In “A Wedding in December,” Anita Shreve tells the compelling story of seven former high school friends who gather at an inn in Aspen for their youngest daughter Rosie’s whirlwind Christmas wedding. The White family, who have faced numerous challenges and disappointments since graduation, are all in dilemmas when it comes to romance. The story takes place in the snowy perfection of Aspen, where the White family is determined to celebrate the wedding, even as they hide a devastating secret: they are on the brink of divorce.
The bride’s parents, Maggie and Nick, are determined to celebrate, even as they hide a devastating secret: they are on the brink of divorce. After living apart for the last six months, the last thing they need is to be trapped together in an irresistibly romantic winter wonderland. Rosie’s older sister, Katie, is also dreading the wedding.
As the White family prepares to celebrate Rosie’s marriage, they face a series of challenges and disappointments. The snowy backdrop and Christmas season add extra depth to the story, as the characters are well-drawn and Shreve creates wonderful word pictures that provide elements of love, mystery, and redemption.
In conclusion, “A Wedding in December” is a captivating novel that showcases Anita Shreve’s exceptional ability to describe human relationships and the challenges faced by families. It is an absorbing, uplifting, and magical tale that is perfect for the holiday season and offers a unique perspective on family dynamics, love, romance, secrets, suffering, and redemption.
📹 Sarah Morgan On One Summer in Paris and A Wedding in December
We sat down with author Sarah Morgan to discuss reading and writing romance, as well as One Summer in Paris and her …
Does the groom kiss the bride?
The kiss. Next is the most exciting part of the ceremony. The officiant will say, “Kiss the bride.” Some grooms will kiss their brides and lift them off their feet. No matter what, it will be a magical moment and a must-have wedding photo.
Unity Ceremony. Some couples have a unity ceremony after the first kiss. Some unity ceremony ideas include mixing two colors of sand or water or candle lighting.
Closing Remarks. The officiant will say a few words to end the ceremony. For a religious ceremony, the officiant will bless the couple and their marriage.
Do you have to kiss at the end of a wedding?
Not a fan of PDA? You don’t have to kiss at the end of the ceremony, during the reception, or at any other point in your day. As a wedding celebrant and former registrar of marriage, I know that most couples kiss at the end of the ceremony. They don’t always say “You may now kiss your bride,” but still like to kiss at the end. Most couples usually don’t need any sort of prompt.
Many people still expect to see a kiss at the end of a wedding ceremony. But why? There are many theories about why the kiss is the accepted end of a wedding ceremony. Here are some of the most popular:
Who cleans up at the end of a wedding?
Brown says pros use strike crews to clean up after events. Event planners must bring their own strike crew to any venue. Vendors also send one. Remove your own rental items. This includes everything from lighting and decorations to flowers and rentals. As a planner, Brown says she usually handles the removal of stray stationery (like menus, programs, and place cards) and any decorative items she provided or organized, like linens that need to be returned to the rental company. Planners also oversee the rest of the strike. At hotels, the janitors take care of the restrooms. We still remove all the trash at the end of our events, but a cleaning crew comes in after the vendors leave to vacuum and reset the room.
If the event space is unusual, the strike crew must be too. The responsibilities often include cleaning. When we do events at unconventional venues, we bring in our own teams to service the restrooms during the event and then to sweep up and haul trash to the dumpsters after the event. This ensures that we have brought the venue back to its original condition.
What is the ending of wedding season?
Metts is killed, and Katie gets the building she wanted in exchange for her freedom. Afterwards, Katie goes to the season finale wedding with Stefan’s friends. As she gets to the car, it explodes. Oliver Lyttelton; Laurence Brown; Lilly Burns; Brooke Posch; Tony Hernandez; Toby Bruce; Chris Carey; Wedding Season is an action comedy romantic thriller streaming television series created by Oliver Lyttelton for the Star content hub of Disney. It was released on the Disney Star platform internationally, Star in Latin America and Hulu in the United States on September 8, 2022. Stefan objects to Katie McConnell’s wedding, even though they’ve been having an affair. Later, Stefan is arrested and learns that Katie’s new in-laws were poisoned at the reception and she has gone missing. Stefan goes on the run with Katie to find out the truth.
Is Katie the killer in Wedding season?
The corrupt police officer Matts killed the Delaney clan as part of the Block crime gang. Katie poisoned Hugo’s father, who received a double dose. Stefan leaves Katie after learning this. Katie kidnaps the daughter of a Block gangster to get the land back. Stefan is held at gunpoint to persuade Katie to turn herself in. After a shootout, Katie signs the deeds over to the gangster to bargain for their freedom. Does Hocus Pocus 2 live up to the original? Here’s what people are saying about the sequel.
What happens at the end of a wedding season?
The couple live happily ever after, ending the wedding season at their last wedding. They joke that they weren’t interested in marrying each other. In the last moments of the episode, a car bomb goes off. Stefan is shocked, and Katies fate is unknown. Want to know more? We want to know too! Disney and Hulu haven’t greenlit season two yet. This is normal after the first season. Stay tuned! We hope the gang comes back for another episode. Like this story? Sign up for our What to Watch newsletter to get the latest on the shows and films everyone is talking about.
What happens at the end of a wedding?
When does the bride and groom leave? A “send-off” happens right after the ceremony. Guests go through a line and wait outside the church or away from the ceremony site for the bride and groom. Then, guests throw things like rice, birdseed, confetti, petals, bubbles, etc. at the bride and groom.
A “Formal Exit” happens at the end of the reception. After the last song, guests take the bride and groom off on their honeymoon. Since it is at night, sparklers, glow sticks, lanterns, and fireworks are popular for a more formal and grand exit. How does a fake send-off work on a wedding day? A “fake send-off” happens midway through the reception. It’s just a fake! The couple doesn’t actually leave! Why would a bride and groom do this? If they have a fun exit planned and want most of their guests to be there, a “fake send-off” can be a great option (especially if the reception is late). Pausing the reception to “fake” a grand exit lets you take great pictures with your guests and lets those who need to leave feel like they’ve completed the day. You don’t have to book your photographer until the end of your reception. This saves money! Having an outline of events in your ceremony program or at your reception will entice people to stay until it’s time for the formal exit. If guests don’t know about the formal exit, they might leave.
Who takes the mother of the groom down the aisle?
For a non-religious wedding. If you don’t have a religious ceremony, there are other options. The groom might walk his mother down the aisle and to her seat in the front row, followed by the groom’s father. This lets the groom hug his parents before the wedding. The groom’s parents can walk down the aisle together, then the groom alone. Or the groom might walk down the aisle with both of his parents. If the groom and groomsmen were greeting guests, they could take their place at the altar before the processional begins. You can create your own tradition! You can enter the ceremony alone or together, symbolizing your journey as a couple.
What happens in the story a wedding in December?
Two high school friends get married. This couple has a second chance at love. They broke up and regretted it. This theme runs through the story for all the characters. Another story was about 9/11 and a war disaster. It was in a novel by one of the characters. Strange.
All these characters wanted what they couldn’t have and took it anyway. Most of the characters lacked morals. This was frustrating. Phrases like “visceral pain” and “luminous incandescence.”
What do the bride and groom do after they kiss?
You’re married! Everyone cheers as you kiss. Then what? What do you do after the first kiss? The officiant will announce you as married. Take it in and celebrate if you want. Next, if you’re the bride and you’ve handed off your bouquet, take it and your spouse’s hand and walk down the aisle. You’ll walk away from the ceremony for a few seconds before being congratulated. My biggest advice: Take it all in. This is a big moment. Celebrate, smile, and enjoy it.
📹 How NOT to Look Like A Tourist While Traveling To Europe This Summer
Sharing my top 10 tips to help you fit in and look less like a tourist when traveling in Europe this summer. I’ll show you what NOT to …
I like to bring canvas tote bags with multiple pockets and a zipper! Makes you look like you brought your laptop out to a cafe or just out for a day in general without looking touristy at all. The zipper also adds some level of security (which I will keep the zipper at the front rather than the back, a lot harder for sneaky hands to unzip
Great tips here and I love reading the comments. American lady here over 65 traveling to both Britain and Europe (London, Italy, Switzerland and France) next year with my equally “mature” sister. Safety is paramount for us as we are leaving the guys at home this time. When I’ve traveled solo to Europe years ago, fitting in as a “local” was very important for safety as well as not being “upcharged” when shopping if they knew I was American. I normally traveled in the winter so wore a long trench coat along with European shoes, wore a hat to cover my dyed hair and left most jewelry at home. I did practice a few phrases which assisted in getting help from locals if I needed information. I was fortunate enough to make several trips over both with groups and solo. My very first trip over was to London (I’d never been out of the US at this point) and I was traveling with friends that had also never traveled before. Riding on the underground the four of us were chatting away, laughing and having a grand time not realizing how we were about the only people having fun. A couple across from us were smiling and asked, “American?”.. we said yes. They told us we were easy to spot and they were a bit envious as they too wish they could have as much fun while out and about the way we did. I’ll never forget that. At this point in my life, and with my sweet sister, the goal is to be both comfortable, appropriately dressed for touring churches/museums and yet stylish. We’re planning on 3 weeks with only a carryon.
You really know your stuff! Well observed! Even if I believe that our cultural differences make life interesting I agree that blending in is often helpful and makes things easier. What I really like about your article is that you observe. You don’t judge. Everyone has their right to wear whatever they like and you second that. The only thing I would like to remark is that Europa isn’t the same everywhere, there are also major differences among the different countries. Styles and preferences differ a lot in the different places. In Germany many people are convinced that Italian and French women are the best dressed and stylish women in Europe. What is the most important thing is to be open minded towards new people, life styles and experiences, take a look around with an appreciative and positive attitude.
Hi, I am European and was curious. I agree like others mentioned that the style in the different countries in Europe differs a lot and attitude plays a major role. But I also have to say that your tips are very helpful. It is true that for example in countries like the Netherlands or Germany, outdoor wear, sneakers and backpacks are common, but if it’s too much of that, it is neither tasteful nor will it help you to blend in (unless you are on a hiking trip in the mountains or woods of course). Tone down with hair and makeup is indeed a good point. We actually keep it in average more simple with that and want to look natural. And indeed, if you travel to countries like France, Germany etc. big logos are not common. Anyway, Europe is very liberal and you will be also welcome if you look like an American tourist.
Thank you so much for this article!! I just started my venture as a digital nomad and I had to fit everything for 3 seasons, 2 continents and 3+ countries into a checked bag and a carryon. I wish I had seen this before I left, but I think I packed most of what you suggested – except for the shoes (I have a size 4 so hard to find….). Most of the “how to pack” articles are written by men and backpackers and their suggestions are basically all of your “no” list. lol 😂. The typically suggested wardrobes usually scream “tourist”. I love that you mentioned safety as a reason to blend. I also don’t want to spend my entire time away feeling like a frumpy, outdated old lady – I’d rather enjoy exploring in the cities I love!! I’ve been asked for directions 3 times since arriving in Montréal so I think I blend…. 😉. I’ll let you know about France…. Thanks again for the article!
I love this article. I have lived in France for 10 years, moving from GB. It is better to blend in for the reasons you said, pick pockets! Especially in Rome. Unless you are going to a sport resort for climbing or walking holidays then you should avoid wearing leggings or gym gear outside the gym (personally Ive never understood this regardless of location, but each to their own). I have become a hoarder of gorgeous scarves since moving here. French women seem to wear them a lot and all year round. Light, sheer, beautiful scarves to protect the neck and decolletage from aging in the harsh european summer. 🙂
I’m from south of France and I totally agree with this… except for the chunky birkenstock sandals, they are also a no-go for me 🤣 I would always prefer a slim-soled “tropézienne” style sandal. But south of France, especially Provence is not like the rest of France, and really not like Paris concerning style…
Essentials for carrying in a day bag would also include a water bottle, a book, and a sweater or scarf, also perhaps a snack (I often only ate two meals while in Europe). Your chic bag is not going to fit all of the things you need for going around a city all day on public transport or walking. I found a small one shoulder day pack that could easily swing around to the front for getting things out or in a crowd. It may have looked touristy but it was discrete and functional.
I lived in SE Asia for 14 years, am married to a German and live between the US and Germany. My #1 tip is to look at what local women are wearing and dress like them. You can watch YouTube articles to get an idea of what women wear in the country you are going to. You can also shop when you get to your destination, so that you blend in more. In Morocco I went to the souk (local market), bought a typical djellaba (long hooded caftan) and wore that while I was in the country. The biggest giveaways that you’re American (I am one btw) are loud talking and over-the-top behavior. Again, notice how local people behave and act accordingly – that’s one of the most interesting aspects of traveling, noticing how other cultures behave and dress.
Great, great article! Having lived here in Greece since August 2021, I’ve noticed that German and British tourists also stand out quite a bit, not just my fellow Americans. The Germans seem to really like their (quality) athletic gear and backpacks. The British also look similar to us, but even the upscale Brits manage to always have a bit of a loose-fitting wrinkled linen “I’m going on safari” look- It’s not bad, it’s just very specific and so stands out! I have become quite expert at spotting them. 🙂 And yes, we Americans are very easy to spot with our baseball hats and cargo or yoga pants, although I’ve noticed some Greek men out in the country wear baseball hats as well- but not once have I seen any Greek person over the age of 10 in sweatpants! Even the sweet special needs man who panhandles change from people in our village wears proper pants or jeans and a button-down shirt and a cool denim jacket. (He also busts out a navy blazer on holidays 🙂 .) One thing I would add to your list is the giant floral print casual dress. I only see my age and older tourist women wearing those big bold tropical-feel loose dresses without any shape. (I did see bold prints in silk worn by Greek women at a baptism,, but they were more upscale in design and shape.) The older Greek women are less likely to wear things that look boho or Hawaiian style and are more apt to wear slacks and jackets or sweaters, or more fitted skirts with a looser blouse, or sundresses/dresses in solids, and limit the super wild prints to their scarves.
I live in a country in Europe where just about anything goes and alot is over the top which I’m not a fan of. So, I would say that each country has their own style. I prefer classy and a little bit understated except maybe during the evenings, wherever I am. But I do understand what you’re saying and like this article.
Great article! As a European i approve your advices, they are applicable for some european countries, but not for all of them. It’s all on point for Mediterenenian countries, while it’s to some extend different in Nordic countries, where they prefer more casual look. Also, one thing here – people do wear flip-flops in Europe and we love it, but it’s only for beach/poolside. Active ware / leggings are here for kids, sports activites, when you walk your dog, or when you chilling on your chouch in front of tv, but not for walk around the city. Short sexy dresses are everywhere for nightout.