The main house is an absolute stunner, with a huge sweeping staircase, enormous kitchen, living and family rooms, as well as nearly 10 bed and bathrooms. Ann, Mia, Heather and I walked into the house early to begin setting things up and we all burst out laughing because the place was so huge and so perfect for a fun wedding weekend!
The best part was the "guest cottage" at the top of the driveway (which is bigger than my townhouse, of course!), which is where we hosted Amalia's shower. The cottage oozed charm, with slate floors, rustic wood ceiling and a wood-burning fireplace. The cottage actually used to be the property's stables, so the room was divided by stall doors. Very charming!
One of Ann's best ideas was to arrange for a private chef to cook our lunch. Brilliant! Not only was the food superb, but it allowed the bridesmaids to mix and mingle without the worry of prepping, cooking or cleaning!
The menu was outstanding - and full of the yummy treats that Amalia loves, namely bacon!
Invited guests included Sarah T., Stephanie, Julie, Kate, Tiffani, Jody, Kathy and Pam; her sister, Mia Montpas; and bridesmaids Ann Christian, Heather Anfang and me.
No bridal party would be complete without the requisite "toilet paper" wedding gown. Fortunately, Amalia embraced the whole experience - including stripping down to her "wedding night suit"! - and took the prize for loveliest bride!
We also played a game in which Amalia had to answer questions about Gordon and their relationship and see if her answers tracked those provided earlier by Gordon. You can see the angst and joy! Fortunately, she prevailed on just about every question!
Our wedding weekend ended with a quiet, at-home Mexican dinner and margarita party back at the main house. It was such a fun weekend and I think Ama was tickled pink with everything!