The Beach Wedding

Bermuda is a social place.  Many expats come seeking a couple of years of fun, sun, and adventure, and along the way find a spouse.  It does seem to happen a lot around here.  As for me, I will be leaving with 2 extra cats.  But a couple of Saturday's ago I went to a wedding for two friends who met near the end of their time in Bermuda.  They moved to Canada together, and 3 years later returned to Bermuda to exchange their vows.  Old friends and soon to be friends flew in from England, Qatar, USA, Canada, and Newfoundland...er I mean from across Canada, Vancouver to Newfoundland (I can never resist a

Newfie joke)

The wedding was held at Marley Beach, a private beach available to renters at Marley Beach Cottages in case any of you are wondering how to do this for yourselves one day in the future.  On the afternoon of the wedding, the skies darkened and threatened, the winds picked up, but everyone stoically prepared, for better or worse.  The flowers and tables were laid out with care, the champagne prepared, the wine glasses shined, the famous Keith cupcakes iced with care and adorned with butterfly decorations and aligned with other deserts, gifts from the bride were hung with care for the reception, and people were starting to arrive.

Everyone was wearing their best -- hats and fascinators had been encouraged.

The guests gathered on the beach and waited for the happy couple to the undertone of waves crashing on the beach while our star violinists Lisa and Laura played on.

Soon a groom arrived, and the ever calm Steve even showed some nervous energy bubbling over.  He dealt with this is the best way he is equipped...by talking a lot, and the audience got a little comedy show while he bantered with the minister, his best man and brother Sheldon, and the small crowd. 

After what felt like a long time, the beautiful bride Louise arrived on the arm on her father.

The ceremony was perfect, a reflection of their personalities, it was light, heartfelt, and beautiful.

After the vows, the readings, and the signing of the register, it was time for a quick biodegradable non-rice toss, and to begin the celebrations with a glass of Pims on the beach.

"She went for it!!"

Biodegradable non-rice toss for the benefit of seabirds

The official witnesses -- Best Man Sheldon and Maid of Honor Amanda

I caught the best man and maid of honor for a picture, and took one more of the happy couple, and then it was back up the hill to mingle with the other guests.  I have to say, they have some pretty amazing friends.  I enjoyed spending time with so many fellow Canadians -- we had an Edmontonian, a vet, lots of good photographers, some cat lovers, a museum director, an aerospace engineer, heck, I may have even met James Bond at one point...of course I couldn't really say if I did, so...   I made new friends, learned new stories, and sipped wine with wonderful friends, old and new.  It was a fabulous evening with fabulous people.  The band played on til midnight, and the dance-lawn was still packed for Journey and Nirvana right til the end,  Even the parents and aunts were in the make shift mosh pit -- that speaks for what a great crowd it was.  The evening ended with a slow dance for bride and groom...neatly ending the day that began the rest of their lives together at midnight.  And that is how a Bermuda wedding is done!

I know it will be a long and happy road ahead!  Best wishes Steve and Louise.