Ten days ago, my son Ian tied the knot with the love of his life, Carly. It was a beautiful outdoor ceremony at Leifer Manor in Marysville, and while the weather was a bit cooler than everyone expected, we were all thankful that we avoided the crazy windstorm that had taken place the week prior.
There were many Edmonds connections to this special day, starting with my son, the groom, of course (Edmonds-Woodway class of 2006) and his high school friends who served as groomsmen, as well as the bridesmaids, many of whom were also high school friends of both the bride and groom, plus Ian’s sister Amanda (EWHS Class of 2010).
Long-time Edmonds resident Patricia Mackey (via her custom Tippy Stockton designs) provided the jewelry for the wedding party. Moda Salon did the hair and makeup for the bride and bridesmaids. The Edmonds waterfront party room at Anthony’s Restaurant was the site of the rehearsal dinner. And Barbara Hall of Barbara’s Bridal was there to provide a last-minute fix to a stubborn zipper on a bridesmaid dress. Plus, Carly found her beautiful gown at Cynderellie’s Closet (now closed but a former favorite in Edmonds for wedding dresses).
Oh, and did I mention that Ian actually proposed to Carly during a walk on Sunset Avenue?
As a parent, watching a child get married is a major milestone for many reasons. It’s very rewarding to know that you’ve parented your child into a mature adult who is willing to make a lifelong commitment. But it’s also gratifying to think about all the adults along the way who helped us on that parenting journey: The College Place Middle School counselor who assured us that our son’s missing homework assignments were not the end of the world; our Lake Ballinger neighbors who always kept a watchful eye; the baseball coaches and athletic trainers who mentored, and nudged, and lectured with much greater impact that Mom and Dad; the aunts and uncles and cousins and friends who opened their homes and hearts to a young boy who has grown into a 27-year-old man, and now, a husband.
Here’s a toast to love, and to the loving community that wraps its arms around our children.
Until next time.
Teresa Wippel, Publisher
Congratulations to your family, Teresa.
What a lovely testament to you as a Mother, your son, and our wonderful community! Congratulations to all!
When their children find true love, parents find true joy. Sincere congratulations all around.
The next big tug on your heart could be the first grandchild! My youngest and his wife, both EWHS grads and members of this community for most of their lives, are expecting their first, a son, our grandson, in about two weeks. So happy to have them close by and will be able to enjoy grand-parenting, in Edmonds, of course.
Congrats, Kathy – that is very exciting!
Again, I have had to delete a comment for violating our limit of THREE ALL CAPS words per post. I don’t have time to go through and lower case words. I am no longer going to do it. So please, count before you post.
And YOU get to keep running a business while all this is going on! Congratulations on both!
Ahh, such a sweet tribute to Carly and Ian. It was a beautiful day shared by the best of friends. Yes, until the next one. Who will it be??? ❤️
Congratulations to you and your family and thank you for sharing… 🙂
My favorite “story” of the year….smile on my face, thanks for sharing, indeed.