From the moment I woke on 8th of April, I focussed on being in the moment. Forgotten were the dramas leading up to the wedding; a freak storm that damaged the reception venue (externally thank goodness!),my paper flowers held up in customs. I wanted to concentrate on Chad, on Grace, on us.
As my hair and make up were done, I saw the bride I was becoming and I felt beautiful. I was so excited as we drove to where our pre ceremony photos were to be taken, itching to see my groom. And when I saw him, my smile was so big. That "first look" was perfect. Just us, in a beautiful garden. Quiet, peaceful and I felt myself relax, there was no need for nerves as Chad was by my side and would be for the rest of my life.
After the photos, the bridesmaids and I left the boys at the church and went back to my parents' place to pick up Grace. She was so happy to be in her 'party dress' and looked adorable.
At the church, Chad came out to take Grace in. She remained in his arms the entire ceremony. Walking down the aisle, on my Dad's arm, I felt so wonderful. I focused on the music, the moment with my Dad, and Chad and Grace at the end of aisle.
The ceremony was all we wanted it to be, every word had meaning. It felt like it was just us three in the room. When we walked back up the aisle as husband and wife, I felt so elated.
We lingered outside the church for family pictures before leaving for the reception venue. Chad, Grace and I left our guests to enjoy champagne and canapés' and headed onto the golf course for photos and quiet time. After all eyes had been on her at the church (my girl is not a fan of the spotlight), I felt Grace relax and she squealed with delight at having a ride in a golf buggy.
Returning to the reception venue, I saw the work of our stylist. The room was beautiful, lush plants and flowers filling the space, elegant table centerpieces, and our personalised wedding favours taking pride of place, making people smile.
Speeches from the best man, maid of honour, and my father made us laugh and cry. I then had my chance to speak, and I was so proud that I didn't cry and was able to give my heartfelt thanks to everyone and tell Chad how much he means to me.
As the formal reception wound up late in the afternoon, we all headed back to my parents' house. I think over the course of the day I was able to spend time with all of the guests. And like a typical bride, I barely ate or drank, but my joy helped me maintain my energy.
It was a perfect day.
Two days later we took off on our honeymoon. Grace was settled with my parents and while we missed her so much, I am so glad we took time for us. I loved our US adventure. Sharing some of my favourite places with Chad was so much fun, and experiencing new things together created priceless memories.
So now we are back. We are getting back into a routine and I head off to work tomorrow.
Some people say that your wedding day and honeymoon goes fast and all those months of planning just zip past and that you don't notice things you had spent hours on.
I disagree. I savoured every moment. I felt all our planning was worth it, and the things we took extra time on (the vows, the wedding favours, the paper bouquets, the cake, the room decorations) turned out exactly how I hoped they would.
I'm so happy.
