Stephen and Andrea's Wedding

--> My son Stephen and his fiancée Andrea were married Saturday evening, June 13, at 6:30 PM in the ballroom of the Ashland Plaza Hotel. The reception was immediately following the ceremony at the same location. It was so amazing and beautiful and bittersweet and precious...all at the same time.
The whole day was hectic from start to finish. The bride, her mother Diane, and I were treated to a morning at a local spa by the father of the bride, Gary. That was sooooo awesome! Then there was the mad rush of having the rehearsal only 3 1/2 hours before the actual ceremony because some of the attendants couldn't get here from out of town until then. Gary and my sister-in-law Mae had to pick up the cake and bring it to the hotel (this bakery didn't deliver), plus he had to pick up the bride's bouquet and the men's boutonnières. I made two or three frantic trips home to get things and to change into my own mother-of-the-bridegroom clothes. Regardless, both families worked together as one great team!
The hotel was super. The staff was very helpful and accommodating, the room was a perfect size, and the food was excellent. Their involvement took a lot of the work and worries from the bride's family.
The rehearsal was fun, and the minister, George Steele, was awesome. He organized everything according to the wishes of the bride and groom, and he had a wealth of helpful suggestions when a little help was needed. His experience and sense of humor were invaluable.
The ceremony was incredible. The bride was lovely, the groom was handsome, and the attendants were perfect. George chose the best Bible verses to read and the prayers were just right. The bride and groom also wrote their own vows and shared them with each other. By 7:00 PM, surrounded by friends and family, they were pronounced husband and wife!
The reception was so much fun! Andrea and Stephen were toasted (and roasted!) by their maid of honor (her sister Christina) and best man (Stephen's cousin Chris). There was lots of good food, music, and dancing. There was even a Conga line at one point!
Around 11:00 PM, it was time for Stephen and Andrea to leave. The couple had to catch their plane to Florida for the honeymoon. It was difficult watching them leave, but it was a happy moment, too. It was very special knowing that they were starting their lives as a married couple with all the wonderful things that come with that beautiful bond.
It's also good knowing that both of them have joined families that love them. We love Andrea dearly, and her family adores Stephen. Both families mesh so well!
Soon they'll be returning to the real world and taking up the responsibilities of life. But, for now, Stephen and Andrea are enjoying themselves on the last week of their honeymoon. Thanks so much to all of you who have sent good thoughts, prayers, and wishes for them. I would also like to express my appreciation to all the wonderful family members and friends who took part in any way to help make Andrea and Stephen's wedding so successful. Many hugs to all!