Hooper Wedding (aka Party in Miami)

About 10 days ago I had the honor of traveling to Miami to celebrate the marriage of two of my very favorite vacationing buddies, Andy and Emily Hooper.

You might remember the Hoopers from such vacations as: The US Virgin Islands, the annual Miami get-a-way, or Grape Stomp, Baby! They've been cast in supporting roles in nearly every vacation I go on, but THIS time, they were the main act.

Now normally I would never say something as cheesy as "celebrate a wedding," but in this case, it's quite literally true as the Hoopers actually got married the weekend after Thanksgiving with only Emily's Grandfather officiating and her Grandmother serving as witness. Why would they do that? Well, as it turned out Andy was getting transferred to Toronto in February and the couple already had a May wedding scheduled and didn't want to spend the time apart. Thus, this first weekend in May, we literally celebrated their wedding - and actually - it was dang cool.

Ever the faithful hosts, the Hoopers packed the weekend full of fun events for our socializing pleasure. From cosmic bowling, girls/boys night out, and Irish pub night on Friday to a black and white beach wedding on Saturday to a brunch send-off on Sunday. Yeah, it was pretty much one of the funnest things I've done.

I'd have to say the highlight (besides lounging in the sun all day prior to each evening o' awesomeness) was the post-ceremony "par-tay" (as Emily strictly informed me the reception was being so called). Not only was the guest party restricted to wearing only black and white (which nicely set off the bride and groom in crimson and gray), but paired with a warm evening on the beach with hot appetizers being brought repeatedly to you straight from the kitchen, a kickin' DJ, and an open bar....it just doesn't get much better than this.

So thanks Hoopers for including me in your kick-ass celebration of marriage!!