With September’s “Big Event” a little over three months away, we all gathered in Richmond this weekend to discuss details. And, since Maggie and Jan’s wedding will be held at the Lewis Ginter Botantical Gardens, it seemed only fitting that we get together at the Robins Tea House for some lunch to scope out the room where the reception will be held and then leisurely tour the gardens.
I’m don’t know why I stress so while packing, but I seem to carefully choose my outfits as if I’m selecting costuming for a play. Perhaps it’s the fault of my recurring dream of running for the school bus in my pajamas, but I feel a tremendous weight on wearing “the right thing”. This weekend called for things appropriate to my role as “mother-of-the-bride”; stylish and perky, yet at the same time, wise and thoughtful.
As luck would have it, Saturday morning dawned damp and dreary with forecasted downpours throughout much of the day. My white crops and strappy sandles were cast aside for long pants, Sketchers and a waterproof jacket with a hood. There would be no fashion statements for me other than, “I’m comfortable and dry!”
Despite my wardrobe change and the persistent threat of rain we’ve become accustomed to this spring, our lunch together was very productive. We are blessed by a mutual enjoyment of each other’s company and our times together are full of laughter and love. Given the choice between a sunny day and pleasant in-laws, I’d go for the pleasant in-laws any day. At lunch, we were able to get some perspective on the size of the room, the tables and general decor which will come in handy as we finalize our plans for floral arrangements, etc.
After lunch we took a brisk walk under our umbrellas to the Flagler Perennial Gardens, where the ceremony will be held. Even in the rain it is a beautifully peaceful place. The beds were full of spring bloomers but most impressive were the many varieties of peonies bursting with color at every turn.
On the lawn, sixty white chairs with puddles on their seats sat in two neat rows. I felt a moment’s twinge of sympathy for that day’s bride and groom and made a mental note that we really need to set up a back up plan in case of rain!
The rain stopped for just a few moments as we explored the pavilion and nearby walks, Teresa and I imagining what it will be like as our children enter from opposite sides and then leave together as man and wife. Then, all to suddenly, our dreams were interrupted by another downpour.
September seemed so far away when Maggie and Jan announced their engagement in November. Now we are two-thirds the way there and so many of the details we put off for later are in need of attention because it is later.
Dreaming will have to wait for another day. Teresa and I have important decisions to make; most importantly, what we will wear! More costuming. We spent a couple of hours scanning the web looking for “the dress” with no luck. (Heavy sigh.) So, that hunt will continue.
On the bright side, we have chosen a menu, booked rooms for out-of-town guests and have some working ideas for flowers, favors and decorations. Martha Stewart is doing a superb job of keeping us on track. (www.MarthaStewartweddings.com) I would be lost without her help.
Maggie and Jan’s wedding will indeed be a special day. Even if the skies open up and we’re sitting under umbrellas with ziplock bags pulled over our shoes, the celebration of their committment to each other will shine enough for us and more importantly, them.
It would be nice if the sun does manage an appearance though.