My Sister’s Wedding, Part 2

When I got married, I remember thinking it was the longest day ever. You can’t sleep, you have a million things to do, your nerves are jangling like a set of keys. The only true sense of calm came at the salon before the ceremony. You literally can do nothing but sit back and try to chill out while your eyelashes are being extended and your hair is getting fried with a 500-degree wand.

Today’s wedding recap is all about that calm oasis before my sister, Chelsea’s, wedding — tears and all. The big reveal — the wedding gown and the bridal party’s outfits — will be coming later this week.

Chelsea getting her gorgeous on.
Chelsea getting her gorgeous on.

Chelsea’s dress has a classic vintage vibe, and she wanted the super-stylized hair to match. She opted for an updo that echoed those fabulous Barbie dolls from the 1950s and 60s. (Those Barbies were just the ultimate — I wish they still made them!)

My sister's hair inspiration.
My sister’s hair inspiration.

My sister was extremely gracious when it came to the bridesmaids’ sartorial freedom. She let us pick our own looks — updo or beach waves; red nails or blue; red lips or Chapstick. As long as we felt comfortable, she gave us her blessing.

I opted for the beach curls route — which in Atlanta, translates roughly to “little orphan Annie.”

Plaid Shirt: Mossimo (Target) | Jeans: Madewell | Sandals: L'Agence (Consignment)
Plaid Shirt: Mossimo (Target) | Jeans: Madewell | Sandals: L’Agence (Consignment)

Not to worry — the humidity drooped the hair in no time, so my hair looked completely normal by showtime.

Bridesmaid and bestie Desiree not only got her hair done -- she decided to get a haircut. Brave girl!
Bridesmaid and bestie Desiree not only got her hair done — she decided to get a haircut. Brave girl!
The groom's sisters Ashley and Alex, opted for classic looks for the wedding.
The groom’s sisters Ashley and Alex, opted for classic looks for the wedding.
My mom started getting emotional.
My mom started getting emotional.

During the rehearsal dinner, Chelsea gifted all the bridesmaids with a personalized goblet so they could imbibe on their beverage of choice at the salon.

Naturally, the goblets referenced the Golden Girls, my sister’s favorite TV program. (PS: I absolutely loved this idea. If I could go back, I’d have gifted a Lost coffee mug. Dharma cappuccinos for everyone!)

An amazing bridesmaid gift.
An amazing bridesmaid gift.

To go with the vintage vibe, Chelsea selected a cat-eye for her wedding make-up. (Think Elizabeth Taylor crossed with Audrey Hepburn. Swoon!)

Everything you need to create a bride is here in this box.
Everything you need to create a bride is here in this box.

But a little-known fact about my sister: she blinks uncontrollably whenever you get as much as an eye pencil near her. I can attest to her squeamishness first-hand — I spent hours and hours trying to give her Kevyn Aucoin-esque makeovers during our road trips to the Carolinas, and she’d blink so much, she’d be covered in mascara before we crossed the state border into Georgia.

fakelashes
My sister getting a full set of false lashes.

Thankfully, she was remarkably more composed 20 years later.

Until the water works started.

I love the sweetness in this photo.
I love the sweetness in this photo.

Later this week, I’ll finally cover the ceremony. Stay tuned!

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