So, an update is in order now that so many things have happened. This past spring, I found a dress so perfect, so on sale, and so alluring on I had to get it. An ivory mermaid halter style at David's Bridal, one that I had admired online for a few weeks before the sale. Brett actually told me about the fantastic sale and we went together-- oh no! for the superstitious, oh yes! for the practical-- and found the exact dress I had been pining for. I must say, I look great in it and can't wait to start designing accessories with my mentor, Toysa soon.
I had not to think but a minute where I wanted our wedding ceremony to take place, and that's Silver Creek United Methodist Church. I have been a member here since 2005, and love the little white country church and it's cozy feeling. The only hang-up might be is that it's so cozy it only holds 148. That, unfortunately, means some guests will be receiving "reception only" invitations.
We have also booked our reception for The North Forty Golf Club. This is a great location because, well, it's big enough and air conditioned. These two factors, along with it's proximity to Kalamazoo (a larger selection of hotels and weekend things to do there) and that the North Forty is north of Dowagiac, bringing Brett's family closer to home as the night progresses. I found no other match so perfect within the local of the church. The reception hall is truly a classy joint to throw a party in!
Brett, Sue and Mike Mason and I traveled to Indianapolis, IN recently to taste wines for the reception. We (of course) wanted to use Easley Winery, seeing as this is owned and operated by my cousin Meridith and Mark Easley. I have "grown up" with their wines-- that being they were the first to educate me about wine when I was coming of age, and love the variety that they offer and their family owned atmosphere. We all had a great time together, even though we only had a short visit. I was able to ask my cousin Madeline to be my junior bridesmaid (finally!) and care for the guest book and gift table. She and I had such a nice visit, and she helped us taste the wines while we were at the winery. It has been too long since I visited Indianapolis! Also, my cousins Molly Butters and Aaron Hale have been settling into their first home after being quite a traveling couple (but that's expected of newlyweds) now have settled into their first home in Indianapolis. They were exuberant in their hostess and host responsibilities-- showing us a great German restaurant and taking us for a tour of the city. Brett and I went out with them after the "old folks" hit the hay.
In conclusion, we all loved the wines and decided we will be providing a champagne toast, and a selection of one dry red, one dry white, one sweet red and one sweet white for our guests. There will also be beer selections, but those are yet to come. Any liquor will be a cash bar.
Brett and I have also chosen a caterer, that being Pistachios Catering of Kalamazoo. We went for our meeting, then tasting, and can't wait to try their cakes now!
