Ron + Beth Say "I Do"
This weekend was magical. My entire family came together in Rochester, Minnesota to celebrate the marriage of my brother and [now] sister-in-law and I am over the moon with happiness. Ron is the only person in this world who understands what it was like to grow up the way that we did - and it created an everlasting bond between us. Ron was my companion and best friend as we went back and forth between my parents houses and experienced the blending of our different families. I am so grateful that I had him by my side through it all; I can't imagine what it would have been like if I had to do it alone. If I had to sum up the one thing I have realized from this past weekend, it's that the relationships we have with our siblings are the most powerful, meaningful, and special kinds of relationships in the world.
My heart was so full as I watched him be the co-star of his wedding. He and Beth were radiating love and happiness - so much that it was contagious! Their wedding was as beautiful as their relationship, and I'm so happy I got to be there for him on his big day.
Rehearsal Dinner at Beth's Parents' House
We flew in to Minneapolis early Saturday morning and drove to Rochester after making a quick lunch stop at the Mall of America (it's as massive as they say!) That evening, we had the rehearsal dinner at Beth's parents' house where I got to catch up with my dad, pet chickens in their backyard, and meet more of Beth's family. It was so casual and the perfect start to the wedding weekend! Not only did Uncle Ben fly in all the way from Malaysia, some of my mom's closest friends also flew in to attend. It was so special!
Wedding Ceremony at Mercy Hill Church
The wedding ceremony was gorgeous. Bright colored flowers lined the aisle and decorated the stage, and I had to hold back tears when I saw my mom walking Ron down the aisle. Seeing Ron stand on stage and watch Beth walk down the aisle was probably one of the proudest sister moments I've ever had. My Gong Gong was the officiant of the ceremony and did an amazing job. Ron and Beth seemed like they were in their own world, and they kept looking like they were going to kiss before they were officially allowed to!
Reception at Rochester Golf & Country Club
After the ceremony, Sam, Derek and I drove over to the country club for the reception. It was so green and perfect for a wedding reception! My mom, sister and I all made a speech after dinner. We've all been preparing for a few weeks now, and I lost it during my mom's speech, which was so beautiful and touching. My favorite part was when she said that "as a mom, my heart is at peace knowing that my son found the perfect person for him" and it really spoke to the kind of love that my mom has for her children. My sister and I shared some of our favorite memories with Ronnie growing up in our speeches, like how he came to all of my dance recitals and introduced me to Star Trek :-) All of the speeches were so sincere and heartfelt. The night ended with dancing and Derek tearing up the dance floor (per usual!) Afterwards, Derek, Sam and I did a very late night drive back to Minneapolis and stayed together in a hotel to catch our early morning flight back home today. To say that Derek and Sam are besties is an understatement; they love to gang up on me and tease me! So many memories were made this weekend that I know will last a lifetime. I am so beyond thrilled for my big brother! Tonight him and Beth head out to Niagara Falls, and then off on a Northeastern cruise to Canada out of New York. I am so happy for them and am excited to see their relationship and love for each other continue to grow! Xoxo
