A Long Time Coming

This past weekend, Ed and I had the pleasure to witness a wedding that has been in the making for quite some time.  Not for just the two loves getting married, but for an entire segment of the population.  My best friend Jim married his best friend Daniel on a warm summer day in July.  And it is 100% legal and 100% recognized by the state of New York and the Federal Government.  Finally!

I've spoke about my friendship with Jim and Daniel in the past so I don't want to go overboard with the gushing.  But I have to say, I'm feeling very nostalgic after having been to their beautiful wedding.  From the start, it was clear that the two of them were made for each other.  They are fun loving, high spirited men with impeccable taste and more passion than one couple needs. They have endured many obstacles and faced them with strength and integrity.  Their intense drive to succeed in both their careers and their personal life is truly inspiring.  I feel very lucky to be a part of their lives and to call them my family.

We arrived in NY the night before the big day and spent some time with the Mangiaracina family before heading out east to the Three Village Inn (more on the family time in a separate blog).  It was 96 degrees with 98% humidity so when we saw the ceremony chairs set up outside, we knew we were in for some sweat.  But that didn't matter.  The setting was beautiful just as I knew it would be.

The ceremony began with a processional of the family members.  The parents, followed by the siblings and finally the two most handsome men in the crowd.  Jim and Daniel looked perfect - new suits with matching ties and watches.  It was a great moment to see them walk down the aisle together.

The ceremony was perfect.  I don't remember what exactly was said, but I do remember the feeling I had seeing my two friends become a married couple.  It was a very proud moment and I have to admit that I teared up on more than one occasion.

After the ceremony, it was time to celebrate.  And these boys know how to throw a party!  The decor was cottage chic complete with hydrangeas in mason jars with roping accents. The music hit on every genre and kept the party going all through the night.  A special moment was the first dance to Sade's "By Your Side" - a song that has been a part of their relationship for quite some time.  But I have to say, the best part about the first dance was when Ms. Aguilera picked up the pace with "Ain't No Other Man" - an appropriate way to get the dance party started!

It truly was an amazing night and I'm sorry to say that I only had my iPhone to document it because it deserved a real camera.  One with a really expensive lens!  I did manage to get a few shots with my boys though and even though they are blurry, they are special. :)

Congratulations Jim and Daniel!  May you have a long, happy life together filled with love and laughter...and cocktails of course!  xoxo