The Reception

Following a wonderful ceremony in the garden, the guests at my nephew's wedding entered Deer Park Manor for a Swing Dance lesson and the bride and groom retreated to some unknown private corner for a few moments of solitude and bliss. The bride and bridal party also took this time to change their shoes from the delicate silver heels they'd worn for the wedding to their dancing shoes!

This reception was all about family, friends, and dance, and Bill and Jennifer wanted everyone to have the opportunity to truly enjoy the swing band - The Stardusters.

When the lesson was over, the entire bridal party paraded on to the dance floor and found their seats at select tables. At last, the married couple would appear - and, of course they did it in their distinctly personal and humorous style - my nephew carried his bride in over his shoulder - to the delight and laughter of us all.

After taking a bow, the two of them had their first dance as a married couple to The Passion Song.

Their dance was a delight to watch as the two of them fit perfectly together in rhythm and step - their happiness and comfort with one another apparent to one and all.

Then the father of the bride took his daughter's hand, and my nephew took his mother's and a waltz was danced to Moon River.

With traditions satisfied, the floor now filled with eager members of the bridal party who really did "swing" - pent up energy and enthusiasm was poured in to their dance and those of us on the sidelines simply smiled. As dances slowed and different partners were selected, the non-dancers mingled with one another - soaking up all of the positive energy in the room.