Anniversary Weekend

This past weekend, Ben and I celebrated six years of being married. That seems like a lot for two people still younger than thirty, but we've been hanging out together for a long time - thirteen years to be exact!

I, of course, loved every aspect of planning our wedding, right down to the last detail. For some it's maddening, but I loved scouring the design and fashion magazines, searching websites for the perfect vendors, planning a menu that would keep people talking for years to come, and of course putting our personalized touches on everything. Despite the torrential downpour that flooded the near east side of Columbus that steamy August afternoon, just as our guests arrived (yes, that has kept people talking for years to come too!), everything was perfect - but who wouldn't say that about their own wedding. As long you're married at the end of the day, nothing else matters!

Photo: Banks Photography

So this Saturday, we celebrated with a fabulous meal at G. Michael's in German Village. We shared a bottle of Merlot and Fried Green Tomatoes, I stuffed myself silly with the Wild Pacific Salmon, Ben mmmed and ahhhed over the Grilled Pork Tenderloin, and then as if that wasn't enough, we topped of the night with a giant brownie sundae with Jeni's Ice Cream! (Did I mention that it's ok to indulge for special occasions?!)

It was late when we left the restaurant, but we decided to visit the place where we were married six years earlier anyway. Franklin Park Conservatory is a true gem of Columbus, and easily one of my favorite places to visit in the city. At least, we figured, we'd be able to walk through the gardens, the night sky lit by the illuminated Palm House. As it turns out, another couple also thought August 15th would be a great day to get married - we could hear the roaring party inside! And the front door was unlocked! Yep - for our sixth anniversary, we wedding crashed! No worries, we didn't hit up the buffet, bum a drink from the bar, or break it down on the dance floor! We just poked around the exhibits, and happened upon an empty rooftop terrace that we had all to ourselves!

In many ways, planning our wedding really fueled my passion for planning parties and entertaining – so much, in fact, that I had a bit of wedding planning withdrawal when we returned from our honeymoon. Perhaps one day I’ll share more of the details that made our wedding unique and special…

Entertaining is about celebrating and sharing an important moment in your life with friends and family. A party should highlight a moment in time, share a piece of yourself, and surround the setting with personalized touches that make your guests feel welcome.

Living Well can help make your next party special and memorable. Throw a surprise party, celebrate a milestone, amaze with a meal, or make a great first impression with a beautiful and unique invitation. Contact me to begin planning your next occasion!

Later this week, I meet with a client to plan an annual Back To School Brunch. Stay tuned for a complete summary with all of the details!