Making family memories this summer

     Aside from work life this summer, which never slows down, it’s already a busy start to the summer season for me personally.

     The fun begins this weekend with my cousin Brian’s wedding. I am serving as videographer, my second stint in this role. (No, I do not advertise my services, as I am in no way a professional.) It will be a bittersweet wedding with so many family serving in the wedding party and attending.

     Then, literally four weeks later, my one and only sister Stefanie gets married! Them old maid that I am, I will serve as her maid of honor. It will also be bittersweet to see my sister walk herself down the aisle in front of so many family and friends.

     Both family affairs are already proving to be huge events!

     Leading up to the festivities, I’ve had two bridal showers and two bachelorette parties to attend. It’s been fun planning my sister’s shower and bachelorette party. Who knew there were so many details to consider?

     One hit at my sister’s shower was the group gift the bridal party purchased: a bright pink kayak! My sister and her fiancé enjoy being on the water. My soon-to-be brother-in-law already owns a kayak, and it’s only fair that my sister have one, too.

     She was not expecting the gift at all; though she kept telling us that her fiancé was hopefully going to buy her a kayak as a wedding gift. We saved him that expense.

     When both weddings were announced last year, not knowing the exact dates the couples were thinking, I made sure to offer my input: If you get married during the week of the Great Jones County Fair, don’t expect me to attend. That may sound harsh, but it’s the truth. Fair week here in Monticello and for the Express is a big job, and my absence would be almost impossible. Plus, lets face it, while fair week is a chore, it’s worth it in the end when we publish a complete souvenir issue that all 4-H and FFA members can be proud of.

     Thankfully, both weddings are taking place before fair week…

     I consider myself a professional wedding attendee. I’ve been a member of multiple wedding parties, serving as bridesmaid, personal attendant, videographer, and maid of honor. My wedding career began in 2008 and is still on going.

     My wedding party dress collection isn’t as bad as the movie “27 Dresses.” That would just be embarrassing!

     And, honestly, it’s always a privilege to be asked to be part of a couple’s special day.

     My cousins and my sister and I grew up together. We lived in Earlville and they lived on the family farm in Greeley. We would spend time at their place every summer, swimming in the (clean) cow tank. They would come into town and swim with us at the city pool. The farm was our second home.

     My cousin Brian and my sister literally grew up together. They were both in the same grade from an early age until they graduated from high school together. We have family pictures of them posing together at memorable life events: prom, homecoming, and graduation. It’s surreal to now see them walk down the aisle and embark on another memorable life moment.