Festivities became on April 22, at Andy's parent's beautiful home in Sussex. Morrie, as a very proud usher, and I, were invited for lunch to meet both families and the rest of the bridal party. That afternoon, and in the wedding activities that followed, Morrie and I felt honoured to be included and take pleasure in the family aspect of general life, and especially, a wedding. With our own families in Australia and Canada, we do miss the Sunday roasts and relaxed family weekends.
April 29/30 was a pink, giggly, girlie hen weekend, enjoyed by Lou, Jo, Lucy, Michelle, Jane, Lisa, Sarah and myself. Following drinks at our hotel in Mayfair, we hailed two black cabs to dine, drink and dance at a jazz club. Lou was glowing in fluffy pink tiara and wand. Shopping was high on the agenda the following morning until time for tea at the Ritz. A very refined weekend.
The following weekend, May 4-6 was the men's turn: Andy, Rob, Dave, Stewart, Jon, Nick, Mark, Glen, Adam, John, James and Morrie. Go-carting, paint-balling and drinking. From the photos the men looked to be having fantastic time. I'm still waiting to hear the stories of what was not captured on film...
The wedding experience slowed for two weeks, allowing the anticipation of the BIG DAY to build. On Saturday 27 May at 2pm unfolded a traditional English wedding. Under the blue, star-filled, dome of the tiny Washington chapel, Andy and Lou gave their wedding vows and a slightly eccentric vicar gave his interpretation of the wedding programme. In true English style, a light shower of rain greeted the newly married couple as they left the church, but the sun smiled while photos were taken at the Chatsworth Hotel in Worthing.
We, as I am sure too the other guests, greatly enjoyed the dinner, speeches and dancing. As we had spent so much time with both families and Andy and Lou's other friends before the wedding day, the reception was a very fun party. We also enjoyed the company of Heiko and Dominique, who had flown in from Germany to attend the wedding.
After a walk along the sea front the following morning, we dropped by Lou's family home for lunch and the great merriment of present opening. Just like Christmas. We wished the bride and groom, the best for their honeymoon in Indonesia, with shaving cream and tins tied the exhaust.
