The news was calling it the hottest day of the year. It was expected to be 105 degrees and feel like 115-120 degrees with the humidity. Many prayers were said, extra water bottles were bought, the ceremony site was moved to under the shade and then everything was handed over to the Lord. No matter what at the end of the day Chris and I were saying I do!
As one of our guests said,"you must have an in with the man upstairs because the temperature gauge in our car just kept dropping as we were driving here." A true Virginia summer rainstorm rolled threw just as I was taking pre-wedding pictures with my fabulous bridesmaids. After a quick dash in the rain I popped into the kitchen behind a shocked member of the catering staff to avoid a unlucky run-in with the groom. All the kitchen staff stopped what they were doing and starred at me and Roxanne (she was holding my dress thank goodness!) standing amidst the sinks and stoves. Once I explained the situation they all rushed to help me through the room without getting dirty while saying congratulations.
I exited through the kitchen into the country club's restaurant where surprised customers yelled well wishes. In the room next to the restaurant my handsome groom was waiting with his groomsmen to take their pictures. Thanks to our quick thinking photographer and the Chris covering his eyes and facing the wall I was able to make it to the safety of the bridal room where I promptly put my feet up, hiked up the several layers of my wedding dress and drank lots of water to cool down.
Not only did the rain give me that cute little antidote it also cooled the area down about 20 degrees. The ceremony was slightly delayed but everyone was much more comfortable.
Soon everyone was seated the processional started. As Roxanne started through the gate into the courtyard pulling a wagon with the ring bearer and flower girls, my Dad and I were waiting to walk down the aisle. She's a real Pippa, what can I say! That is when the butterflies hit. I had made it through our entire engagement without being nervous at all until that moment. I was so excited and yet so nervous. A quick kiss and an "I love you" and we were off. Two steps through the gate and into the courtyard and the butterflies disappeared and were replaced with a warm happy feeling. I saw Chris for only a second or two before he disappeared behind all of our family and friends as they stood for Dad and I to walk by. Once we entered the aisle the only thing I remember seeing is Chris' face. I remember every detail of his smile and his eyes starring back at me. My old roomie, Emily, told me she knew when I entered the courtyard because Chris' face just lit up and just as everyone stood he said, "I can't see her anymore!"
I don't remember much about what my Dad said as he married us, but I do remember looking at Chris and hearing him say "You're beautiful." and "I love you." Walking back up the aisle as Mr. and Mrs. Corcoran was the best moment of my life. I was finally married to my best friend and it was now time to celebrate!!!
Stay tuned for more details about the reception!!
