The wedding

Rolling Thunder was a mixture of relaxation and preparation on the morning of the wedding.

The day was quite pleasantly hot - probably a little over 100 degrees, so most spent some time in the pool. Last minute additions and preparations for the bean salad were made and with little fuss we all groomed ourselves up for the occasion.

A shuttle took us from the house, up the narrow, winding road to the venue - a private property owned by a wealthy benefactor who had donated a part of it for public use. In this section, irrigation had ensured quite lush vegetation/gardens appropriate for this dry climate, which included trees and succulents. Careful timing meant that the ceremony took place when trees shaded the area, though the fans provided were useful for keeping errant insects at bay.

The Mexican theme ran throughout the wedding, with a neat casual dresscode. As I review our photos I note few ties present for a brief period.

Naturally Tess and her 6 attendants looked absolutely gorgeous and a very meaningful ceremony saw her and Tony become husband and wife.

Marguerittas and Mexican food were provided in an abundant feast that followed, before music from the cover band introduced the new bride and groom in their dance, followed by Tess and her Dad. Unlike Australia, where the crowd usually joins in quite quickly, they each completed their dance to an entire song before they were joined and the party began.

Shortly after this point some of us 'oldies' decided to leave it to those of less vintage (who arrived home around 2am after a pretty good night from all accounts) and take a return shuttle back to Rolling Thunder, where we indulged in a quiet cuppa and chat before heading off to slumber.

How wonderful it was to be able to be here with family for this special, memorable occasion!