e + m.

Three words: what a weekend. We had an amazing time in Denver hanging out with old friends, making new friends, and celebrating the love of Malia and Elliot. The weekend was everything that we had anticipated and more. It went something like this…

We touched down in Denver around 5:30 Friday evening. Upon arrival Elliot and his brother, Hunter, picked us up in the church van (a.k.a. the “Party Bus”) and after a minor mishap (the bus dying on us and having to get jumped off by a tow truck) we headed to the hotel to check in. Elliot’s parents were so gracious to book us a suite in downtown Denver for the entire weekend. It was perfect for the five of us. That is, Martin, Doug, Wes, John, and myself. I must say, spending time and being in close quarters with this gang all weekend was so much fun. I would not have had it any other way. Anyway, after changing clothes we jumped back on the bus and headed to Malia’s house to meet the bridal party. After saying our hellos we went to this amazing sushi restaurant called Sushi Sasa to eat and get to know the wedding party and friends.

 After dinner, we went to Wicked Garden for an amusing night of dancing—by amusing I mean four boys from the south being thrown into the “club” scene. You get the drift… According to Malia, the night before was her night to do what she wanted, so they all went line dancing. Friday night was Elliot’s night to make the call on the plans, so club dancing it was. For those of you who know Elliot, you are probably not be surprised by his choice of entertainment. We were all pretty exhausted from our travels so called it a somewhat early night.

On Saturday I got to spend the morning and afternoon with my beautiful and amazing girlfriend, Hilary-Jane. I truly cherished my time with her. It was so short, but so sweet. We had breakfast together at the Hotel Monaco. This is such a neat, eclectic hotel in Denver and the food was out of this world! I literally felt like we were in a scene at Breakfast at Tiffany’s!

 

 

 

 

After breakfast we headed to Washington Park (a.k.a. “Wash Park” to the locals) near HJ’s house. Elliot had taken us there on our trip in April of ’10 so it was nice to revisit. This time, however, the flowers were in full bloom. Breathtaking!

 

We put down a blanket and chatted in the sun. Our conversations are always great—HJ is such a smart, wise, encouraging woman. We then ventured to her adorable new house for some lemonade and before we knew it, it was time to take me back to the hotel. SAD. I can’t wait for another trip with her!

That evening Elliot and Malia hosted their beautiful rehearsal dinner. It was held at Forrest Room 5 in Downtown Denver. Such a neat restaurant/bar. The food was delicious and the love of families and friends was radiating.

After speeches and sweet words from Elliot and Malia, we headed into a room in the back for dessert where we were serenaded by their friend, Casey. He was awesome! It was such a special evening and we were honored to be a part of it.

The bride and groom.

On Sunday we had free reign in the morning to do whatever our hearts desired. I went for a walk around town with Martin and Doug. We had a great time sightseeing and enjoying the great weather. Elliot showed up to the hotel in a Dodge Viper and let all the boys take a spin around the block. Snazzy. We ate some barbeque for lunch and by 12:30 there were 7 men in our hotel suite getting ready for the wedding. SEVEN! By the time they left, I had to go down to the front desk to ask for towels. Try explaining that one…

John getting ready, sportin' the suspenders Elliot gave all the groomsmen.

The ceremony was so beautiful and intimate—a perfect picture of Christ's love. Unfortunately, I didn't snap any pictures during, but I got a few afterwards outside the church. 

Love this man.

The reception followed at the historic Mile High Station. The rustic, industrial interior was right up my alley. 

Where the cocktail hour was.

All tables were named after mountains and cities in Colorado.

After everyone was seated, we were introduced to the entire wedding party, followed by the new Mr. and Mrs. Elliot Sawyer! They proceeded onto the dance floor where they had their first dance to a beautiful song sung a cappella by two friends. 

After the first dance, Hunter and Mr. Sawyer gave toasts, followed by Malia's sister and father.  Before Malia and Mr. Jensen stepped onto the dance floor he said one thing that tugged at my heart strings. It went something like this: "I didn't give Malia away today. I gave her away to our Lord and Savior when she first entered this world..." Such a true, genuine, faithful statement. I think that everyone at the reception regained perspective on what this day is all about right then and there.

For the next three or so hours we danced the night away. Everything from line dances to double dutch. We had SO.MUCH.FUN. None of us wanted the reception to end. 

Our table (the boys with a few of the bridesmaids).

annnnnnd then, the camera died. We sent Elliot and Malia off and this week they are celebrating in Costa Rica (I'm quite jealous). Overall, it was a fabulous and fun weekend. I am in love with the city of Denver and cannot wait to go back. Thank you, E & M for such an incredible visit!