I had successfully connected with my inner-bride. Score! However, my outer bride was late. So late, in fact, that I missed my pre-ceremony portrait session in the lobby. Oops. There was a snafu with the bridal suite and we couldn’t start hair and makeup until much later than originally anticipated.

So the guys were ready…but the girls were way behind.

I was surprisingly calm about the whole thing; probably thanks to my photographer (who kept re-assuring me that we were good to go with the 500 pictures he had taken thus far).

This is one of many pictures of people fastening my bustle. It was a complicated task that involved touching my backside quite frequently. And that’s really all I remember about it.

We had three flower girls: Zoe, Mia and Lexi. They were all obsessed with holding my veil, and nearly yanked it off my head a couple of times.

The first look was kind of a big deal. It would be the first time Mr. G saw my wedding gown, and all of my bridal accessories. He didn’t even know what my hair would look like. It was tough not letting him in on every detail, given that Mr. G is my stylist/fashion consultant. Seriously, I’d be a hot mess if not for him.

I love this man.

From what I recall, we didn’t say much to one another. I could tell by the way he looked at me that he approved.

After the first look, Mr. G was promptly called downstairs as the guests were starting to arrive. I was anxious to go down and peek, but was forbidden to leave the suite. There are those flower girls again…and they appear to be holding my veil. Good job, girls 🙂

It turned out to be the perfect time for me to chat with my bridesmaid, Megan, and MOH, Nora. They are true friends who know what I’m all about. Even though we live 3,000 miles away, I carry them in my heart.

And every time I miss the east coast, I remember that they carry me in their hearts, too, and it makes me feel a little less sad.

Looking back at these pictures, I feel such gratitude. I was about to marry Mr. G, and the people I love most in this life were there to support us. My mind was clear and my heart was full. I couldn’t ask for more.

All pictures courtesy of Toby Morris Photography.
Florals courtesy of Flush Designs (much more floral design details to come!)

Other chapters in this story:
The Glitters: Once Upon a Time…