My best friend married her best friend. On my birthday! And it was the most PERFECT wedding. We arrived at the Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing Resort (www.wiegele.com) to the tranquility of Blue River mountain air, lavish rustic cabins, and all my most precious people in the whole world … all gathered at this very wedding. Everyone had their game face on, especially as us girls prepared the stunning flower arrangements – if Polina ever decides to take a break from her spinning law career, she can definitely rock a floral sweatshop … I mean, boutique!
On the big day, I squeezed in a refreshing swim in the picturesque lake at the heart of the resort, where my parents met me with a huge birthday bouquet of red roses. Amazing. Then my responsibilities as a bridesmaid resumed, quickly giving way to the the ‘photozilla’ side, as I longed to document each moment. Oh, man, was it ever hard to put down my camera. But I did it … a couple of times.
Photographer Nicole Marshall (nicolemarshallphotography.com) was such a trooper, documenting our chaos and happy tears – with a badly sprained ankle! Hope you’re better Nicole, can’t wait to see your photos!
Gentle clouds covered the harsh 2 o’clock light just as the ceremony started and Justin’s sister Dani began to pour her heart out with a beautiful live version of the song “At Last.” No bride has ever looked so beautiful. Even Justin’s chin trembled as Polina floated down the aisle. “Pinch yourself really hard,” whispered Tannis to help me with the happy-tears-red-nose-lumpy-eyelashes situation. Thanks, Tannis! Then the radiant Mr. and Mrs. graced us with their hugs, champagne, and orange creamsicles.
The reception was fantastic, with everything from the hearty Italian dinner, to the seductive first dance to Diana Krall’s “Temptation,” to my favorite part – STEALING OF THE BRIDE! We had no time to waste. As I thoughtfully rid the mingling Polina of her wine glass, she was scooped up by Ilya and Alik, my sneaky accomplices. With the help of kind guests, we raised $665 for ransom in a matter of minutes! Who took the money, you ask? Naturally, the bride!
Polina and Justin, you are a constant. The most charming couple I know. I love you dearly and can’t wait to see your family grow!
by Katya Nova
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