This month has been an absolute world wind. Between work, weddings, traveling, my dog, and feeding Matt, I have been out straight. But, this month also had one of the most memorable events in my life, my bridal shower.
I am truly humbled and lucky to have such amazing friends and family.
My friends, sister, mother, and mother –in-law went above and beyond to make this happen. From the decorations to my flower crown (that I specifically asked for and picked out) was perfect!
Throughout this wedding planning process I have thought a lot about my support system, family, and friends. Moving to NY almost four years ago, has not been easy. There has been, and will be, a lot of challenges due to the distance between my family and I. Often times I feel left out, disconnected, or non-supportive. But after seeing everyone show their support for my “new family” I knew I wasn’t. I knew that no matter where I lived or what happened they would be there for me.
To start off the weekend my mother in law, Diane, and her girlfriends, AKA, Matt’s aunts, came up early. We had a great time making the favors, eating and of course enjoying some cocktails. I know I have said it before but, I am truly lucky to have the Stamblers. They’re welcoming, kind , loving and treat me as one of their own.
The morning of the shower my friends and bridesmaids came over to try on their dresses! It was crazy to see all of this planning finally start to coming together. They quickly packed the cars and went to the restaurant to set up. I hung back with Donna until they were ready for us.
To be honest I barely remember the décor, flowers or the food. All I remember was the amount of people. I still can’t believe how lucky I am. The girls did an amazing job setting up the games, tables, and pictures. There were people there who traveled hours, put aside other obligations and one who was less than a week away from her own wedding in Long island to come.
Tiger, Aka bridezilla, conveniently drove by on his boat only 15 minutes after I arrived to the shower. He and the boys spent the day on the water and drove by the marina just in time. This was planned. It was no surprise that he wanted some of the attention.
About an hour later, the boys came to the party. To be honest, they were in good shape. I know how dangerous beers can get on the “good-n-you”.
Without any time to spare Tiger saw my flower crown and wanted one of his own, again not surprised. The “moms club” came to the rescue, making him an amazing crown, which he never took off.
Although I make jokes about my dad, he is truly my best friend. We have a different relationship than most, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. His humor is the only thing getting us through this, because without it we would be a sobbing mess. I know nothing will change, but he feels like he’s losing a limb. We can’t even get through a conversation about the wedding never mind the song we are dancing to.
I am no help, I get emotional with anything ….sentimental? At the shower I was a bag of tears. My bridesmaids and my sister all made me something. Something I will use, and decorate my forever home with, and to me it will eternally bring love and happiness. My college friends gave the gift of travel, lying, to get in contact with our travel agent to set up private tours on our honeymoon. These memories we will cherish for a lifetime. My mother who deserves her own honeymoon, made some of the most amazing and special gifts I could have ever asked for. Taking the sleeve of her wedding dress to make me a bag… a very big bag. On top of giving me something new, something borrowed and something blue.
EVERYONES gifts were truly amazing! I got so many special things, meaningful cards and above all love. I cannot thank everyone enough for coming and showing your support for Matt and I. We are spoiled with love, and will forever be grateful to have all of you.
Up next…. Finalizing all of our plans, flowers, hair, dress, outfits and ceremony. T-38 days!
-Ash
