Wedding Impossible

Two of my best friend’s got married this past weekend – to each other! As you know, this past weekend wasn’t the beautiful weather Charleston is known for but rather gale force winds and driving rain. The weather gods were threatening to throw a kink in the wedding plans but weather can’t stop love or a great party, if you know this crew.
On Saturday morning, the bride and groom awoke to a blustery May day and it was decision time. Should they stick with their original plan of getting married in the Folly River Park, a special place for the couple who took their late bulldog there on walks or switch venues, have peace of mind, and ensure all guests remain shielded from the elements.  With some keen negotiating skills, the groom secured the wonderfully rustic Bowen’s Island dock house on Saturday morning for that evening’s wedding.
What followed, I like to refer to as Mission Impossible: Wedding! I awoke on Saturday morning to a bridesmaid informing me of the venue change and all hands were needed on deck.  Everyone from family members to friends to the wedding party pitched in to make the couple’s dream wedding come true, in a new last-minute location. We realized, we make a pretty good team and possibly a good reality TV show. Just a thought. Once the final touches were put into place you would have never known this was not the original plan all along. The beautiful flower boxes that were meant for the tables in the park made for a special aisle for the stunning bride to walk down.
As the afternoon approached, we donned our finest to watch two people we love and cherish say “I do.” I was honored to have the great pleasure of officiating the wedding. As the bride walked down the aisle, my heart swelled and I was overcome with emotion. The groom looked over and said, “I’m a lucky man.”   It was a special day.
I know the weather and change of venue must have been stressful for the bride and groom, but you never would have known it. They remained calm and laid back, which set the tone for everyone around them. “We can do it” was our mantra and as a family and friend group, we made it happen.
To the happy couple, thanks for always setting the tone –whether it’s on your wedding day or any day. You set a great example of thoughtfulness and love for all those around you.  As I said to your parents, you raise the bar on what it means to be a good friend. Best wishes for an amazing adventure together in life!
 
Katie Wells is a corporate trainer, social media coach, and part-time wedding officiant. You can email her at katie@kewsolutionsinc.com.