Love, Twenty Years Later

The chorus refrain in the Grateful Dead’s iconic love song, “They Love Each Other,” repeats, “They love each other, Lord you can see it’s true.”

On a warm spring day surrounded by 50 of their nearest and dearest, Kim and Bruce Kauffman proved just how true that sentiment is.

The vibrant and beloved West Midtown couple renewed their wedding vows in a Grateful Dead-style celebration that was as heartfelt as it was joyful. Under their original chuppah — complete with the same wooden poles and tallit from their wedding day two decades earlier — Kim and Bruce recommitted themselves to each other, with their original officiant, Rabbi Mitch Cohen, once again leading the ceremony.

But this vow renewal was more than a ceremony — it was a quintessential Kauffman celebration. A Grateful Dead tribute band, String ‘n Bones, filled the air with fan favorites like “Sugar Magnolia” and “Uncle John’s Band,” setting a tone of love, nostalgia, and jubilation. Guests — mostly fellow baby boomers — danced, swayed, and sang along, enveloped in a celebration of music and community that mirrored the couple’s values.

“We wanted to bring meaning to our ceremony, so we incorporated many elements of our wedding and family into the day,” said Kim. And it showed. From the outfits to the food, every detail honored the past while celebrating the present. Kim wore her original wedding cape; Bruce, his original wedding sport coat — delighted it still fit. Bruce’s sister, a jewelry designer in New York, created a custom necklace for Kim using a diamond from his mother’s engagement ring, adding a deeply sentimental touch.

“It was so sweet and meaningful. I love seeing how in love my parents are,” said their daughter, Sam Kauffman. “I’m so proud of them.”

Kim, a nurse and clinical director at a pediatric homecare agency, and Bruce, CEO of Organic Solutions of Georgia, had thought about renewing their vows in 2015, but the plans had to be put on hold due to the passing of Bruce’s mother. Ten years later, when Bruce proposed a new idea to mark their 20th anniversary, Kim said yes all over again.

Ever the event maestro, Bruce spearheaded the planning. They even ordered cakes from Alon’s Bakery — the same ones served at their original wedding reception. With the closing of their wedding venue, 5 Seasons Brewing, they chose the front patio at Fire Maker Beverage Company in West Midtown as the perfect site for making new memories.

“When I started dating Kim, I got this feeling that finally my real life was about to start … a funny epiphany to have at 45 years old. After 20 years of marriage, it seemed exactly the right time to celebrate with our friends and family. And I credit Kim for keeping it real all these years,” said Bruce.

Anyone who knows the Kauffmans will tell you they are the heart of many a gathering. Their home has long been a hub for a colorful group of friends — from members of the media and musicians to comedians and political pundits that Bruce met through his nationally syndicated radio show, “So You Say with Bruce Kay,” along with Kim’s large circle of family and friends. Add in Bruce’s ALTA tennis teammates and the groundwork is laid for a memorable party.

As the Kauffmans mingled with the group of well-wishers with laughter in the air and music all around, they reminded everyone present what enduring love looks like: rooted in shared memories, kept alive through commitment, and celebrated in the company of those who matter most.