Family. Just family, the ones who loved us first, fiercely, best. Nine beautiful souls gathered together on this warm late-June evening to witness their child, their mother, their brother marry. Family, becoming one and gathering around the table together for a wonderful meal of celebration. The unrushed, unencumbered feeling of marrying your best friend without all the trappings of a big wedding, without the near-strangers looking on. Just family. The ones who love you best.
This beautiful ceremony was one of my favorite of the year, taking place on the lushly manicured grounds of the Morgan Samuels Inn Bed and Breakfast in Canandaigua. The setting was perfection, with the English Manor feel of the ivy-covered walled garden and the low overhanging trees. The rich fragrance of peonies wafted through the air as the gentle breezes blew grass in the nearby pastures.
On this still, slow evening, they tied their hands together and fastened their hearts to each other. They toasted their love and broke bread together. And after the decedent dinner, they danced together in the thick night air, as the innkeeper’s handsome Vistla dog kept watch over the wedding party.
And if I had my own wedding to do over again, this is what I would choose. Just family.
