life," she told PEOPLE. The ceremony held on Feb. 1, was quickly followed by a second, more private affair the next day, showing that the couple's intention was as much about inclusivity as it was about the sanctity of their union.
Executing a surprise of this magnitude required the couple to conspire with Father Ben and other faculty members, ensuring that every detail was wrapped in secrecy. The plan unfolded flawlessly, as the awestruck students erupted into cheers once Father Ben announced the surprise wedding at the back of the church. "There was like a hush that fell over as the kids processed what was happening," Kevin recalled to FOX 9, "And then it just erupted, it was just pandemonium everywhere."
It wasn't all about the spectacle though, the children's involvement ran deep. They held traditional wedding roles, such as flower girls, and even did readings during the service. "I was the flower girl, and I did a reading," first-grader Layla proudly shared with FOX 9. The couple further immortalized the school's impact on their lives, by having the kids from 'Corken’s Crew,' a term of endearment for Catie’s classroom, sign a keepsake blanket — creating a fabric of memories for their teacher.
Following the day's excitement, Catie and Kevin now look forward to sharing quieter moments as they plan a spring honeymoon to California. It's clear, for both the newlyweds and students from Good Shepherd School, that this wedding will be chronicled as an exceptional day where the bonds of community are celebrated hand in hand with the vows of marriage.
