Randy Pausch
I don’t know if many of you know about Randy Pausch. He is the professor from Carnegie Mellon who was diagnosed with cancer at 47. He gave a “Last Lecture” intended for his 3 children but was given in front of his collegues at the university. His enthusiasm for life was palpable. He talked about his childhood dreams and those that he realized and those he did not.
It was deeply moving. One thing that he said I really loved ~ he said don’t be afraid to be “earnest”. In today’s world we often feel like we need to be sophisticated and somewhat jaded and cynical. I love that he recognizes that being earnest is a good thing not something to be ashamed of.
I remember as a teenager, my sister saying that I was “without guile”. I thought that meant that I was naive but I realize it is actually a compliment. Being “nerdy” is not something to be ashamed of but something to be proud of. I wish for Randy’s family found memories of a special husband and father. He contributed to this world and was an example to us all of living a life filled with enthusiasm and joy. Is there anything else more important than that? I don’t think so.
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First Dance
The First Dance often strikes fear into the hearts of both brides and grooms. First of all, many couples are not comfortable being the center of attention. Secondly, many have never had any instruction in “ballroom” dancing. I know, I know what you are thinking ~ that is so “old fashioned”. Yes, you may be right but this is a very special occasion and it is appropriate for the bride & groom to get out on that dance floor and kick butt!
There are many dance studios who will help the bride & groom choreograph their first dance. You provide the song and they provide the moves. There is nothing worse than seeing a groom doing the two step shuffle. A few dance lessons to give you confidence to get out on the dance floor, when all eyes are on you.
I personally long for the dance of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. When “Top Hat and Tails” was the way to go. It always seemed so sophisticated to me. Today we live in such an informal culture but there is nothing wrong with making that first dance as husband and wife one that you and your guests will remember. We have so few important occasions in our lives and a wedding is one such occasion. Why not make it fun for you and your guests by learning a few new steps and “Putting on the Ritz”?
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Creating Ambiance
Brides often see pictures in wedding magazines which show rooms “glowing” with candlelight, creating a romantic look. Actually, this look is not created with just candles. It is the lighting that gives that special glow. Ballrooms take on a magical ambiance when lighting is washed up on the walls and pin lighting is over each table highlighting the lovely floral arrangements.
Lighting is something that has long been used for theatrical productions and now that weddings have taken on a more dramatic look, lighting has become even more important. Some new ballrooms already have the lighting capability built into the room.
Deciding on what colors to use is to be considered carefully. In my experience, the soft amber hues add a great touch to just about any space but depending on your color theme and the colors already in the room, your lighting expert can help you create just the look you want.
This picture is from one of my very special weddings where we enhanced an already glorious space with many details such as custom linens, chairs chargers, place settings and fabulous flowers all enhanced further by the use of custom lighting.
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Happy Fourth of July!
I love the Fourth of July! It reminds me of when I was a kid and we would go to park in downtown Hartford, Connecticut to see the fireworks. We would bring a big blanket, spread it out and wait for it to get dark. Of course we always brought food and soda (most importantly bug spray).
The Fourth reminds me of simpler times, simple pleasures and time with my family. I wish all of you a safe and happy Fourth of July. We are fortunate to live in a country that allows us freedoms that our forefathers fought for and won.
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What Makes me Happy
One of the things I love most about my job is the opportunity to work with couples from different cultures. Here in the Triangle we have so many colleges and universities that attract people from all over the world.
As a result, I feel like I have gotten an education in international travel without leaving the home! My greatest joy is helping the bride & groom seamlessly integrate each other’s wedding rituals into their wedding. Its also a great lesson for them in how to compromise and build a wedding that represents both of their culture. After all, marriage is about compromise and commitment to the relationship. What a good way to start out and it sets the stage for decisions that will come later especially when the couple have children.
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