Monday, April 27, 2009
Fiona and Al's wedding was held at the D'Entrecasteux Hotel in Howden, Tasmania. What a stunning venue - romantic and elegant - classic European buildings and stylish designs in every room. I stayed at the hotel for the evening and the heated indoor swimming pool overlooking the water was a real treat for me the next morning!

 I have been friends with Fiona for a few years and we met Alan when Roger and I visited Tasmania last year. I was delighted when they asked me to be their celebrant. We had the rehearsal in the hotel gardens on Friday and I met Fiona's family who are all delightful.

On the wedding day they had a classical trio (friends) who played the harp, cello and violin as Fiona walked in with her father. We had gathered inside as it had begun to rain lightly. Alan and Fiona had created a heartfelt and personal ceremony that included Al's Lebanese family's two Greek Orthodox priests offering a traditional blessing in Arabic. Highlights were many: Seeing Al and Fiona's faces as they looked out to see 150 family and friends beaming smiles, Al's mother chanting a Lebanese blessing as they kissed and all the women in their family joining in the response, Fiona's brother shared a reading and asked everyone to think of a moment of fun and happiness they had shared with Al and Fi. He then invited the guests to send Al and Fi that same joy to them now... the change in the room was electrifying as people reflected on that moment. Their exchange of vows and the love radiating between them was a joy to behold. Other highlights were their friends, during the speeches, declaring their love and respect for Fiona and Alan, the chocolate wedding cake (yummy!), Al's Lebanese family leading some awesome dancing - men and women belly dancing is an inspiring sight to behold... the moments were endless and truly memorable... a great wedding celebration for all the best reasons. Congratulations Al and Fi!