We had a wedding in Chicago this weekend.
It was spectacular. It was emotional and I will never forget it. It was at the University Club of Chicago where we were members when we lived there. What a setting! The person that coordinated the wedding was indispensable. Could not have pulled it off without her. The UClub was its usual unflappable self. The staff there is top-notch.
Everything was perfect. We had a great champagne toast. I had purchased some 2000 vintage Krug champagne and cellared it all these years for both of my daughter’s weddings. You have to be prepared! The photo below was the first one. They were married during Covid.
I don’t know if you have married a son or daughter off, but it’s not only emotional but a lot of fun. Someday when you do, you will know the hidden meaning I am trying to get across but words cannot describe it. It was heartwarming to see all the friends and family that were able to attend. I have known all of these guys since fifth grade, and one since the first day of kindergarten.
The toasts were wonderful and meaningful. My new son-in-law has a great family and his brother did him no favors in his toast. My daughter roasted her sister in her toast, but was sweet in the end.
The fact that both my daughters married great people from really fantastic families makes me feel tremendously lucky. My son-in-law and future son-in-law went to the Cubs game Wednesday. Despite the Cubs’ loss to the Mets, we had a great time. My future son-in-law might have secretly enjoyed it since he is a Sox fan.
The ceremony was in a packed Catholic church and the priest was my son-in-law’s cousin. The fact that the priest was related and had a special relationship with the family warmed my heart. Weddings are so meaningful when they are in a house of worship. It felt great to be in a church again.
In my speech, I referenced a couple of things I will reprint here. The first came from my friend Ben when I was diagnosed with a terminal illness that I didn’t have.
“Happiness, not in another place but this place...not for another hour, but this hour.”-Walt Whitman.
and…from my favorite children’s book that I can’t wait to read to all my grandchildren.
Piglet asked Winnie the Pooh, “Pooh, how do you spell love?” Pooh says, “You don’t spell love. You feel it.”
They are off with the rest of their lives in front of them. Pedal to the metal.
With all the spite and hate in the world, it was refreshing to celebrate true love.
This was a pleasure to read. You gave me an idea, with my one and only being 5, I need to go find some bottles to stash. Thanks for sharing this.
Beautiful couple. Congratulations!