Wedding Day

What a wonderful day celebrating the wedding of Brett and Karen.  There were a few hiccups including forgotten rings at the hotel, button malfunctions on a dress and a cake that barely made it to the reception on time, but overall, those were just minor incidents on an amazing day.  Everyone was at the church on time, dressed and ready for the day.  The photographer did a great job getting all of the pictures finished before the ceremony began.  Our family and the groomsmen had a fun time hanging out before the event.  Brett's friend, Andrew, entertained everyone with hilarious stories and two flasks of scotch.  Norman was also a big hit with our family and was a joy to hang out with before we headed to the church.

The ceremony itself was absolutely beautiful.  Our family appreciated having Father Reginald performing the wedding nuptials.  Jovie was able to livestream the wedding on Facebook which meant a lot to me as my parents could watch and follow along throughout.  I didn't cry at Brett's wedding like I did at Meg's, but I did tear up when Cal hugged Brett as he walked up to the altar and once again at the end when the cantor song "May the Circle Be Unbroken" during the recessional.  

Since all of the pictures were taken ahead of time, we were able to leave for the Knights Hall for the reception after Brett and Karen went through the receiving line.  I was glad to be there early as there were still some things to do before the guests arrived.  The cake was late due to a storm, but the Knights were ready at the bar and the caterer was set up with appetizers for everyone.  The majority of the guests were there by the time that the wedding party was announced a little bit before 5 p.m.  Jovie was able to livestream the reception for Grandma and Grandpa, and I appreciated the butterflies that Meg put at their table to remind of us of their importance in our family.

Dinner was absolutely delicious.  I was very impressed with the caterer.  The speeches were nice.  I especially liked Sean's as it focused on his friendship with Brett and Father Reginald's blessing of the couple.  The first dance songs were perfect, and I was blown away by Jovie's singing.  The rest of the evening was filled with dancing, cake cutting and a lot of great conversations.  I was incredibly thankful that the Budde family, Aunt Jan's family, Parce, Vicky, Phil. Billy and Dan's family were able to join us for Brett's wedding.  It was awesome to be able to visit with them and share this big day.  I also enjoyed dancing, especially during the anniversary dance as Brett chose "Beyond the Sea" by Bobby Darin, one of Grandma's favorites.  I did cry once, when Brett and Karen danced their last song to "Together Forever" by Rick Ashley.  Brett had loved that song since he was in high school.  Watching him dance to it with his new bride, surrounded by all of the friends that he had made since that time period was emotionally overwhelming.  I was so happy for him.  It was the perfect way to end a fantastic day.