When I got the invitation in the mail, I was so excited.
A wedding in Florida? For somebody I love who helped changed my life? YES, PLEASE!
T and I took off work on Friday and left later than he would have preferred, but still early enough that we would get there relatively early. We arrived with time to spare and were able to drive a little farther to visit Papa Rocco's, a pizza place T fell in love last year on our last beach vacation. Then we added to the deliciousness by grabbing dessert at Rita's—I got a piña colada Gelati with vanilla custard and T decided on mango.
One of the treats of this vacation was the friends we bunked with chose the place, and when we got to the house we were happy. Great space, good amenities, and a short enough drive to the wedding venue. We relaxed for the rest of Friday night, so that the next morning we'd be rested for some beach time!
We didn't end up staying long, but it was long enough that I felt relaxed. Next year, Florida! We're coming back for you!
Once we got back to the house, we showered and got all dolled up. We drove to Palafox Wharf. The wedding was beautiful. The bride, the venue—not to mention their baby boy is the most adorable baby ever. He came down the aisle in a wagon pulled by the best man and matron of honor. And as soon as my stunning friend started down the aisle, I started crying. Forever gorgeous, hair pinned up with a long, flowy veil, and the hugest grin. The vows were perfect, and afterward we went right inside to enjoy some amazing crab cake appetizers and infused strawberry water. Then came oysters, crab, a mash potato bar! By the end of the night I was a good mix of miserable and happy from all the tasty food.
Then came the dancing. I got to hear Footloose, which was the song I requested, and some other good favorites like: I Want It That Way, Jump Around, Friends in Low Places, Don't Stop Believing, and Unchained Melody. The atmosphere was perfect in every single way. From the exposed brick on the building, the dock at sunset filled with boats, the sea food and cupcakes—I mean, c'mon, it really was the wedding of the century, not to mention the minor league baseball game providing an unexpected fireworks show!
At the end of the night we gathered on the patio to see the couple off with gold, sparkly, jingly wands. So fun!
It really was a magical evening and I'm so happy for the happy couple. Just being able to see them together, the smiles on their faces, it was the ultimate sweetest memory and I feel so blessed that T and I could be there to share in the celebration.
