Risa & Brian - 7/27/13 - Treworgy Gardens, Gorham, Maine

First off, if anyone ever invites you to an event at the Treworgy Gardens in Gorham, you better check it out.  The grounds are absolutely beautiful and I'm not sure we could have asked for a better day for an outdoor wedding.  Sunshine, temperature in the low 80s, a light breeze made this garden party just perfect.

Set up was pretty easy.  Had everything up and running in time to walk the grounds a little and check out the gardens.  Got some nice pictures mixed in below.  I have to thank the homeowner, Linda and Nancy from CVC Catering for helping me with getting situated.  Nancy was especially accommodating, allowing me to change into my suit in her giant van versus using the port-a-potty. 

I would be remiss if I didn't also thank Vicki Card, Risa's mom, for all her help with planning the wedding.  I know she was quite instrumental with helping Risa plan and she was the first to approach me and see if I was all set and needed anything at the wedding.

I met up with Brian as he directed arriving guests to the parking lot.  He was as relaxed as any groom could be.  Him and Risa never seemed nervous, just anxious to get it going and have some fun.  The entire bridal party was very laid back, joking around and having fun as we lined up for introductions.  Risa hand-cuffed Brian and dragged him into the tent.  That definitely set the mood for the rest of the afternoon.

The timetable was tight, with everything happening from ceremony at 3 to last dance at 8, but everything flowed incredibly smooth and nothing ever seemed rushed.  It was a giant letdown to call it quits at 8, but that just means everyone was having a great time.

The crowd was the usual mixed bag of dancers and wallflowers, but having the groom and his fellow officers occupying the dance floor as much as the bride and her friends was a pleasant surprise.  Grooms are more often found sitting in the back with a drink in hand, surrounded by their male friends and avoiding the dance floor.  Brian was leading the pack, demanding compliance from his groomsman, including his commanding officer who is usually the one calling the shots.  Sarge did not let anyone down between his dancing and singing.  Other officers brought cart wheels, break dancing and, I believe, even some traditional Russian dancing.  The pictures will help paint the picture, but really can't tell the whole story of the day.

It was certainly an honor for me to be involved with this wedding.  I've known Brian for a couple years as a customer at Pizza Time and met his beautiful bride when he brought her there for dinner.  She's since become a regular (I guess the grilled chicken salad is pretty good...) with and without Brian.  I got to hang out with some great people who I usually only see when they're on duty and are grabbing a quick bite to eat between calls.  It was great to see how Westbrook's finest kick back and celebrate one of their own.  I would love to do another event with this group somewhere down the line.  Does Westbrook have a police ball?  I should look into that.   

Congratulations again to Brian and Risa.  They're an awesome couple and you can tell when you meet them that they are a perfect fit for each other.  They'll be taking their first real vacation since they've been together as they honeymoon in St. Lucia!  Have fun, guys!