September 22, 2004

Our Wedding Day

"We were two and had but one heart." ~ Francois Villon

What an amazing day!!!! Our wedding day was exactly how we had wanted it to be. It was held outdoors on a dock at our favorite park, Green Lake Park, at 7:45 p.m. We had timed it approximately 40 minutes after sunset so that we could have the evening glow in the sky for photos before the ceremony and then have it dark enough to use candlelit lanterns for the ceremony itself. Our wedding day had fallen on a Wednesday because we both love the autumn and wanted to get married on the autumn equinox. Though it was overcast and sprinkling all day, at around 5:15 p.m., just as I was almost done getting ready at the Hotel Vintage Park, the sun peeked through the clouds. Everyone was secretly disappointed because we all thought we'd have the ceremony indoors, but no official decision had been made. Michael and I kept putting it off and hoping the sun would come through. And sure enough, it did. When that sun finally peeked through, phone calls were being made left and right to confirm where the ceremony would be, and Michael and I made the definitive decision to have the outdoor wedding we wanted. What an excellent decision that was! The rain kept away for the rest of the evening and there was a soft mist over the lake that made the location even more romantic. Lanterns lined up the dock and it was absolutely breathtakingly beautiful!

The reception was held at Palisade restaurant, the restaurant where we had our first date. If you've never been to Palisade, it is located in the marina with a great view of the city. Inside, there's a large saltwater pond and lots of the white Christmas lights decorating the inside and adding to the aura of romance. We had a section off in the corner, which was perfect because it didn't feel like we were part of the main dining room. The food was delicious and the service friendly as always! Our cake from B&O Espresso was already there and was absolutely sinful!

The day was made so special because we were able to share it with those closest and dearest to us. Neither of us wanted a big wedding and so we invited immediate family only. THANK YOU to all of them for taking the time out of their busy schedules, especially since it was midweek: Lope & Ellen, Bill & Eleanor, Diane, Dora, Ellie & Alan, Eric & Jen, Neil, Katie, Ethan, Audrey, and Emma. Auntie Toning and Estella weren't able to come, but they were all there in spirit.