Saturday, November 7, 2009

Here is everything (that I remember) that happened on the wedding day!

I woke up nice and early (not planned) and played on the internet while everyone slept more than me. I went out for a surprise baby shower with the Malagueñas. Eliza was so surprised! That was wonderful; not to mention the omelet with bacon, brie, and apples! Of course I brought home iced tea for the ladies, and then we were off to pick up bridesmaids and meet at Le Chateau!

When we got to Le Chateau, right after noon, we played games and hung out. Donna and Maritza got there and got to business on our hair and make-up. They were amazing! Everyone looked beautiful! We did pause and eat lunch (amazing salads!) but otherwise it was hair and make-up for four and a half hours. I went last.

When Maritza was finishing my hair, I heard Matt's voice, and that is when everything finally hit me. Okay, now it's real. We finished getting me ready and into my dress, and then went downstairs for photos. The guys had already started and the girls went second. Then Tim (photographer) was able to get photos of the first time we saw each other. It was wonderful, and the pressure melted away. We did group and family shots and went to see the ceremony set-up.

Then it was upstairs for the Ketubah signing. All the bridesmaids and groomsmen were there and Marc talked about the importance of being a witness and then we were married. The boys went back downstairs to greet people and seat them. This part sucked. The ladies were stuck upstairs doing nothing again (great opportunity for me to stress again). And then we were downstairs lining up and the music started. When it was my turn and I started walking down the aisle, I almost starting crying while looking at Matt. And then I looked at my feet for a second and pulled myself together.

The ceremony itself was wonderful! It started with a blessing over the wine, and a quick sip. We said our vows in Hebrew according to Jewish tradition and then did the ring ceremony in English. Then our friends and family were called up to read the Sheva Brachot, or seven blessings. They bless God, humanity, and the bride and groom. Linda read a passage from the Bible. Marc talked about our Ketubah. We held hands throughout the ceremony. Matt crushed the glass. And we kissed!

Then we were back upstairs for the Yichud, or a few minutes to ourselves. We got a chance to eat, talk to each other, go to the bathroom, and just be alone.

During the cocktail hour, we took lots of pictures. We didn't get to take all of them which saddens me now, but I think we got most of them. And then on to the reception. It went too quick. We wished it had continued for at least another 45 minutes. We talked to almost everyone. We ate. We danced. We had a really great time.

Thank you to everyone who helped get us to this moment. Thank you for sharing in our joy. Thank you for helping us celebrate!