I woke up around 6 a.m. the morning of the wedding. Wait. I GOT UP around 6 a.m. the morning of the wedding. It was pretty much a sleepless night, actually–very rare for me, in fact. (I’m hardly ever so nervous before big events that I can’t sleep.) Unfortunately, my lack of sleep that night was due to not being able to swallow and breathe properly. My throat was incredibly sore and scratchy from being sick and coughing all week, and I couldn’t even breathe without stirring up a cough. Not wanting to wake the girls in the room around me, I concentrated very hard on extremely shallow breathing–and thus never really fell asleep.

By six in the morning, I’d had enough of trying. After all, I had my vows to write in the books I’d made, and I wanted to be ready and relaxed before Reena and Rachel showed up for hair and makeup. Surprisingly enough, I didn’t feel that tired. I guess that means I was excited to start the day!

Rachel and Reena arrived exactly at 7 a.m., the time we’d scheduled the night before. None of the bridesmaids were up yet–I had been downstairs finishing up my vow-writing, and hadn’t gone upstairs to check on them! But I roused them all and soon they were down in the “getting ready chair” we’d set up. I was a little nervous that it wouldn’t be enough time for all of us to get ready, but wow–these girls are awesome. I can’t believe how quickly they moved everyone through hair and makeup!

They even spent time beautifying my mom.

And then it was my turn.

Final touches.

Then, Kathleen (part of our amazing husband-and-wife videographer duo Minimo Productions), and Niki called the bridal party outside to take a few photos. Here are the girls wearing the button downs I got them to wear while getting ready. Love these girls!

Meanwhile, the boys were getting ready in the hotel room.

Scott helping Erick get ready.

Note: These are NOT Erick’s socks. :)

And, we’re ready to go.

Next up: Details.