"Once in a while in the middle of an ordinary life love gives us a fairytale.”
—Author Unknown
Cecile and I attended our son-in-law Kyle’s older brother Chip and Katie’s outdoor wedding at the Allied Arts Guild, a historic estate in Menlo Park, CA. It was an enchanting venue for the bride and groom, families and honored guests who were surrounded by vintage Spanish architecture, a whimsical fountain and lush seasonal gardens. It was an idyllic place to exchange ones vows.
As guests began to take their seats, a quaint white parasol was available to offer shade against the sun. A musical trio was performing in the backdrop. The long red brick walkway led to an arbor where Chip and Katie exchanged their vows. Katie’s friend Libby officiated. Everyone agreed Katie and Chip made such a handsome and loving couple. Our granddaughter Lyla and her friend Summer were the flower girls. They were too cute for words.
Kyle, the younger of the two brothers was Chip’s best man. During the dinner speech Kyle took us down memory lane recalling very vividly what it was like growing up with his older brother. The speech was skillful, hysterical and loving. Kyle spared very few details about the their sibling rivalry, emphasizing that on one hand being the youngest, he always lost at anything he and his older and stronger brother did together. On the other hand, being the baby of the family, he used it to his advantage. At the end of his speech, Kyle acknowledged very tenderly that despite earlier turbulent rivalries he knows Chip always had his back and that Katie is a perfect partner for him.
Cecile and I were happy to share the table with Kim’s cousin Lynn and Pete Metrulas and their daughter Elizabeth, and Lynne’s sister Pam and husband Dave visiting from Medina, Ohio. Also, a special thanks to Lynn for extending some tender loving care (TLC) to our granddaughter Lyla by playing with her at our table and dancing with her on the dance floor. Ditto to Lisa Chien who also danced with Lyla.
Katie and Chip, Cecile and I wish you a lifetime of happiness together and a love that grows stronger with each passing day. We were happy and honored to be a part of the festivities. Also, a heartfelt congratulations to the immediate families of the bride and groom.
