BEST FRIENDS
That's how we began and how we continue to this day. No one ever said fate moves in a straight line. We traversed an indirect path that began in 2002, in our home state of New Jersey, a path filled with twists and turns, ups and downs, a few tears but mostly a whole lotta laughs. That path lead us here and to each other. And now, 15 years later, we are together, still best friends.
November 11, 2016
The countdown officially began. We have often joked that we will stay together for 99 years. It is hard to believe one year has already passed. As they say, time flies when you're having fun! We can't wait to see what the next 98 years have in store for us. Stay tuned, we're just getting started.
Uhh, What Had Happened Was...
Some of you have asked sheepishly, some a little more boldly... rest assured, your invite did not get lost in the mail. We intended to have a reception with all of our family and friends but that was not in the cards. We considered a big blow out, an intimate get together and everything in between, in the end nothing quite fit in with our big picture goals. Trust, we truly wanted to celebrate our love with all of you - the people we care about the most - but ultimately we could not do it the way in which we wanted. After a year of trying we decided to move on... it's disappointing, it's life.
At Last...
“So, I love you because the entire universe conspired to help me find you.” Paulo Coelho
Our Story
It began with what could be called a chance meeting [or was it fate?]
Charles opened a gallery after taking an early retirement from his corporate career, around the same time Suzanne created a line of hand-crafted greeting cards as a creative outlet with no thought of selling them. A family friend told Suzanne the cards were really well done, in fact, she said, "I'm going to take you to this gallery in Montclair to see if the owner is willing to sell them."
Serengeti Plains
The first time we met was in Serengeti Plains, my "lifestyle gallery" that featured art, books, unique gift items, candles, furniture... a little bit of everything. When I saw the cards I knew immediately that they fit the gallery. Our clients were looking for unique gifts, of course they would want to compliment them with unique cards. I took them on the spot. We clicked instantly and a great friendship was born.
Could There Be More?
After nearly a decade of friendship we found ourselves in a new place, single... at the same time. We decided to explore a romantic relationship. Truth be told it wasn't without bumps, in fact, we had to take a break and regroup. After about 6 months we came back together, figured out the formula and have not looked back since.
He Proposed
With Charles now in Maryland for a couple years and all signs pointing to a lifetime of happiness, it was time to take the big step. At the breathtaking Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michael's, Maryland, Charles arranged for a special meal and custom "dessert menu" with phrases that were special to the couple as a prelude to the surprise proposal. Once she picked her mouth up off the floor, Suzanne said, "Yes!" They celebrated afterward with a sunset sail.
We "Eloped"
After months of trying to find the perfect place, the perfect date, the perfect everything [not to mention trying to save for it all] we decided to focus on what was truly important, getting married! On 11-11, the most beautiful day in November, we got married at Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, MD. Turns out we got our perfect day after all.
Now We Are Sharing Our Joy With All Of You!
Our Gallery
Although we eloped there was a photographer on hand to capture our memories. Please enjoy a few shots from our perfect fall day. While you were not there in physical form, we felt all of your love that day.
Laughter Is The Key
We spend a lot of time laughing. We both love to make other people laugh but we really love cracking each other up. We have a unique sense of humor [which can be a little twisted at times] but we get each other. It's comforting to know that during the tough times and great times there will always be someone beside you to make you laugh.
Our Honeymoon
We spent our honeymoon in Costa Rica. After a couple of days in the capital city, San Jose, we hopped a tiny plane to Manuel Antonio for the remainder of the week. We absolutely loved it. Let's sum it up this way, we are now planning to retire in Costa Rica [no, seriously.]
Happily Ever After
Based on the first year, the next 98 will be a breeze...
Our recipe for a happy marriage. While we have a ball together we know it will take work to keep it going. We will also need your love and support. Forever is a long time so we need help from those we love and who love us.
We work hard and work hard at making time for fun. Truth be told, sometimes it can be tough to keep it all in balance but we are dedicated to carving out time for us. [Date night!] Besides, it's always 5:00 somewhere.
We love music! Especially House Music! [Jersey!!] There is always music playing. In fact, I always know Suzanne is happy if she is singing while in the shower. As long as there is music playing, we will be alright.
Gift Registry
Some folks have asked, so here's the deal... you may know we have been down the road of marriage before so after blending two households we have most of the everyday essentials for which couples traditionally register. Please feel free to skip the gift, we will treasure your prayers and well wishes. If you are still interested in providing a gift please click the logo below to learn about our non-traditional take on a wedding registry.
Share Your Thoughts
Since we won't have a physical guest book we would love for you to leave a quick note. Please share your thoughts, advice, prayers or anything else you have to say. Please use the form below to send us a private note. Thank you!