Preparing for our children’s wedding is such a special moment in time. The summer my oldest, Aubrae, got married was a complete whirlwind of activities. My friend Val will tell you that the amplified exercise schedule almost killed us. You know that the wedding is all about your children, but the fact is, those photos of you will always be there. A Mother of the Bride has to do what she can to ensure that she looks her best.
Lists need to be made. My calligraphy needed to be perfected for all the hand addressed invitations. There are so many aspects that can overshadow the pure joy that this occasion brings. Aubrae was a wonderful bride. She loved the first dress she tried on. Her bridesmaids were her little sisters, so choosing their gowns happily did not involve making sure that color chosen matched any visible tattoo’s. She and Chris were hands on, having family get involved in the making of favors and decorations. Budgets were agreed upon and as closely followed as possible. To help in this regard, her Dad worked as much overtime as he could get and I drove a wheat truck for a local farmer during harvest. This was a first for me and I loved it!
The true memories of that summer always bring a smile to my face. My Dad and stepmom arrived here the week before. Our family bridal party enjoyed a formal “high tea” at the tea house in Wichita. We had a family movie night that just happened to coincide with the release of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”. We had done all the preparation, so this last week was pure joy for all involved.
These memories are all coming back to me as my youngest daughter prepares for her September wedding. This will be slightly more involved considering that the couple lives a state away, but it will give us great excuses for weekend visits while testing wedding cakes and making sure all other details are handled.
All I can say is watch out Val. The exercising and diet plan is about to begin…someone just needs to remind me to look at the framed photo of the bride and her parents on my desk to keep everything that is about to happen in perspective.
