Words by Maureen Young
“But I do know that I love you
And I know that if you love me too
What a wonderful world this would be”
~ Wonderful World, Sam Cooke
Ceremony done? Good, it’s waaaay too hot to be in a shirt! At least that was the view Jesse’s friends Eric and Owen took as they stripped off to have a photo taken with the newlyweds and had some of the bystanders going ‘Ooooh.’ We made the most of the beautiful (albeit hot!) weather and took bridal portraits on the beach before having a quick lunch and continuing on with photos around the resort prior to the reception. Big thanks to Colin & Albert for keeping us well hydrated throughout!
Rina asked the bridal party to pull a goofy face & all the groomsmen paid tribute to Jesse. They pulled a Jesse face; tight eyes and a big, teeth showing grin.
Thunderstorms meant the planned pool-side reception was moved indoors but there was no lack of lit ambiance as guests arrived down a candlelit path. Colin and Helen MC’d the reception, with Colin introducing the Groomsmen in a hockey style reference before introducing the main event…
“It’s time for the main event of the evening. This match-up will consist of the one round lasting the rest of their lives. In the blue corner, standing at 50 pounds, hailing from Edmonton, AB. Please give a warm hockey welcome to Jesse “Game Over” Li.”
Each member of the bridal party gave a speech; recounting their personal memories of the individuals and a memory of them as a couple. Anita’s sister Cindy recounted how the couple first met at her Grade 12 grad, where Jesse’s cousin was also graduating. Sat at the same table, Anita thought Jesse was a jerk for talking to everyone at the table but her. Method in his madness, Jesse was simply too tongue-tied to talk to the best looking girl at the table but fortunately fessed up to his cousin who, with Cindy’s help, got Jesse and Anita talking via MSN.
During the couple’s speech, a very emotional Jesse broke down in tears. The guys were impressed seeing their friend overcome by emotion and unfortunately for Jesse, more than just our cameras caught the moment for prosperity’s sake.
After their emotional speech, Anita + Jesse took to the dance floor and got the party going. A cigar maker showed everyone not getting their groove on how to hand roll cigars and all the guests had a Dominican cigar as a wedding favour.
Having a meteorologist as an MC meant we were well informed that the night’s fore-casted thundershowers were well underway. That didn’t stop Anita + Jesse from absolutely rocking a rain soaked shot sheltered by a very fashionable looking garbage bag! Way to rock it guys!!!
Lotsa Love,
~Rina + Anthony