Erik and Dawn
Starting the day off relaxed before Erik and Dawn kicked things into high gear. Family breakfast at the superb hotel restaurant was joined with Majed and his family, plus Cousin Maggie, Uncle John, and Aunt Jackie turned out to be one table away as well. Just for good measure, we caught Alanna and Aunt Sherry on the way out!
Enjoyed the waterfront, then caught up with Constant and Jacqui at pFriem for a decent lunch and tasty beer. Sours and fruity beers seemed to be pFriem's thing, and the appetizers-- Mexican corn in particular-- were excellent.
Had a somewhat chaotic wedding day start, but once we finally all decided to hang out at the bar til the photographers needed the bridesmaids and groomsmen, things went much more smoothly. Had some SNAFU's with tux shirt buttons but I don't think anyone would have noticed otherwise, and from then on out it was time for the first look and photographs.
The ceremony actually kicked off a minute early, Erik's parents kicked off the procession and we all elegantly paraded in. The officiant did an excellent job, the rings made it from the best man to the officiant to the bride and groom after the vows were said, and then it was time for the groom to kiss the bride. We managed to do the grand recessional out and then get the rest of party on its way! (well, while the bride, groom, and families had to stick around for more photos...)
An informal cocktail hour before we packed into dinner. Again, surprisingly good food, an unknown-but-in-the-end not too many speeches, and the bride and groom only disappeared on their guests once. (apparently it was for sunset photos, so can't blame them, but we did wonder where they went!) A few toasts were thrown in as well, learned more about akavit and less about the bride and groom than we would have expected, and then off to the dance floor.
Once a critical mass found their way up to the dance floor, t'was time for the first dance and dancing in general to wrap up the night. I think lots of us stayed up way past bedtime to help the newlyweds celebrate. Congratulations, Dawn and Erik!