I didn’t expect the chain reaction I kicked off when I proposed to Emily would take so much time and effort. In hindsight, the proposal was the easy part.

We’ve had to discuss what we wanted in a wedding, examine our finances, consider venue and lodging options, create a guest list, choose wedding colors, build a blog–and even decide whether the wedding cake should sport flowers or seashells. The list of wedding preparations is overwhelming, and it wears you down like waves crashing on rocks. I am truly thankful that Emily took on most of the grunt work.

Our venue, Stone Crest Cellars, will save us a lot of planning worries.

Why must this wedding stuff be so complicated? In hindsight, I was naive. I thought we could just email everyone an invitation, show up at a park, grill some burgers, and get it done. But it’s not like planning a house party at all! There’s etiquette to follow. We must have flowers, a photographer, suits with matching ties, and (again) the sound of crashing waves…

The truth is that the wedding is as much for Emily and me, as it is for our families and guests. We want you all to have a good time celebrating with us. I just didn’t realize then that, at the wedding, we’ll concurrently act as the hosts, the revelers, and the main attraction. That’s a strange position to be in.

I hope that you enjoy what we have planned. I am happy with our choices, and thank you for understanding them. I look forward to seeing you then!

–Dennis