* Philippa, Quality Analyst/Writer & Bryce, Cavalry Scout/Student * Photographer: Robert Meyer * Soundtrack for listening: “John and Savannah (Live Quartet)” by Deborah Lurie *
One sentence sum up of the wedding vibe: A beautiful service and a wonderfully relaxed afternoon reception, full of good food and laughter!
The Info—Photography: Robert Meyer / Ceremony: The Germanic American Institute / Reception: Scusi / Cupcakes: Sweets Bakeshop / Philippa’s Dress: Dessy, from Nordstrom’s / Philippa’s Engagement Ring: Designed by Bryce working with Security Jewelers / Philippa and Bryce’s Wedding Rings: R.F. Moeller / Groomsmen’s Ties: Men’s Warehouse
Other cool stuff we should know about: Well, one of the coolest things (bar none) was the butter knife arch! Normally a military wedding would have a saber arch, but with so few people attending, there were no other military people with sabers. So my parents got vintage butter knives and decorated them with peace cranes—it was beautiful, and touching, and also a very hopeful and meaningful twist on the tradition.
One thing we were determined to have was a wedding service that was beautiful and well done. My godfather did the service for us, and it was wonderful! We chose fairly traditional Unitarian language that touched on the divine, but focused more on our devotion to each other through the trials of life, our strength as a married couple, and our responsibilities to our community. We ended up having very few people at the ceremony and reception and will be throwing a housewarming/reception party this winter!
The wedding looks so much more coordinated than it really was—the guys all wore their own suits, with matching ties, and the women picked out knee-length, navy blue dresses. The bridal party all did their own hair and makeup, and my Maid of Honor did mine. We were blessed with remarkably talented, helpful friends and family: my mother made my sash and veil, and also did the flowers, with some help from her brother and sisters. People set up the chairs and put out the program scrolls (my one DIY project). The music was on a boom box at the ceremony and from an iPod at the reception venue.
Favorite thing about the wedding: How comfortable it was! I remember looking out at people during the reception, and everyone was talking and laughing, passing platters of food, having a good time. We aren’t very good at staying up late or being the center of attention, so a low-key, midday lunch reception was just our style!
