Marty and Dale (my amazing parents) didn’t just have a party to celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary…they had a WEDDING! Married in their early 20’s they didn’t have the capital to splurge on an expensive dress and a big fancy venue. In 1977 they had a simple wedding and nice party with all their family and friends, but this time around they went for the sparkle and whimsy!

To say we are a Disney family would be an understatement, so when my Mom told me that the style name of the Sophia Tolli dress she bought was Cinderella, I knew where the decor planning was headed! All the stops were pulled and everything was planned with royal detail. Royal attendees were referred to as Princes and Princesses and even had that title on their place cards which also featured a crystal crown. The seating charts featured the spools of thread that the birds and mice used to help Cinderella finish her pink gown for the ball. Tables were each named for a character from Cinderella…the Bride and Groom’s table was “Cinderella and Prince Charming” of course! The unique lanterns represent the clock tower that struck midnight and go perfectly with the invitations which also featured a clock. The guest book was a vintage illustrated edition of Cinderella and the snack table featured clear slippers with…you guessed it…pumpkin seeds! The cake was a colorful display of childlike fun, from a Detroit staple, Sweetheart Bakery.

The best part though, was that this was also a celebration of my parents many friendships. My Dad’s childhood friend and hunting club buddy performed the ceremony. One of my parent’s closest friends made special wrappers affixed around Hershey bars (my Mom’s favorite candy bar) that had a wedding picture from their 1977 wedding and a current photo, to accompany each guest home. The Best Man was present to make a speech about their decades of friendship and memories. With my little brother by my side (to keep me from fainting) we also made a speech about what growing up was like…we got some good belly laughs! My Dad was even able to share a dance with his mother…the only parent left to celebrate with us.

At a pretty little venue in Shelby Township, Michigan, with their entire original wedding party (still best friends after all those years) my parents celebrated the life they started together and continue to cherish today…and we were all just so lucky to be a part of it!

Venue: Enchantment Banquet Hall in Shelby Township, Michigan
Caterer: Crank’s Catering
Event Consultants and Design: Dawn Browne Photography & Designs
Photography: Degrees North Images
Cake: Sweetheart Bakery
Flowers: Viviano Flower Shop
Wedding Gown: Sophia Tolli (Cinderella) from Bella Bridal Gallery