It was getting late as I made my way towards the reception. On arrival I spotted my parents engaged in conversation with some of the guests. I decided I would have a lemon, lime and bitters and helped myself to the sumptuous hors d’oeuvres being passed around.

The dining area consisted of tables and chairs covered in white damask, with rose petals and candelabras for the centrepiece. Blue and pink helium balloons danced on the ceiling, with their silver ribbons dangling in mid-air. A disc jockey played both contemporary music and songs from a by-gone era.

After the pre-dinner drinks on the balcony, everyone made their way into the reception area for the entree, which comprised a choice of either pasta or beef portions. Roast chicken or steak with vegetables was the main course, while dessert came in the form of miniature caramel mud cakes covered in white icing.

It was time for the speeches and Alan spoke candidly about Louise needing Jeremy to do the cooking for her, which caused some amusement among the guests. After he had finished his speech that reflected his love and best wishes for the happy couple, I shared the following poem I wrote.

Friends and lovers for life

As Jeremy takes his brand new wife

Gazing into each other’s eyes

They slowly begin to realise

The day that had seemed so far away

Has arrived in all its fine array.

Louise pristine in her gown

Is really quite well renowned

For working towards her goal

By putting in her heart and soul

To build a better and brighter future

With Jeremy as her loving suitor.

May you share many precious moments together

And find comfort from life’s stormy weather

Never forget to say, “I love you!”

Always remember to see things through

Live it up on South Molle Island

And come back home happy and smilin’.

My poem was well received and both Alan and I were given a heartfelt round of applause.

Next on the scene for speeches were Jeremy’s parents George and Noela. They worked as a team in the portrayal of Jeremy and his cousins as children, dressing up in Ninja Turtles outfits and carrying their swords. George commented on the fact that Jeremy needed to stop borrowing his 4-wheel drive and get his own. They reminisced over the time that Louise and Jeremy lived with them for 18 months and how there was a dramatic decrease in the utility bills after they had moved out.

Noela also mentioned Louise’s initial introduction to their whole extended family. I remember the day she was to go to that function, and how her knees felt like jelly and her heart was beating overtime.

The guests by this time were quite lively with the outpouring of stories, and then the best man gave his rendition, after which he quickly had a swig of beer to calm his nerves.

When the speeches were all over, Jeremy and Louise stole the limelight once more by dancing the bridal waltz followed by their parents. The floor was eventually packed with guests as they danced the night away.

Finally the night came to a close and some of the guests stayed over in the resort accommodation and had a breakfast buffet the following morning. My family and I enjoyed the buffet menu which included cereal, fruit, yoghurt, fried mushrooms, poached eggs, baked beans and bacon.

It was great catching up with my extended family whom I very rarely ever see, except on special occasions. Everyone’s lives seem to be so hectic, and nobody seems to have much time for each other any more. The wedding definitely united a lot of people and it brought out the best in them.

I’m so grateful for having had this wonderful experience and seeing Louise and Jeremy refreshed and relaxed after their honeymoon.