Has Your Halo Slipped?

I wish I could claim this photo as my own creation - sadly not. But when I noticed it in the same folder as the wedding cake picture, it made me smile all over again, just as I had when I first set eyes on it. I don't know which bit I like best; the lopsided coronet, which had difficulty sitting straight on such glossy hair, or the cosy vest and petticoat straps peeking out the side of the neckline!

This was not the fourth-slice-of-cake bridesmaid, but her younger sister, and you'll have to use your imagination to supply the colour of the dress and headdress. A deep, pinky-red, shimmering chiffon over a slightly darker taffeta, made this adorable infant look like a tiny rosebud herself.

The November day was particularly cold and windy, and I even had a thermal vest and long johns (red ones) on under my dainty gown, as did my attendants. The family had rallied round, with everybody helping to prepare the food in advance for the reception, which the groom and best man set out in the church hall while us girls were putting together the bridal bouquets. Because I'd chosen to have chrysanthemums, my cousin and her husband went rushing around on his motor bike early that morning, looking for white ones, as our combined gardens had only been able to produce flowers in autumnal shades. Bearing in mind the wedding was scheduled for 2pm, you can imagine how busy we all were! I remember making at least 100 buttonholes, of various types and colours, so's people could choose one to tone with their outfit, as they arrived at the church.

When Dad and I finally pulled up to the church entrance, somewhat early, (both he and I hated being late!) we were shooed away, as either the minister or the registrar hadn't arrived.  So I ended up having an unplanned trip all along Southsea seafront,  waving royally to curious folk who were out and about that busy Saturday. Good job the Taxi Driver was a friend of the groom, and quite happy to take us on a circular mystery tour, at no extra charge!