My third July wedding reception was for Jennifer and Sean; they’re friends with my sister and had planned on having their reception under a large tent in Jen’s mom’s backyard. However, about three months before the big day, they decided to change their plans. As a result, the big day became much smaller, the guest list became limited to close friends and family, and the event became one that will be one of my most favorites for years to come.
The ceremony and reception were held at a summer cottage on the shores of Waquoit Bay in Falmouth MA; it belongs to my grandmother and has been in our family for a number of generations. Although I’ve been there just about every summer since birth, I had never seen it set up for a wedding (I still haven’t figured out where Sean managed to hide all of the furniture). Had I known about its potential as a wedding venue, I might have chosen it for my own reception back in 2006!
The afternoon began with the ceremony on the beach; my wireless sound system came in handy for this, as it was portable enough for me to take down the stairs and onto the sand with no troubles. Afterwards, Jen and Sean’s 40 guests gathered on the side lawn for cocktails and then came in for dinner. Despite the lack of air conditioning on one of the hottest days of the year, everyone was in great spirits. After a short toast by the best man, we were treated to a photo slideshow of the bride and groom, put together by Jen’s sister Stephanie.
The food, provided by The Crazy Chefs Caterers, was outstanding. In addition to providing the projector and screen for the aforementioned slideshow, I also set up some special lighting to highlight the cake table, appetizer and dessert stations.
Once dinner service was finished, the bride and groom opened the dance floor with their first dance of the evening - Sonny & Cher’s “I Got You Babe”. Everyone loved it, and quickly filled the dance floor at the start of the next song.
The night ended at 11 pm with a dance to Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s version of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow”. And somehow, all of the furniture found its way back into the cottage the very next day.
Congratulations, Jen & Sean!
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