Day 3- Wedding Day

Guest Writer-Jamie M.

Officially Married!

As we headed to breakfast, the morning sun and crisp air pushed out the fog of the previous night’s open bar. Familiar faces, new friends and old, wandered the lush gardens of the monastery. We added about a thousand more pictures of lamas and exotic plants to our camera roll before playing a quick pick-up game of basketball. Since it was the wedding day, I decided not to completely humiliate Justin and the other groomsmen. I kept the dunking to a minimum… they might refute these facts, but probably just to save face.

Groomsmen and Groom

It was still quite early, but at this point the women had already retreated to their makeup fortress. Brandishing curling irons and mascara, they began the secretive process of “getting ready” for the wedding. The men also began preparations, mostly Cuban cigars and fine whiskey.

The bride's beautiful sisters

We reconvened not long after lunch, headed to the rooftop, and cracked the bottle of Blue. With our Panama hats and Cubans, we looked like men from a different era (or at least we would have if I didn’t wear my Spiderman t-shirt). After a couple hours of manly silence, a meaningful nod from the groom dispersed the group. It was time.

Justin, Megan, Jen, Jessie, Jamie, Brian, and Suzy

 As previously planned, the guests were allowed a generous amount of time to take in the picturesque garden venue where Justin and Shannon would soon be exchanging vows. The bridesmaids emerged, looking beautiful of course, and we began our march down the rose petal aisle. Escorted by her father, Shannon made her way down the stone steps to meet her groom. Thankfully her radiant beauty took the spotlight, so not many got to see the stupid grin on Justin’s face. (Editor's Note: Fact) Their family and closest friends watched with smiles as Justin and Shannon joined hands and, with their heartfelt (and hilarious) vows, joined their lives together.

Shannon and Uncle Richard

Ashley, Delaney, and Mark

After the usual post-wedding pictures and some rose petal frolicking, it was time to celebrate. We rejoined the rest for a cocktail hour in the garden. There was rum, humitas, and an excellent guitarist. Tim also cemented his blossoming friendship with a lama. The food and festivities were just beginning. The staff herded us inside for dinner, which was quite delicious. Speeches were made. Some brought laughter and others brought tears, but all were delivered with love. The rest of the night was a blur of dancing, partying, and some unforgettable dance moves (that some people would probably like to forget).

No explanation needed

David, Jen, and Kevin