August 22, 2009: Post #2

This was one of those rare and unwanted weeks on my calendar with white space all weekend--no planned weddings. In this business there is always the chance of an elopement wedding at the last minute. I've had a few of those and I love them, but we'll talk about that later. I got a call on Thursday from a bride needing me to step in and officiate her wedding two days later. We thought this wedding would be at one of my favorite Gallatin venues, The Pick Inn, but it ended up at the bride's home. The groom, his friends and his groomsmen were all musicians. My arrival was met with screeching electric guitar chords. It sounded like I was arriving at an Aerosmith concert. I knew right off that this was going to be a laid back, casual wedding. The groom was wearing a very hip, ready-for-the-stage outfit--designer jeans, embroidered shirt, cool hair--the works. The bride wore a dress that I told her reminded me of that famous Marylin Monroe dress that she wore over the street grating, except this dress had a train. I wore my ministerial robe and stole.

Everyone went outside and took their place. Everyone except the small kids who continued their impromptu game of soccer. One of the older kids went zooming in front of me, the groom and the groomsmen right before the bride's maids came out. The bride processed out and all was well. The kids kept playing in the yard all around the ceremony. If only I could have held my BlackBerry and videotaped this next part. Right as I was taking the rings from the best man, a soccer ball sailed across the yard and bounced off my left shoulder while I was in mid sentence. Fortunately I have become very laid back about this sort of thing. I made a little joke of it and kept on going. If it didn't bother the bride it shouldn't bother me!

I have a word of advice for brides who are contemplating an outdoor wedding where multiple small kids will be present, especially if it is going to be in your own home or any home where the kids feel very comfortable. Make sure they know what a wedding is and that they need to take a break from playing and try to be still and quiet for a few minutes...OR be prepared for soccer ball to the head during your ceremony. Just a thought.