The fun-filled
wedding weekend has now wrapped up! Eli and I arrived in Cedar Rapids
on Friday afternoon when things started off with decorating the
reception venue.
Even a couple of the groomsmen got involved in the
decorating process. Later that night at the rehearsal, Eli was so
excited to meet the flower girl. They were a good match, only 3 months
apart in age. The evening wrapped up with supper at the local Pizza
Ranch.
Eli's ringbearer gift: Personalized tractor piggy bank!
This kept him entertained a long time that night!
My parents wanted to take Eli home with them Friday night so he could have a good night's sleep at their house while Ian worked all day (and late into the night) on Friday, which meant I had the hotel room all to myself that night...heaven!
My mom, dad, and Eli, as well as Ian arrived Saturday morning. Eli was really looking forward to wearing his tux and most especially his shiny black shoes.
The wedding day was beautiful from beginning to end.
a simply stunning bride
Megan wanted to incorporate an elegant theme into her wedding with a touch of bling, and she did just that. The ceremony was filled with lots of emotions. My favorite part was during the beginning when Jeff sang the song "Then" (by Brad Paisley) to Megan.
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| Tom, a friend of Jeff and Jeff's daughter, Kim |
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| Brian, a friend of Jeff and Megan's friend Miranda |
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| David, a friend of Jeff and Jamie (maid of honor) |
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| Jeff's brother Joe with me (matron of honor) |
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| Jeff's cousin's daughter Izzy with Eli |
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| Apparently worn out from his walk down the aisle |
After the ceremony, we were escorted to the reception (with a few stops along the way) in a huge Hummer limo.
It was neat the see the reception area again once we arrived, transformed into a dimly lit ballroom just as Megan had envisioned.
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| Paper lanterns where guests could leave well wishes for the bride and groom |
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| Harley groom's cake, which was tie-dyed black and orange on the inside! |
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| The snack table even consisted of personalized M&M's not only in coordinating colors of the wedding but also with Megan and Jeff's picture printed on them |
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| Jeff's uncle took an image from the photographer on a memory card as soon as it was snapped that day and then went to get it printed to be placed in this frame at the reception before anyone arrived...so neat! |
As matron of honor, I knew I would have to script my speech ahead of time; no spontaneous speech for me. Here it is:
To Megan and Jeff
On Your Wedding Day
Megan and Jeff, your wedding day is finally here.
I am privileged to be the matron of honor for a
sister so dear.
You have been a part of my life now for the past
29 years.
Thinking of the memories we've shared and now
looking at the beautiful woman you are almost brings me to tears.
Growing up, we were as opposite as could be.
How we have come from the same family is still a
mystery.
While you were always wanting to be outside
helping Dad and an animal lover at heart,
I would much rather be inside reading a book or
creating some sort of art.
While I would still describe myself as more
reserved while you are a bit bolder,
As time has gone on, we have grown closer as we
have gotten older.
Enter Jeff into the picture - One of the first
things Megan mentioned about him was that he was a drummer in a band.
Just her type - leave it to her to find a fellow
Harley rider to accompany her across the land.
As we have gotten to know Jeff, we have enjoyed
his sense of humor along with his musical skill.
If incorrect grammar is used on your Facebook
page and you are waiting for someone to notice, he will.
Both Megan and Jeff can be described as devoted
to their families, as well as a hard worker.
They enjoy going on trips and even to Sturgis
Jeff took her.
As for advice, Jeff, treat her like a queen.
A happy wife makes for a home that is a happy
scene.
The tiny details of your wedding day will one day
become a distant memory in your mind.
Build a strong foundation for a marriage on the
type of love and trust that will truly bind.
With the end of my poem drawing to a close, let's
make a toast to the new husband and wife.
Here's to Megan and Jeff; may you experience
happiness today and always throughout your married life.
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| Yet another emotional moment ~ the father/daughter dance |
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| Personalized |
I think everyone had a good time at the reception. The meal was delicious!! The DJ was great and there was even a photo booth with props to provide some entertainment. I enjoyed the photo booth way more than I thought I would! I loved looking at all the funny poses that were captured by everyone.
The cake is always one of my favorite parts of a wedding, and this was the BEST cake I have ever tasted! Such fun flavors too--pink champagne, chocolate with raspberry filling, red velvet, and I think there might have been one more that I can't remember at the moment, but I had my fill of cake with more than one piece...
The weekend wound down on Sunday with the gift opening hosted at Jeff's aunt's house. It was nice to spend more time with Jeff's extended family that day.
When Eli found his ring bearer pillow again on Sunday morning, he looked up at me and asked, "Where's my girl at?" He loved all the new little friends he met at the wedding!
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| A hotel stay would not be complete without a swim in the pool Sunday morning. |
Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Nelson and best of luck to you
as you begin your new life together now as husband and wife!
