This was one of those weddings where the couple has been
together for thirty years before tying the knot. As more than one person said
in more than one toast, “It’s about time.”
It was also one of those weddings where I was asked to paint
the ceremony— I usually do the reception— and it only lasted fifteen minutes.
The solution to this seemingly difficult task, of course, is easy. I arrived
early enough to paint the room and backdrop before the ceremony, and was therefore
able to focus on just the couple during those crucial few minutes that they
faced each other in front of the judge. Then the chapel seating was pulled away
and the tables were pulled out, and I had a few leisurely hours to paint the
assembly at dinner.
One of the grooms’ nieces was there early as well, and she
stood at my left elbow every minute she was allowed. Other nieces can be seen
across the room, doing what teenagers do at weddings these days: texting each
other.
It was an intimate family wedding, and I hope I’ve painted it
in an intimate, family way.
