My good friend Anya, who was also a bridesmaid, flew in from Chicago. It was so good to see her! I've been telling her for the last 6 years that I'm going to make it out to Chicago for a visit, but so far that's yet to happen. So I'm glad she had a reason to come out this way.
I'm so happy I was in the country for this wedding and able to be a part of the wedding party. Serena was an incredibly mellow and graceful bride, who made me feel relaxed all weekend with her composure. She also looked amazing. Her gown was custom-made, and included lace from her mother's wedding dress, such a unique and meaningful feature. One of my favorite parts about the experience was getting to know the other bridesmaids, all women who are important in the bride's life. This is such an powerful part of weddings- to bond with new people when you know you share a love for the couple and hope for their upcoming life together. And the bridesmaids were just fun, awesome ladies who I had a blast hanging out with. We did crafts together, made breakfast, and helped each other get ready. This might be one of the most girly things I've said for a long time, but I was really excited that my hair is finally long enough to put in an updo. I haven't been able to an updo for over 6 years! It was really short (and I loved it!) for about 4 years, but the last couple years have been that unflattering, flippy, grow-out phase. Anya did a really great job of pinning up these curls.
I really enjoyed the whole wedding, but what stood out to me was the honest and personal ceremony, the grounded, spirited energy of the female officiant, the gorgeous but not overly-manicured natural setting, the seasonal salmon and veggie dinner, the family-made DVD of photos of the couple, the hilarious toast by the best man, the old black-and-white wedding portraits of their parents and grandparents (who are still married!), the self-operated photo booth, the dancing, the funny cake topper, and the chance to continue the party after the reception.
I really enjoyed the whole wedding, but what stood out to me was the honest and personal ceremony, the grounded, spirited energy of the female officiant, the gorgeous but not overly-manicured natural setting, the seasonal salmon and veggie dinner, the family-made DVD of photos of the couple, the hilarious toast by the best man, the old black-and-white wedding portraits of their parents and grandparents (who are still married!), the self-operated photo booth, the dancing, the funny cake topper, and the chance to continue the party after the reception. I'm so happy for you Mark and Serena, and I wish you a long, happy, joyful life together!
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