Friday, August 14, 2009

Weddings beautiful

The past weekend, I attended a wedding. Despite the chilly weather, it took off well. This was an intermarriage wedding. Even with the unrest that the country succumbed to in 2007-2008, intermarriages are on the rise. And why not? If you ask me, love has a way of bringing people together. One lady's speech touched me. She said once you have intermarried, you don't belong to either tribe you were born into. It made so much sense.Its almost like she was speaking to me.
Anyhow during the wedding,thoughts of how planning a wedding can be tiresome came into mind and couldn't help thinking how far the couple has come to their big day. It all starts when you get engaged. No matter where you were when he popped the question; on a beach, dining at a favorite restaurant or enjoying a simple quiet night at home. One thing you can be sure you will remember that moment for the rest of your lives. Because, in those heart-stopping seconds when you said "yes", both your lives were changed forever. From this moment, you are likely to be floating in the clouds with your feet barely brushing the ground-and that's how it should be. You have embarked upon the most wonderful of journeys. The joy of a life shared. From that time forward, you will focus upon the unique vision that you have for your lives together - and upon the next stage in your journey, the preparations for your wedding day.
You'll very quickly discover that preparing for your wedding takes time, energy, and patience. From discovering your dream gown, choosing your rings, finding a florist, perfect reception venues, caterers, musicians, menus and seating plans, your 'To Do' list will at times seem endless.
You want to start with what you would like for your wedding day. Before your family, friends and wedding service providers become involved, sit down with your partner and dream a little. Will you go traditional or nostalgic? Cocktail or cultural? Urban or rural? There are numerous possibilities to explore before you decide. Nothing is set on stone at this point, so think freely and creatively. Spend time simply imagining your dream day. After all, this day will only happen once.
Obviously, setting the date is a priority bearing in mind that April, August, December are popular for weddings. You will also need to consider the weather patterns for your dream day. You don't want a rainy day for your wedding although your theme will greatly influence this. Also consider other family events, whether some guests will need to travel from upcountry, your own professional and work commitments, and whether you have allowed 'enough time' to organize your wedding. Most wedding planners' advice at least 12 months to organize your wedding.
To everyone who has embarked on this journey, I wish you every success!!
............Me