Laurissa Germishuys and Christian Jelinek joke that they did things backwards, going on “honeymoon-quality vacations” before their wedding, thanks to her job as a travel agent. Though they stayed close to home for their wedding, the autumn ceremony at Lied Lodge was as enchanting as any exotic trip. Family abounded, with four sets of parents, plus step-brothers, sisters, and in-laws taking part, and Laurissa’s mother gave her a charm of all four grandparents to put in her bouquet. Bridesmaids were styled in mauve floor-length gowns, complementing the neutral palette of whites, nudes and light pinks. After their first look, Laurissa and Christian said their vows at the ceremony installation swathed in beige drapery, pampas grass and blush roses, followed by rousing cheers from all present. The grand ballroom’s tables were adorned with tall centerpieces of dried and fresh flowers atop metal stands, with low candles to add to the ambience. Laurissa and her dad impressed everyone with their father-daughter waltz (they had been practicing for months!), and guests feasted on the delectable cake, decorated with the same pattern as Laurissa’s gown, just a few of the weekend’s unforgettable memories.
