Rehearsal at Swiftwater Cellars

We arrive at Swiftwater Cellars Winery  at 

Suncadia Resort

for the wedding rehearsal, under brightening skies,

after our morning set-up for the rehearsal dinner later in the day. 

After our initial meet and greet with the wedding party, family and friends, 

 we are ushered out back to where the ceremony will take place. 

With a backdrop of the Cascade Mountains, 

the rustic pavilion stands ready for rehearsal. 

After escorting me to my seat,
the groom to be, son Dustin, awaits his future bride. 

Proud Mother of the bride.

The best man and matron of honor, 

son, Gabe and daughter, Heather. 

One by one groomsmen stand in place, 

including  Best Man, Gabe, Heather's hubby Eric in the dapper hat, 

and wonderful friends, David, Ryan (best friend since 1st grade), and A.J., in striped shirt, 

after escorting the lovely ladies.....

from left to right, the bride's sweet little sister, my daughter Jennie,

the bride's best friend (since 3rd grade), Gabe's wife Erica, and daughter Heather. 

But all eyes were on the bride to be, Jen, escorted by her Father

and carrying the ribbon bouquet made from her gifts at the bridal shower. 

Sweet smiles. 

I think we've got it! 

Let's go eat! 

We arrive back at the house....

The welcoming committee... Father of the Groom, 

best friend Ryan, and son Gabe. 

Relaxing before the meal with Jen, David, Jennie and Erica...

Looking down from the second story.

I take a moment to freshen up in a charming bedroom.

All ready to be hostess.

Head Chef, Jay.

Treasured family friends, Shawnee and Jay,
Co-hosts and most excellent cooks.

Jay is also head usher for the wedding.

The future bride and groom enjoy a relaxing moment

with very special friends.

Some of my special home-baked goodies.

Heart rocks to hold down the napkins <3

Time to fill our plates and head outside.

We had about 35-40 special guests.

Smoked pulled pork, potato salad, buttered corn bread, coleslaw and wedge of watermelon.

I didn't realize how hungry I was!

Enjoying the view.

Son-in-law, Eric and good friend, John entertain with acoustic guitars.

Enjoying the moment.

Heather and Shawnee sing along.

Sister Jennie and Brother Gabe share a selfie.

All too soon the day was over.

With warm hugs and heartfelt goodnight's

we turn in early to prepare for the big day ahead.

Thank you, Dear Friends for sharing this special time with me and my family.

I truly wish you could have been there in person,

but in my heart you were right there with me in spirit.

xoxo

Next time: The Big Day.

I hope you will join me!

xoxo