Bride was asked to wait for 25 years to open a specific wedding gift—she couldn't believe her eyes when she finally did
Life has a way of surprising us with moments of joy and reflection, especially when we least expect it. In a heartwarming TikTok video shared by Carrianne Manning @carriannemanning, she opens a box with a note that reads, "Do not open until July 29, 2025." The video, which quickly went viral, captures a deeply personal moment as Manning unboxes memories and messages from the past. The box, given to her by her maid of honor on her wedding day, has a unique significance and turned out to be more than just a time capsule.
Manning explains in one video, she has moved a total of eight times since receiving the box. Now, with children of her own, she reflects on how much has changed since that special day when the box was sealed. "My kids are so excited about what's in the box," she says, setting the stage for the big reveal. The anticipation builds as she shares how this small, unassuming box has traveled with her, sitting quietly in her closet for years, waiting to be opened.
The follow-up video shows Manning opening the box, and immediately, a flurry of notes spills out. “Ryan is home from work, he is very familiar with this box sitting in our closet,” Manning says, as her daughter records the moment. The entire family seems involved in this process, with Manning’s daughter filming the emotional opening. Her reaction is a mix of amusement and surprise as she begins to read the cards one by one. The cards contain various messages that cover everything from the price of gas to sports updates, politics, and pop culture references, all specifically from the year 2000.
One note particularly stands out as Manning reads aloud, “Hi Carrie, I am Emily and I am 8.” She explains that Emily is her sister. As she continues reading, another note is from her cousin, Lana Piper, who also left a message. Manning notes that Lana, who wrote about movies in 2000, unfortunately passed away from colon cancer recently. These heartfelt tributes from loved ones who are no longer around bring a sense of nostalgia and loss to her.
The messages continue, some playful and others more reflective. Reading a card by her mom, Manning says, "‘Who wants to be a millionaire? Are you one yet? I hope so.’” Another message from her mother says, “'Genetic code was cracked'... '25 years later, what do you think?'” Manning’s voice wavers as she reads these notes, each one reminding her of different moments in time and the people she loved.
The video ends with Manning overwhelmed with emotion, shouting a joyful “That’s it!” She is clearly moved by the memories and connections brought back by the box. Numerous TikTok users also shared their opinions in the comment section. @tiffanyford21 exclaimed, "Everyone saying they are disappointed, but this lady literally has little notes from 25 years ago from people that she no longer has with her! I wish I had that from my dad, he passed 17 years ago." While @sunshine8298 wrote, "If I found notecards from my friends and family in a box after 25 years…my heart would be filled with so much joy."
For more endearing content, follow @carriannemanning on her TikTok account.
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