Celebrate with your family

We had a family wedding on Saturday. My nephew Tom Hawkins married his childhood sweetheart Emma. It was a gathering of the clans and a wonderful celebration. It reminded me of many things, but professionally, I was taken back to a time when I organised weddings for a living. There are so many details which must be dealt with to make the wedding perfect. And let me assure you, every bride wants her special day to be perfect.
Tom and Emma decided on a clear sided marquee set in a beautiful private garden. There were three long tables upon which were set the most stunning flower arrangements.
In fact, the flowers nearly stole the show. (The bride, of course, was even more radiant than the flowers). The wedding ceremony was conducted outside with views to the ocean. After the formalities, canapes were served in a tranquil courtyard: fresh oysters, salmon, Peking duck and a little zucchini donut, among other things.
It was an ideal way to mingle and get to know each other. The drinks went for some time before we were led into the marquee.
The starter was a choice of twice cooked pork belly or a seafood tasting plate. I had the pork which was cooked to perfection and the plate was warmed (I always notice if the plate has been warmed at a function). The seafood looked fresh and inviting.
Main course was beef served on a sweet potato mash with caramelised shallots. There were plenty of big farmers and footballers who appreciated the generous serving.
After sincere and heartfelt speeches, dessert was served as a continuous offering. It was then time to hit the dance floor. (I am not one who is usually strong on dancing, but this was a very special occasion so even I joined in). The party was in full swing and went on into the early hours.
Several touches I thought were superb. They served the most generous cheese platter I have ever seen and throughout the night the drink waiters were attentive without being intrusive.
In fact, the waiting staff were incredibly well trained and in good spirits, despite some of the bar staff working at an outside bar where the south west wind was blowing pretty hard. Other highlights were the espresso martini bar and a separate oyster bar. We came together for lunch the next day to relive the event and to nurse a few sore heads. It was a perfect wedding and such a precious time for the families.
As I grow older, I think how important family is. The opportunity to celebrate together should be taken every chance you can. This week, Easter will be another such time. No doubt families in our community will congregate and feast. Make sure you come into Torquay Farm Foods early to order your seafood and Easter treats. We hope to help make your family lunch or dinner just perfect too.