I know I’m in the minority here, but I didn’t want a wedding. Don’t get me wrong, I love weddings–other people’s weddings. I found my best friend, someone I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with and that’s good enough for me. But I am an only child and I know I’d be disappointing a lot of friends and family if Adam and I didn’t do something.

I had an exceedingly hard time wrapping my head around the idea of a traditional wedding. Would we get married in New York? How could we keep it small so I didn’t inch down the aisle covered in hives? And that costs how much?! I was beside myself. (And as an aside, I realized *this* is the part no one talks about–the less than blissful early planning stage where you are faced with too many choices and too many zeros. I’m assured what follows is much more enjoyable–I’ll get back to you.)

While I was ‘home’ in Florida a few weeks ago, I met with my childhood best friend’s wedding planner. She calmly talked me off the proverbial ledge. And for the first time since our engagement I felt a huge sense of relief. Maybe we could have a wedding?! We are still finalizing plans for later this year, but with Lisa leading the charge, I know we’re in good hands.

Dear Lisa,
It was such a pleasure seeing you again last week. You were so kind to listen to me wax on about my (many) wedding fears and overall resistance to the idea of any celebration larger than a dinner party for ten. But for the first time since our engagement, I feel like this could happen. Maybe wedding isn’t a four-letter-word?! The girl who didn’t want a wedding is now entertaining a whole weekend of fun?! With a multiple of ten guests? I’ve come a very long way and have you to thank for that. Here and now, I dub you the Wedding Whisperer. I am cautiously looking forward to “the big day” knowing you and your many spreadsheets will be guiding this ship.
Fondly,
Lauren

Rifle Paper Co.