There was something warm, something wonderful about being
'in the know' that day. The news was, Geoff and Helen were sharing a secret
they never COULD keep to themselves ..
that they're in love, that their happiness has been left for safekeeping in
each other, and their future is a 'Bam-in-the-backseat beer fest bus chase'
after the things they work for and deserve. In attendance and 'to the nines'
were family, friends, a priest 'as pleased as punch,' and God. The Almighty
went misty over "Ave Maria" and shed a few raindrops outside the
church; no favor to fancy clothes, but what's Divinity to do?
Immaculate Conception of Albany is a stained glass, acoustic
cavern. Magnificent. Once Helen and her fella were together at the altar,
readings rang, an organ over violin rendition of 'Ave Maria' destined for the
vault and dome of a church was played to pitch perfection, and Geoff and
Helen's exchange of vows was audible way back where my 'nick o' time' arrival
put me. The wedding ceremony, from start to finish, was subtle and simple and
splendid and sweet. In the grandest fashion, it felt like them. Geoff was
described as a gazelle leaping heedless over the hills. I'll say. His best man
behind him, his best girl before, he slipped into a husband like strapping on
his skates. Helen was bright and beautiful, her hair cascading in ringlets and
curls; an elegant band crowned her top like a tiara, and a gossamer vale rested
gently at her skirt, where it ruffles and widens and runs to the floor. Can't
stand there lookin' radiant without a handsome devil on your arm. As it
happens, Geoff's great casting. They both had adorable jitters. Nerves cracked
their way into voices, excited faces fought back tears, and a satisfied fist
pump sealed the deal.
Party time.
Browns has good beer, great beer, really. We drank it. I'm
sure I was drunk. Every time I saw Helen or Geoff, especially the pair, my face
split into a wayward smile and I had no choice but to give'em both hugs. I may
have hugged a few others. Everyone likes a hug, right? *squeeze*
The venue was Rev Hall, a small set of adjoining rooms, a
bar, an elevated platform, and a staircase to a wrap around, look down balcony.
Bluish greens and purples decked the hall in happy colors; white lights rode
the railings up and down; and every girl in a gown (or not) was gorgeous. The bridesmaids
were lovely in lilac, and a striking offset to Helen's purest white; clever
girl.
Joe's best man speech was rife with reminiscence, tales of
college, and memories of best friendship. He was perfectly charming and quick
on his feet, but what made the speech was how happy he seemed to be giving it;
happy for his best friend on his best friend's happiest day.
Ashlea's
Maid of Honor speech was just the same, and spoken so sweetly the room was
quite hushed .. with true-to-Helen compliments of Helen's many graces. She was
poised and as proud as can be to offer the couple their praises and very best
wishes. Being, myself, the newest member of Geoff and Helen's inner circle, it
was rewarding to learn how each of them met their best of friends. Joe and
Ashlea made sure to express the fortune they found in those friendships. Best
man and most honorable maid, for sure.
The rest is a blur of bowties, beer, and beautiful people.
Highlights of my recollection include a Sinatra impersonator with an olive oil
voice, doffing his fedora to the fellas and twirling the ladies. I hear laughter,
see tears and smiles, smell steak and flowers, and have a sense of serene
accomplishment. Geoff and Helen spent a LOT of time planning this wedding. What
I take away above everything else is how devoted they were to their guests,
family and friends alike. Every attendee I've spoken to afterward has had
nothing but wonderful things to say about that night. Geoff & Helen are
really somethin' .. separately and together. It comes as no surprise to anyone,
least of all me, that their wedding was an extravaganza.
Love you two. I warmheartedly wish you the happiest life as
husband and wife!
