My One and Only

Thirteen years ago today I married my handsome prince. Life has taken us through many twists and turns, but all of them have been fun and exciting with him by my side. I can truly say I married my best friend, and I look forward to each new day and adventure.

We lived in Nashville at the time (Mr. Sugarplum was a professional musician 'before.' Have I ever mentioned that?), and were married in a gorgeous church and had the reception at Union Station Hotel, a converted train station.

What made it even more special, was I was able to wear my grandmother's wedding dress! It is the most gorgeous thing I've ever seen. It was hand-made by Neiman Marcus for her, using pure silk satin (most dresses now are made of polyester satin). *quiver* It even has her name embroidered in blue thread on the lining.

My grandmother, however, was 92-pounds and 5-feet-tall when she married. I'm, well, not! But fortunately she wore the dress with three petticoats and a hoop, but with only one petticoat the length was perfect for me. She also wore matching full length gloves, so we were able to use that fabric to add additional gussets on the bodice. Buttoning it and breathing were kind of important.

The only style change I made was to remove the illusion across the chest, as it hadn't weathered very well in the 50 years since she'd worn it. This picture is a great indication of how supple the fabric is...literally like buttah!

The veil of Belgium lace has been in our family since my great-grandmother wore it in 1921. I affixed it to a headband covered with leftover satin from the gloves, and was the 19th bride to wear it. Mr. Sugarplum wore an old-fashioned style 4-button tuxedo to coordinate with the timeless look of my dress. Don't we look like we could be a couple in 1940?

Along with the fabulousness of the dress, came a lot of weight. In both heaviness of the dress, and responsibility not to dump wine mess it up! So I chose a second, light-weight and inexpensive dress for the reception. I don't think the wedding dress even touched the floor before my grandmother had it back in the box!

 

I felt like a true princess in my grandmother's wedding dress, but was able to relax and breathe enjoy the party in the new dress. And it was fun to see the reaction of guests when they saw I'd changed.

We had so much fun eating, drinking and dancing for hours. I realize now, that one of the most special moments of the night was dancing with my grandfather. I was his "Sugarplum," and he always made sure I knew it!

 

xoxo poppoo

We've lived in four homes in two states, gone through career changes, had two kids and traveled the world....it's been an adventure, and I've loved every second! I love you, my sweet, my groom, my one and only. Happy Anniversary.

*Sorry for the quality of the photos, I had to scan them.