There is no one less qualified than me. I am a fallen Catholic. I curse. I laugh when people fall. My face gets red and my voice changes when I speak in front of a group; some call it my telephone voice.
That being said, I am also a great friend.
When she called me several months ago to pop the question, I, obviously, said yes. I was very nervous...which was evident by my less-than-confident response...but I agreed. I figured that I had several months to get my nerves in order and write something that would be meaningful for the couple and their guests.
In January, I obtained a certificate online to be an ordained minister. I contacted the town clerk to confirm that this teeny tiny little certificate that took me minimal time to earn was all I needed to make their union legal.
I began putting together the ceremony with help from Cindy, her fiance Brian, and the Internet. I sent her a first draft that, surprisingly, she loved. Minor edits were made before the ceremony and I was well on my way.
I then realized that I would be in every single photo of their wedding ceremony so I went to Rent the Runway to rent designer dress options for the ceremony. After a few shipping delays and switches due to fit, I found a dress that was classy enough to play the role of a minister, but fun enough to be a hit on the dance floor.
The day came. It was gorgeous outside, but I spent much of the afternoon in my hotel room practicing. Without a doubt, I was more nervous than the bride and the groom. While everyone knew that this was my first officiating soiree, I didn't want to mess things up. Not for Cindy.
I am happy to report that things went well! The ceremony was short, but not too short. It was sweet and heartfelt. Guests laughed and cried.
I am thankful that I was able to give the happy couple this gift. More importantly, I was able to get my friend a new last name.
Congratulations to the bride and groom!
