I can’t believe it’s been almost two weeks since I promised to reveal the bride soon, but then I can’t quite believe I’m finding time to post considering the full-treadmill-mode I’m in at work. So without further ado, Here Comes the . . . you’ve got, right?
My son, the groom, actually shifted about twenty sizable logs the night before to clear an aisle for the bridesmaids to lead the bride down, and here she is walking it with her father. I know the photographer will have got some much better shots, but you get a sense of the dress’s simple lines, its draping and pleating . . .
and the va-va-voom lacing at the back. I recently saw a gorgeous shot, taken by the girlfriend of the bride’s brother, that shows the bride’s mother lacing up those back ribbons for Joey before the ceremony — a lovely moment, but too private to share here.
Here they are, signing it official.
I have a few more wedding thoughts I hope to record here later — for example, I want to write a few pointers about what I’ve learned about hosting home weddings, having had two here now.
I also want to share a few favourite moments from the day. Perhaps the three or four-week delay (and face it, it might be six weeks by the time I actually write the post) will be a good thing, a test of what really remains, what memories get burnished, what stays clear out of all the day’s sensory noise and stimulation.
But for now I’m burning up the adrenaline trying to introduce ~110 students (4 classes of 28) to university writing and to thinking about literature, and I’m trying to keep it exciting and to maintain a sense of the joyful privilege (and thus concomitant responsibility) that this should be. Plus some demanding committee stuff on the side and trying to pick up my Pilates and Yoga classes to complement my running. Busy times, as September so often brings us.
By the way, I’m really enjoying your comments, as Imentioned earlier. It’s been taking me an extra day or so, sometimes, to respond, but I do my best to answer all of you. So don’t be shy . . . (if you are, though, thanks just for being here and reading)
She looks beautiful. And I think the choice of no headpiece was right for the location and the occasion. Simple but full of intention.
I wish I'd captured her hair, which would make the choice even more clear. . .
I wish you would share your tips for a backyard wedding sooner rather than later. ( But, I understand how busy September can be) I am planning my own backyard wedding for Sept. 29. At my age it is a little weird to care so much about making this day special. There are so many little details to worry about.
I don't think it's weird at all, Elizabeth, and I wish you a lovely and very special day. My overall tips would be to identify those one or two elements or features that really represent your vision and take special care with them; to over- rather than under-estimate the numbers for food, etc.; and to realize that your guests are there to honour and celebrate you and the abundant goodwill means you can and, indeed, must enjoy, be resplendent in your happiness, for them — you set the tone.
Sorry these aren't more practical. . .
Nothing can eclipse the gorgeousness of a happy bride – not even that day from God and scenery of utter perfection. Wow, what a scene.
There is something about that iconic role, isn't there!
Her dress and hair are just perfect for the setting. Elegant and understated. And that setting just cannot be beat.
I thought so too, Lorrie, thanks.
She looks beautiful! I love her side swept hairstyle which helps showcase the back of her gorgeous gown. How wonderful and special to have had the wedding at your home. Congratulations on your new daughter in law!
Ah, even through my poor photography you spotted the hairstyle. She worked on it, practiced with a new iron, burnt herself a few times, over the past few months. It's really gorgeous with some lovely twists into beautiful curls — and she has fabulously shiny, thick hair.
Thanks!
I love her dress, but I am partially to wedding gowns that lace up the back, as I wore one myself. 🙂 She looks so radiant and lovely.
The lacing was a beautiful feature — I can see why you both chose it!
Stunning location and beautiful bride. I am new to your blog and didn't think I would ever find another person who liked, kayaking, writing, knitting, running, buffy and angel! I shall return. Looking forward to reading your wedding memories.
Wow! We're soul sisters! Buffy, Angel, kayaking, knitting — glad to have you here.
joey is stunningly beautifull in this setting .. certainly taking centre stage .. and then .. see zack .. so handsome, so ready to have this young woman come and share the rest of their lives .. wonderfull, mater .. thanks for sharing .. oh, and good luck with all the september reinstatements ..
They were so happy with their day, Jane — and thank you for helping to make the garden ready for the big day!
So lovely: handsome couple, joyful hearts, beauiful natural setting. I imagine your son's pre-nuptial heave-ho-ing of logs was a good outlet for his emotions. Seeing his expression reminded me of my younger brother at the head of the aisle. When my brother caught sight of his soon-to-be bride confidently moving toward him, his face seemed to melt with emotion–an unbounded combination of love, joy at her beauty and amazement at his good fortune. Overflowing hearts–a fine way to begin a life together. Elle
We wondered at his taking on such a huge task, not part of any plan beforehand. But in retrospect I think you're right — he needed to do something to deal with a surfeit of intense feeling.
What a lovely memory you share of your brother's wedding — sometimes it's stunning what a few moments can capture, represent.
What a lovely setting for the lovely couple to get married.
I would not add anything, nor take away anything, perfect.
Btw., I just signed again as a follower of your blog. I wish to follow active blogs, not the " dead " ones ; ).
Thanks, Mette, it was a wonderful, very special day. And thanks so much for following my blog — I appreciate each and every reader, as I know you do.
What a lovely wedding and everyone looked beautiful. The sun truly did shine on this bride and groom.
I was married in my Grandparents living room in front of their fireplace. It was a very special place and a lovely memory. I am sure your family will have equally happy memories of this wedding.
There really is something special about home weddings, isn't there? Paul and I were married in a church, but the reception was at my parents' home. . . I'm picturing you in front of that fireplace, very special.
Beautiful wedding. Beautiful elegantly simple dress and hair. I love home weddings but then I am biased about that having done it myself.