We started with my bridesmaid, Jenny. She's one of the few people at our wedding who has only known David and me as a couple, never separately, and she's also the only bridesmaid who lives in our state.
Now, I knew she was nervous, but she did a really good job (despite getting heckled from my father-in-law ... a favor she returned the next day during his speech at the wedding reception). She gave us a little gifts that all had meaning, though I can't remember all of them (Jenny, feel free to weigh in at the comments section).
1. A "beer money jar": So we wouldn't become homebodies and would still join her for a drink.
2. A mouse trap: Because she's not ready to hear the pitter-patter of little feet in our house yet.
3. Damask duct tape: Because it's cool. Seriously. DAMASK duct tape. I think there was a reason behind this, but I was too obsessed with the novelty of damask duct tape.
4. Tissues. For her, mostly, because she knew she was going to cry at the wedding.
5. A dog toy because she is the aunt to our doggie, Porter.
I think there was more, but I can't remember. Jenny, thoughts?
Next, we invited our groomsmen, Matt, to come up and speak -- but we had a speech crasher!
In the picture at the top, the guy on the left, Jon, wasn't scheduled to speak, but he was apparently overcome with emotion and just had to say a few words. We made fun of him a bit, and then really appreciated what he had to say.
Then it was Matt's turn, and while I didn't actually cry the whole weekend, he made me come pretty close by saying that marrying me was "easily the best decision David has ever made." Who wouldn't tear up at that?
If you have friends or family who aren't the best man or maid of honor, who you would like to speak at your wedding, I think this was a great way to incorporate it.
Thanks so much, Jenny, Jon, and Matt, for your speeches at the rehearsal dinner! With that, we finished up the rehearsal dinner with some dancing, a little more drinking, and mingling. It ended at 9:30 p.m., and while most of the guys stayed downstairs to go swimming again, I was exhausted. It was time to go to bed so I was well-rested for the big day!
Up Next: The morning of the wedding.
Looking back:
